KidLit Picks Beloved Bedtime Stories

(photos shared by: me (@book.nerd.mommy), @chickadee.lit, @the.book.report, @alittlebookhabit, @bookbloom)

As evening approaches the sky bursts into colors then slowly darkens, the hues of the world are muted, peaceful nighttime sounds such as crickets chirping emerge and the pace of the world slows down. However, sometimes inside our homes the tranquility of nighttime isn’t always as keenly felt as it is outdoors because dinner dishes need washing, children may still be “wound-up”, bedtime routines can be stressful, and life is just messy sometimes.

That is why bedtime stories can be so magical and so essential. Some stories seem perfectly suited for bedtime and invite that calmness into your home. They can be comforting and lull your child in preparation for sleep. Such stories may be about the topic of bedtime itself, others have a serene color palate or a relaxing, swaying rhythm. Whatever the characteristics they possess, they can help a child transition to laying down for sleep.

–me (@book.nerd.mommy)

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Sleep Tight Farm: A Farm Prepares for Winter, by Eugenie Doyle and Becca Stadtlander, (shared by @book.nerd.mommy) “Have you ever noticed that some books are just more suited for bedtime and seem to have those magical qualities to lull your child in preparation for sleep?”

ABZZZ…, by Isabel Minhós Martins and Yara Kono (shared by @readingisourthing) “This book exceeded all expectations. It is indeed a magical sleep inducing story, best suited for kids aged 3-7 years.”

The Highest Mountain of Books in the World, by Rocio Bonilla (shared by @spiky_penelope) “It teaches us to persevere and remember that our imaginations have no limits, especially when it comes to living out our dreams.”

Smart About Sharks, by Owen Davey (shared by @afriendlyaffair) “No styling or fancy frame needed for this balls-out awesome nonfiction picture book.”

When The World Is Dreaming, by Rita Gray and Kenard Pak (shared by @the.book.report) “The illustrations are soothing and sweet.”

Max at Night, by Ed Vere (shared by @homegrownreader) “The moon seems to provide endless enchantment for young ones.”

Twenty Yawns, by Jane Smiley and Lauren Castillo (shared by @hereweeread) “A cute and charming bedtime story about family and friendship.”

Where Do Steam Trains Sleep at Night?, by Brianna Caplan Sayres and Christian Slade (shared by @astoryaday) “This book provides a springboard for children to explore their imaginations.”

Little Owl’s Night, by Divya Srinivasan and Kitten’s First Full Moon, by Kevin Henkes (shared by @chickadee.lit) “These two board books are a big hit with my minis.”

Be a Friend, by Salina Yoon (shared by @happily.ever.elephants) “Even without talking, the children finds ways to communicate and easily establish a special connection with one another.”

Guess How Much I Love You, by Sam McBratney and Anita Jeram (shared by @bookbairn) “Guess How Much I Love You is a perfect mix of peaceful storytelling set beside gloriously calm illustrations.”

At Night, by Helga Bansch (shared by @bookbloom) “Gentle repetition and airy illustrations make this a perfect bedtime read.”

Goodnight Moon, by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd (shared by @smallysbookshelf) “The repetition of familiar words and alternating black & white/color illustrations grabbed her interest immediately.”

Mummy’s Kisses, by Paula Clark and Lisa Stewart (shared by @fee_loves_) “A sweet and soothing tale following a day in the life of a baby echidna and her Mother, capturing the moments that kisses are needed most.”

Cowboy Baby, by Sue Heap (shared by @ohcreativeday) “The illustrations are bright and bold and it is a delightful read.”

One Snowy Night, by Nick Butterworth (shared by @alittlebookhabit) “It’s perfect for bedtime and one that we have returned to many times.”

Nana in the City, by Lauren Castillo (shared by @childrensbooksgalore) “Nana shows her grandson that the city is actually a wonderful place to live!”

*special thanks to Mel from @spiky_penelope for compiling this list

For more Bedtime Story recommendations check out my 20 Bedtime Stories for Little Sleepy-Heads list.