Planning a family vacation can be exciting, but managing a jet-lagged baby is a whole different ball game. Here are some friendly tips to help your little one adapt to a new time zone so that everyone can enjoy the trip.
Evaluate the Need for Schedule Adjustments
If your trip is just a quick jaunt across one or two time zones, you might want to stick to your baby’s regular sleep schedule. Instead of making drastic changes, consider shifting meal times and bedtimes by an hour in the direction of your travel. For instance, if you travel to a place an hour ahead, simply move dinner from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. local time, and adjust bedtime from 8 p.m. to 7 p.m. This approach is especially useful if your little one already has a good sleep routine in place.
Gradually Shift Baby’s Routine Before Your Trip
If you have a little more time on your hands, you can ease into the new time zone by slowly shifting your baby’s schedule in the weeks leading up to your departure. “Start by adjusting the routine by 20 minutes each day,” suggests Dr. Mia Johnson, a pediatrician and sleep consultant. For instance, if your baby usually sleeps at 8 p.m., try putting them down at 8:20 p.m. instead. Continuing this gradual adjustment can make the transition smoother for your child.
Opt for Night Flights
If you’re crossing multiple time zones and haven’t altered your baby’s schedule in advance, consider booking a night flight. Not only will your baby likely sleep throughout the journey, but it will also make things easier for you and your fellow passengers. Don’t forget to pack favorite sleep items like blankets or toys to help your child feel comfortable and cozy on the plane.
Immediately Adjust to Local Time Upon Arrival
Once you land, aim to operate on local time right away. This means feeding and napping your baby according to the local schedule, not the time zone you came from. If your baby typically naps at 1 p.m. back home, stick to that time in the new location. This will help reset their internal clock faster.
Traveling with a little one doesn’t have to be a hassle. For more insights on making parenting easier, check out this helpful article on Modern Family Blog.
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In short, while traveling with a baby can present challenges, adjusting their schedule gradually, choosing the right flight, and sticking to local time can ease the transition and make your trip enjoyable.
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