The following information was shared by the Fraser Health Authority with all school communities in their region. It contains information for parents and guardians regarding health and well-being considerations and what families can do in relation to the shift to permanent daylight saving time, or Pacific Time (PCT), in British Columbia.
Travel to and From School: Health and Well-being Considerations
During winter months, some students who walk, bike or take transit may travel in lower-light conditions. Taking steps to improve visibility and road safety can help support safer travel to school. However, students will benefit from more daylight during after-school travel and extracurricular activities.
- Help children choose well-lit routes with sidewalks and designated crossings.
- Encourage children to wear reflective or high-visibility clothing and use a flashlight when travelling during darker morning hours.
- Remind children to use designated crossings, scan traffic, and make sure vehicles have stopped before crossing.
- Drivers should use extra caution when driving near schools, crosswalks, intersections and shared pathways, be aware of one’s surroundings and refrain from cell phone use, make eye contact, and shoulder check before turning or changing direction, travel at slow speeds and stop completely at stop signs and crosswalks.
- Permanent daylight saving time will provide an extra hour of daylight in the afternoon, creating additional opportunities for outdoor activity, recreation and social connection.
What Families Can Do: Supporting Well-being and Healthy Sleep
Many of us will start our mornings with darker skies. Reduced morning light can affect sleep, alertness and mood, particularly among adolescents, whose biological clocks naturally favour later sleep and wake times.
To support sleep and well-being:
- Spend time outdoors during daylight hours whenever possible.
- Encourage physical activity and social connection through after-school programs and activities.
- Maintain consistent bedtimes and wake-up times.
- Turn off screens at least one hour before bedtime, as evening screen use can make it harder to fall asleep.
Encouraging healthy sleep habits, such as maintaining consistent bedtimes and wake-up times, will remain important to support learning, mental well-being, and healthy development.
