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As we approach the onset of daylight saving time 2025, many people are already preparing for the semi-annual ritual of changing the clocks. Are you ready to spring forward? This year, daylight saving time begins on Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 2 a.m. local time, when we’ll set our clocks ahead by one hour. While this change brings longer evenings and more daylight, it also raises a number of questions about what to expect.
Below, we will address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding the upcoming time adjustment:
- When does daylight saving time start in 2025?
The start date for daylight saving time is March 9, 2025. Clocks will move forward one hour at 2 a.m., which means you may lose an hour of sleep if you're not mindful of your bedtime the night before.
- Do we gain or lose an hour of sleep?
When clocks spring forward, we lose one hour of sleep. If you typically go to bed at 10 p.m., that will feel like 11 p.m. after the clock change!
- How long does daylight saving time last?
Daylight saving time lasts until November 2, 2025, when clocks will fall back one hour, marking the end of this seasonal time adjustment.
- What is daylight saving time and its history?
Daylight saving time has been around since 1918, when it was implemented to make better use of daylight and conserve energy during World War I. Over the decades, multiple legislative attempts have been made to abolish or modify it, but it has remained a staple of U.S. timekeeping.
- Will daylight saving time be made permanent?
In 2022, there was an attempt to pass the Sunshine Protection Act, which sought to make daylight saving time permanent across the U.S. While the bill had support, it remains stalled in Congress.
- Is it daylight saving time or daylight savings time?
The correct term is "daylight saving time"—without the 's' at the end. This is a common misconception.
- Which states do not participate?
Hawaii and Arizona (excluding the Navajo Nation) are the only states that do not observe daylight saving time. This also applies to several U.S. territories, including Puerto Rico and Guam.
- What are the potential health risks?
Health professionals have indicated that the transition to daylight saving time can disrupt natural sleep patterns, which may lead to increased health risks, including strokes and heart attacks. To mitigate these effects, experts suggest gradually adjusting your sleep schedule ahead of the time change.
- How can parents help children adjust?
Parents can help their children adapt to the change by maintaining a consistent bedtime routine, encouraging daytime physical activity, and limiting screen time before bed. Creating a dark, quiet sleep environment can also aid the adjustment.
In conclusion, while the transition to daylight saving time can seem daunting, being prepared can help the adjustment go smoothly. Mark your calendars for March 9, 2025, and make sure to set your clocks ahead to fully enjoy those bright spring evenings!
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