Ah, the time change. That glorious day when we “fall back” and gain an extra hour of sleep—or at least, that’s the theory. For parents, though, it’s a bit like watching a toddler realize they’ve dropped their favorite snack. But here’s a little secret: this time change can actually be your secret weapon in sleep training. Yep, you heard that right. As the sun starts setting earlier, it’s like Mother Nature herself is giving you a helping hand. Let’s dive into why the time change is about to make your life a whole lot easier—and maybe even a little bit funnier.
The Sun: Your New Sleep Training Sidekick
Remember those summer nights when the sun refused to set, and you found yourself pleading with your child to go to bed while it was still light out? That’s all about to change. As we edge closer to winter, the sun clocks out earlier, which means your little one’s internal clock is naturally inclined to wind down sooner. It’s as if the universe is saying, “Hey, let’s get this kid to bed!”
The earlier sunset aligns perfectly with the principles of sleep training. When it gets dark, melatonin (the “sleepy” hormone) levels rise, signaling that it’s time to start winding down. You’re no longer battling the brightness of summer evenings; instead, you can embrace the cozy, dimly-lit evenings that scream bedtime.
Source: For more on how melatonin affects sleep, check out this article from the Sleep Foundation.
Time Change: Your Sleep Schedule’s New BFF
You know how everyone dreads the time change because it “messes up” their schedule? Well, this year, it’s going to do the opposite for your little one. When we turn the clocks back an hour, you have a golden opportunity to reset your child’s sleep schedule without them even noticing. It’s like a sneaky parenting hack that no one tells you about!
If your baby has been waking up too early or going to bed too late, now’s your chance to shift their sleep schedule in your favor. By gradually adjusting their bedtime and wake-up time by just 10-15 minutes each day leading up to the time change, you’ll effortlessly glide into a new, more manageable routine. And if you’re just starting sleep training? Perfect timing! Use this natural shift to establish new patterns that stick.
Source: Learn more about adjusting sleep schedules from the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
The Power of Routine: Now with Bonus Darkness
As any sleep consultant will tell you, routine is king when it comes to sleep training. With the sun setting earlier, you can easily create a bedtime routine that signals to your baby or toddler that it’s time to wind down. The earlier darkness helps your child’s body naturally get sleepy, which makes establishing a routine (bath, book, bed—perhaps with some calming lullabies) much smoother. And since the world outside is already doing half the work for you, why not take advantage of it?
Source: The importance of a bedtime routine is highlighted by the Mayo Clinic.
Embrace the Cozy Vibes
Let’s be honest—fall is the perfect time to lean into those cozy vibes. Think soft pajamas, warm baths, and dim lighting that helps transition your child from playtime to bedtime. This seasonal change is the perfect backdrop for sleep training success. So, put away the sunscreen and pull out the fuzzy blankets; it’s time to get cozy and get some sleep.
Ready to Tackle Sleep Training Like a Pro?
The time change isn’t just about resetting clocks—it’s about resetting routines. If you’re ready to take advantage of this natural shift and get your little one’s sleep on track, Rocky Mountain Sleeping Baby is here to help. Our remote sleep consultants are experts at guiding you through the sleep training process, no matter where you are. Let’s turn that extra hour into a well-deserved rest for the whole family.
Need some help navigating the time change and sleep training? Contact Rocky Mountain Sleeping Baby today and let’s get your family the rest you deserve! Book your consultation today!
