Gentle Ways to Help Babies and Toddlers Adjust to Daylight Savings Time

Twice a year, the shift in the clocks disrupts the natural rhythm of our days. While adults might struggle for a few days, young children—who thrive on consistency—often feel the effects even more deeply. From a Waldorf perspective, we can approach this transition with warmth, rhythm, and trust in the child’s innate ability to adapt with gentle guidance.

Understanding the Challenge

Young children live deeply in their senses, attuned to the rising and setting of the sun and the predictable rhythm of their days rather than the numbers on the clock. When we “spring ahead,” bedtime and wake-up times suddenly feel an hour earlier, which can leave little ones overtired - or wired- in the evening or waking too early in the morning. Rather than forcing an abrupt adjustment, we can guide them gently into the new rhythm with a gradual shift and steady, predictable transitions.

1. Shift the Daily Rhythm Gradually

One of the gentlest ways to help your child adjust is by moving their daily schedule in small increments—just 15 minutes at a time—over the course of several days. For example:

If bedtime is usually 7:00 PM, on the first night after the time change, put your child down at 7:45 “new time” (which still feels like 7:00 to them).

The next night or maybe two, shift to 7:30, then 7:15, until you arrive at the new 7:00 bedtime.

Apply the same small shifts to meals, nap times, and wake-up times.

This slow transition gives your child’s body time to adjust without the shock of a full-hour shift all at once.

2. Use Natural Light to Reset the Internal Clock

Morning light is the most powerful tool for adjusting to a new time. Spend time outside in the early part of the day—having breakfast near a sunny window, taking a morning walk, or playing outside after waking up. This exposure to natural light helps reset the body's internal rhythm.

In the evening, dim lights earlier and avoid artificial lighting as much as possible. Candlelight at dinner, a warm bath, and a softly lit bedtime story can ease the transition to sleep even if it still feels a bit early to them.

3. Hold Firm to Predictable, Soothing Transitions

Transitions between activities—especially moving toward sleep—become even more important during this shift. Keep bedtime and naptime routines steady, offering the same songs, stories, and rituals your child finds comforting. Reassure them with a predictable flow to the day, even if the time on the clock is shifting.

A bedtime song, a warm cup of chamomile tea, or a foot rub with lavender oil can all become signals that it is time to rest.

4. Trust the Process

Even with a mindful approach, some children will take longer to adjust than others. Try to stay patient and steady, knowing that within a week or two their natural rhythm will sync with the new time. Trust in their ability to adapt, and offer them the security of a calm and unhurried presence as they navigate the shift.

Observe your child, and keep their sleep, and your family rhythms and needs at the heart of this transition time- not the clock. It may even mean you run late or skip a few appointments- that’s ok!

By approaching Daylight Savings with a sense of rhythm and warmth, we can help ease the transition for our little ones, guiding them gently into this new season of light.