Daylight Saving Time Ends Sunday
At 2 a.m. on Sunday, most of America will set clocks back one hour as it returns from daylight saving time to standard time. Daylight saving time, which started on March 9 this year, moves clocks forward by one hour.
History and Public Opinion
The practice of daylight saving time began in 1918 to save fuel during World War I. Over time, support for the system has declined. According to a recent AP-NORC poll, 47% of adults oppose daylight saving time, while the rest favor it.
Currently, all states observe daylight saving time except for Arizona and Hawaii, which will not change their clocks on Sunday.
Expert Tips to Ease the Transition
Kenneth Lee, a neurologist and medical director of the University of Chicago Medicine’s Sleep Center, suggests gradually adjusting to the time change:
- Begin moving your bedtime 15 to 20 minutes earlier a few nights before Sunday.
- Set clocks back on Saturday evening to get used to the new time in advance.
- Adjust meal times and coffee intake to match the new schedule, but avoid extra caffeine to not disrupt sleep.
Advice for Families with Young Children
Lee, who has two young boys, recommends parents use the same gradual approach for children — setting clocks early and shifting bedtime back gradually over several nights.
“People should begin pushing back their bedtime by 15 to 20 minutes a few nights before Sunday,” Lee said. “Change your clock on Saturday evening, so that way you are acclimated to it.”
Author's summary: Gradually adjusting bedtime and scheduling changes before the clock falls back can reduce disruption as most Americans end daylight saving time this Sunday.