"Spring forward" takes place annually on the second Sunday in March at 2:00 AM, although most people will change their clocks before they go to bed on Saturday night. It can take a couple of weeks for our bodies to adjust to the time change. To make it easier on your young children, move bedtime 15 minutes earlier each night starting on the Thursday before the change. This won't entirely solve the problem, but it could help.
Daylight Saving Time (DST) was first used during World War I to save electricity, and was expanded during the 1970s energy crisis. There is some debate over whether or not to continue Daylight Saving Time. However, if we were to stop, it would really help me out with bedtime in the summer and avoiding that “But it’s not even dark yet, Mom!” argument.
In addition to changing the time on your clocks, this weekend can serve as a reminder to take care of these semi-annual household responsibilities:
In addition to changing the time on your clocks, this weekend can serve as a reminder to take care of these semi-annual household responsibilities:
- Change all the batteries in your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. - Review and practice fire escape and family disaster plans.
- Inspect headlights, tail lights, and brake lights on all your vehicles.
- Inspect tires, brakes, and reflectors on bicycles and scooters.
- Turn and flip your mattresses.
- Check your first aid kits, replacing expired items and restocking items that have been used.
- Schedule needed doctor's and/or dentist's appointments.
So, on Saturday night, before you go to bed, “spring ahead” an hour and remember that your kids are probably going to get up at the same time as usual, so go to bed early and get ready for whatever surprises those kiddos have in store.
