The clocks go back this Sunday 25^th October and many of us will be rubbing our hands with glee at the prospect of an extra hour in bed. Not if you’re a parent of a young baby or toddler though. Try explaining ‘daylight savings time’ to a little one!

But don’t worry Mamas, here are some helpful tips that can make the transition easier:

• Keep up a calming bedtime routine – quiet time, a bath, story time or baby massage all help to put your little one in the mood for sleep. Dim the lights, lower the TV, think C-A-L-M.

• In the week leading up to the clock change start putting your baby to bed 15 minutes later each evening. This will help them to adjust gradually so (hopefully!) they will wake that little bit later in the morning. You may also need to adjust nap/feeding times accordingly.

• For older babies and toddlers, fresh air and outdoor play can help to tire them out so try and get them out for a little activity every day – weather permitting of course.

• Ditch the devices! TV and electronic devices can overstimulate your little one so switch these off at least an hour before bedtime.

• Make sure the room is dark enough for your little one to sleep. If there is excess lighting outside from street lights etc, blackout blinds can help.

• Above all, be flexible. A baby’s sleep routine won’t change overnight but within a few days, they will adjust.