How to get your children to sleep for an extra hour when the clocks go back – starting NOW
WHEN the clocks go back some parents might find it difficult to change their children's sleep pattern.
Parents can find it difficult to adjust when the clocks change
How to stop your children from waking up an hour early after the clocks change
Experts advise that you gradually delay your child’s routine around two weeks before the clocks change, setting bedtimes 15 minutes later every few days.
This will prepare your child ahead of the clocks change and encourage them to wake later too.
Nap times and meal times should also shift to help regulate your child’s circadian rhythm.
How to create a healthy sleep environment for your children
A healthy sleep environment is key to a good night’s sleep all year round.
It is important to keep bedrooms dark, using a night light if necessary.
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Create a routine with stories and bathtime
Ensure that there are no exciting stimuli that could distract your child from sleeping – toys, TVs and computers should be kept in a separate room where possible.
A regular and relaxing bedtime regime that lasts around 30 minutes will help your child’s routine. Try a warm bath and a book – and don’t cave to “just one more story”.
When do the clocks go back?
The clocks will go back an hour on Sunday October 30 at 2am.
Once your child's bedtime has changed their morning routine should also shift
Why do the clocks change?
Over the summer the UK moves its clocks forward to British Summer Time (BST) to take advantage of longer days and lighter evenings.
At the end of Autumn, the clock reverts back to Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), bringing darker evenings but brighter mornings.