Daylight saving time begins at 2 am on Sunday, November 1st, 2026, which means you'll want to set the clocks back one hour before bed on Saturday night, Halloween! Every parent knows the truth: Fall daylight savings time a sleep-giving, schedule-wrecking, cranky-kid-inducing situation. Well, perhaps not cranky, since they get an extra hour of sleep, which will likely be needed after all of the candy and Halloween festivities!
Yes, days will now be shorter with less sunlight. However, it is a good adjustment to the changing weather.
Why Do We Even Have Daylight Saving Time? (And Can We Opt Out?)
Daylight saving time (DST) was first introduced during World War I as a way to conserve energy by shifting daylight hours later into the evening. The idea? More natural light = less electricity used for lighting.
But does DST actually save energy today? Maybe. Maybe not. Studies are mixed
If you’re jealous of parents whose kids aren’t affected by the time change, you’ll want to look at Hawaii and most of Arizona, where DST isn’t observed. U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and Guam? Also blissfully time-change-free.
Meanwhile, the rest of us are left fumbling with oven clocks and microwaves and analog watches (do those still exist? YES they do! Therefore, get ready to change those all back as well!
How to Help Kids Adjust to the Time Change
Let’s be real: Kids do not care about clocks. Their tiny internal schedules don’t just shift because we say so. The real issue with falling back is that their bodies still think it’s an hour later, It will take time to adjust, enjoy the Sunday and slow down!!
Natural light tells our bodies when to sleep and wake up, so use it to your advantage, especially for younger children.
In the morning: Open the blinds, let in sunlight, and get outside early to help reset their internal clocks.
In the evening: Dim the lights an hour before bed to signal it’s time to wind down.
Within 3-5 days, most kids will adjust (and you’ll start feeling like a functional human again).
Daylight Saving Time Checklist: Don’t Forget These Tasks!
DST isn’t just about moving clocks — it’s also a great reminder to check other important household safety and maintenance items.
Things to do the weekend you change your clocks:
- Update all clocks — especially the ones that don’t change automatically (microwave, stove, coffee maker, car).
- Change the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Check your car’s safety features, including tire pressure, brake lights, and headlights.
- Review emergency plans and practice fire escape routes (especially with little ones).
- Inspect kids’ bikes and scooters — make sure brakes and helmets are in good condition.
- Flip or rotate mattresses (because, let’s be honest, it’s been a while).
- Restock the first aid kit and check the expiration dates on medications.
- Schedule doctor's and other important appointments within the next 6 months
