Emma Gabriel ’27
Mikayla Kouble ’27
EE Staff Writers
Every spring, clocks all around the world move forward one hour as Daylight Saving Time begins. While some may see this as a negative as they will be losing one hour of sleep, this time change actually brings several positive benefits to students as spring approaches. From immense amounts of outdoor activities to the positive effects of sunlight, this subtle time change can create many advantages for all.
One of the most obvious effects of Daylight Savings Time is the increase in daylight during the afternoon and evening. This additional daylight encourages students to spend more time outside, participate in sports, clubs and other activities.
With the start of spring sports such as baseball, lacrosse and track, many students are becoming more physically active, which benefits both their health and overall well being. According to The Great Lakes Psychology Group, “Longer daylight hours encourage outdoor activities, which are known to improve mental health. Sunlight exposure boosts serotonin, a brain chemical linked to improved mood and a sense of calm.”
Teachers often notice that students who stay active outside of school return to class feeling more energized and focused. In addition, these sports help bring the school community together, as students, teachers, and families attend games and events to show their support and build school spirit. Because it stays light later, people may find it easier to attend these activities which encourages greater participation. Whether it is going for a walk, playing a sport, or participating in an outdoor activity, the extra daylight provides many benefits for students, supporting their physical, mental and emotional well-being. Daylight Savings marks the start of spring and ultimately a more positive and exciting time!
Another positive impact of Daylight Saving Time would be the increased exposure in sunlight itself for students. One major advantage is the increased levels in vitamin D.
According to The National Library of Medicine, “Sunlight is unarguably the most optimal way to obtain vitamin D plus numerous other benefits”. Some of these benefits include a strengthened immune system, lower risk of disease, and other positives that vitamin D can bring. Another benefit that brings positivity to the physical health of students would be the fact that sunlight helps individuals get into a better sleep schedule. The increased sunlight can encourage a healthier circadian rhythm, leading to more consistent and restorative sleep.
Continuing on, one more positive that the sunlight brings is the fact that it makes the afternoon feel longer. By the sunlight being out until later, it creates a refreshing sense of motivation for individuals. This helps students feel more productive, and ultimately have more success within their school work, activities, and other responsibilities as they feel less rushed to get everything done. This increased length of the afternoon can allow people to “spring” forward, and even feel a sense of relief. As the days get brighter, so does the emotions and productivity of students. All in all, the added sunlight from the change of Daylight Saving Time can create important physical, mental, and emotional improvements for students and as the days get brighter, so do their successes.
As the time change signals the approach of spring and the final months of the school year, students and teachers feel more motivated and excited about upcoming events that the spring provides. Although adjusting to the time change can be challenging at first, the longer days often bring positive opportunities for schools. From gaining increased vitamin D in the sun, to improved mental health and community events, the extra daylight creates a more balanced and positive environment for students and teachers. As spring continues and days grow longer, students are given more time to be active, productive, and engaged both in and out of the classroom. Ultimately, Daylight Savings Time does more than just change the clock an hour ahead, it helps set students up for greater success, well being and a brighter end to the school year.
Featured image: Pavel Ševela, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons