Daylight Saving Time Ends Sunday: Key Information and Tips
Most of America will set clocks back one hour at 2 a.m. Sunday, marking the end of daylight saving time and the return to standard time. This shift, which began on March 9, 2025, moves clocks forward by an hour each year to make better use of daylight.
Historical Background
Daylight saving time was first implemented in 1918 as a fuel-saving measure during World War I. Over time, public support for the practice has decreased. A recent AP-NORC poll found that less than half of adults favor daylight saving time, with 47% opposing it.
Current Observance
- All states except Arizona and Hawaii observe daylight saving time.
- These states will adjust their clocks on Sunday to standard time.
How to Adjust Smoothly
Kenneth Lee, a neurologist and medical director of the University of Chicago Medicine’s Sleep Center who specializes in sleep medicine, advises a gradual approach to the time change.
“People should begin pushing back their bedtime by 15 to 20 minutes a few nights before Sunday,” Lee said. “They should also change their clock on Saturday evening, so that way you are acclimated to it.”
Lee suggests aligning other daily routines, such as meal times and coffee consumption, with the adjusted bedtime. However, he cautions against increasing caffeine intake, as it could harm sleep quality.
Advice for Parents
For parents with young children, Lee recommends a similar incremental shift.
“Change the clock early and push bedtime back several nights prior to minimize disruption,” he said, sharing his own experience with his two young sons.
Summary
Gradually adjusting bedtime and daily schedules ahead of the change can help ease the transition when daylight saving time ends Sunday.
Author’s summary: Gradually shifting bedtime and daily habits before clocks fall back can reduce sleep disruption and improve adjustment to the end of daylight saving time.