Moving time zones- Advice wanted

[ClimberChick]

We have a 13 week LO and we're due to move to california in a few weeks which will result in a 8 hour time difference. Basically I'm after suggestions on how to help her adapt and what will the most likely consequences/problems be on her routine. Also any tips will be much appreciated. I now you can never be prepared when it comes to babies, but no harm in trying

Did want to leave your post unanswered ClimberChick.

Although it wasn't a permanent move, we travelled back to the UK from Vietnam (where our DD was born) for Christmas when she was about 14 weeks old. At that time of year there's a 7 hour time difference.

We found that she slept most of the (overnight) flight and woke a bit before breakfast was served (i.e. about 3am UK time). We then tried to ensure that she didn't sleep longer than about 1 hour at a time during the whole of the first day (her default sleep time then was usually about 30 mins). Despite the cold, we took her outside lots - we were probably lucky that it was bright. I'm guessing that shouldn't be a problem in California.

After a couple of days she was over it. It was easy, really.

So, lots of outside light, try not to sleep too long in the day, minimal interaction at night and - if possible - a few days where you both can focus on baby would be my advice.

Also coming back to Vietnam after 1 month, she recovered from jetlag quicker than me! I suspect this summer, when she'll be 1, won't be so easy...

Good luck with the move!

Thank you

We took our 11 week old to California in February and it wasn't bad at all. It was a day flight and I let him stay awake/sleep as usual. The first night was pretty awful - his sleeping patterns were completely on British time rather than US time and we had to take it in turns to sit with him so the other person could sleep. But the next night was much better and the third was better still. Within a week, he was back in his usual routine.

Good luck! We may be moving out there this year so see you there!