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This Sunday's daylight saving time change can be a challenging adjustment for families, especially young children. While adults may grumble about losing an hour of sleep, experts suggest that moving the clocks forward is generally easier on kids than falling back. With some preparation and patience, parents can help their children transition smoothly without tantrums or prolonged bedtime struggles. Experts recommend maintaining a consistent bedtime routine and using natural light to reset the body's internal clock. Additionally, engaging in physical activities during the day can tire kids out, making it easier for them to settle down at night.

The Power of Routine: Creating a Calm Bedtime Environment

Maintaining a consistent bedtime routine is crucial for helping children adjust to the time change. Familiar rituals signal to a child’s brain that it’s time to relax and prepare for sleep. Whether it's a warm bath, reading a story, or listening to soothing music, these activities create a calming atmosphere that promotes better sleep. Parents should continue these routines even after the clocks change to ensure a smoother transition.

Children thrive on predictability, and sticking to a regular bedtime schedule helps regulate their internal clocks. Sleep specialists emphasize that consistency is key. For instance, if your child usually goes to bed at 8 p.m., aim to keep this time as close as possible post-time change. Introducing small adjustments gradually over a few days before the switch can also ease the transition. For example, starting a few nights before, put your child to bed 10-15 minutes earlier each night until they are accustomed to the new time. This gradual shift minimizes disruptions and helps maintain a peaceful bedtime environment.

Leveraging Light and Activity for Better Sleep

Natural light plays a vital role in resetting the body’s internal clock. Exposure to sunlight in the morning helps signal to the body that it’s time to wake up, while dimming lights and reducing screen time in the evening encourages melatonin production for better sleep. If your child finds it difficult to wind down because it’s still light outside, consider using blackout curtains to create a darker sleeping environment.

Physical activity during the day can also contribute to better nighttime rest. Encouraging outdoor play, walks, or other energy-burning activities ensures that children are physically tired by bedtime. One parent shared her strategy of keeping her kids active throughout the day, including visits to local playgrounds and indoor play areas, which helped them fall asleep more easily. Even if some children take longer to adapt, staying consistent with these practices will help them settle into the new schedule within a week. If sleep issues persist, consulting a pediatrician can provide additional support and address any underlying concerns.

In a recent development, the Washington State Legislature has faced criticism for not passing legislation that would have provided free breakfast and lunch to students in public schools. This decision has drawn concern from health advocates and educators, emphasizing the ongoing issue of food insecurity among children. The American Heart Association expressed disappointment over the failure to pass House Bill 1404 and Senate Bill 5352, which aimed to ensure equitable access to nutritious meals for all students in Washington. With one in eight children facing food insecurity, these bills were seen as a crucial step toward supporting families and improving student well-being.

Details of the Legislation and Its Impact

On March 6, 2025, in the heart of Seattle, the American Heart Association issued a statement regarding the unsuccessful passage of two significant bills—House Bill 1404 and Senate Bill 5352. These measures were intended to provide no-cost breakfast and lunch to students across Washington's public schools. Dr. Mary Ann Bauman, the immediate past president of the American Heart Association for the Western States Region Board, highlighted the importance of these bills. During the pandemic, countless children benefited from free school meals, ensuring they remained nourished and ready to learn. However, with the failure to pass this legislation, many children may now face challenges accessing adequate nutrition.

The proposed bills would have addressed the financial burden on families by eliminating complex and often confusing enrollment procedures for school meals. This initiative was designed to offer much-needed relief to Washington families, particularly those struggling with food insecurity. According to Dr. Bauman, approximately one in eight children in Washington currently faces food insecurity, making the passage of these bills even more critical. Despite the setback, the American Heart Association remains committed to advocating for policies that support the health and well-being of children and families.

From a broader perspective, providing free meals in schools is not only a matter of nutrition but also a means to enhance educational outcomes. Well-fed students are better equipped to focus on their studies, leading to improved academic performance and overall success. The failure to pass these bills underscores the need for continued efforts to address food insecurity and support vulnerable populations within the state.

As the debate continues, it is clear that the well-being of Washington’s children should remain a top priority. Advocates and policymakers must work together to find alternative solutions that ensure all students have access to the resources they need to thrive. The American Heart Association’s stance reflects a commitment to creating healthier communities where every child can grow up strong and healthy.