As the leaves turn golden and the evenings grow cooler, one important date looms on the horizon—the clock change in October. This is the time when we "fall back" one hour, marking the end of daylight saving time and the start of shorter winter days. While it gives us an extra hour of sleep, it can also throw off routines, particularly for families with young children.
Here's everything you need to know about preparing your family for the seasonal time shift, along with some fun facts and helpful tips to ease the transition.
Why Do We Change the Clocks?
Daylight saving time was introduced to make better use of daylight during the longer days of summer. The idea is to shift one hour of daylight from the morning to the evening. In October, we revert to standard time, moving the clocks back one hour, which means darker evenings but brighter mornings—at least for a little while.
Fun Fact: Who Thought of Daylight Saving Time?
The concept of daylight saving time was first proposed by Benjamin Franklin in 1784. He suggested it as a way to conserve candles! However, it wasn’t implemented until World War I as a way to save energy.
When Do the Clocks Change in 2024?
This year, clocks will go back one hour at 2:00 AM on Sunday, October 27th. Remember: "Spring forward, fall back," so in October, we gain an extra hour of sleep. But that shift in time can affect sleep patterns and daily routines, especially for children who rely on consistency.
Top Tips for a Smooth Transition
- Prepare Gradually Start adjusting your family’s routine a few days before the clock change. Try moving bedtime earlier by 10-15 minutes each night. This gradual shift can help minimize the impact on your children's sleep schedule and prevent crankiness.
- Keep the Routine Consistent Consistency is key when it comes to young children. Try to keep meal times, naps, and bedtimes consistent in the days leading up to and after the time change. Even though the clock changes, sticking to your usual routine will help your family adapt more smoothly.
- Get Outside in the Morning Exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate your body’s internal clock. On the Sunday of the clock change, try to spend time outside in the morning, especially with the kids. This will help them adjust to the new time and reset their internal rhythms.
- Limit Screen Time in the Evening Light from screens (like tablets, TVs, and phones) can interfere with your ability to fall asleep. With the darker evenings, encourage your family to wind down with books, puzzles, or other quiet activities rather than screen time.
- Use Blackout Curtains While mornings will be lighter after the time change, you may notice it gets brighter earlier than your usual wake-up time. If you or your children are light-sensitive, consider investing in blackout curtains to prevent early wake-ups.
Fun Fact: Not Everyone Changes Their Clocks
While many countries follow daylight saving time, there are some places that don’t participate. Hawaii and most of Arizona in the U.S. don’t change their clocks. Some countries near the equator, where daylight hours don’t vary much throughout the year, also don’t use daylight saving time.
Make It Fun for the Kids
For children, the clock change can feel confusing. Here are a few ways to make it a fun and educational experience for them:
- Time-Related Crafts: Create DIY clocks together. Use this as an opportunity to teach older children about how time works and the importance of routines.
- Story Time: Read a story about seasons changing, outer space, or time travel!
- Time-Change Treat: Celebrate the extra hour with a family treat! Plan a special breakfast or a fun movie night. Remind the kids that the time shift means one extra hour to sleep or play.
Fun Fact: Animals Don’t Follow the Clock
Our furry friends don’t know when the clocks change, and they often stick to their routine no matter what the time says. You might notice your pets still expecting food or walks at the same time, even after the clocks go back!
The October clock change is a signal that winter is on its way. While adjusting to the shift can take a few days, with a little preparation and these family-friendly tips, you can make the transition smooth and even fun. Use the opportunity to spend quality time with your family, reset routines, and get ready for the cozy months ahead.
Remember, this year the clocks go back on October 27th. Enjoy the extra hour of sleep and the chance to embrace the new season!