There’s nothing quite like snuggling up with your child and reading them a bedtime story. It’s a time-honored tradition that has been passed down through generations. But with so many bedtime stories to choose from, it can be hard to decide which ones are the best or even how to get started. Heres a little more info about the books you chose and why bedtime stories should be added to your bedtime routine.
1. The benefits of bedtime stories
Most children love bedtime stories, and there are many benefits to reading stories to your child before they go to sleep. Bedtime stories can help your child wind down and prepare for sleep and can also promote bonding and closeness between you and your child. Reading stories can also help develop your child's imagination and can be a fun and relaxing way to end the day.
So if you're looking for a way to promote closeness with your child, help them wind down before bed, and develop their imagination, consider reading bedtime stories. It's a fun and easy way to provide your child with all sorts of benefits.
2. How to pick bedtime stories to read
It's bedtime, but your little one just won't go to sleep. So what can you do? One option is to read them a bedtime story. But with so many different stories out there, it can be tough to decide which one to choose.
But the truth is, it is more about your child and their personality than the "perfect book." As the saying goes, "One book is not perfect for every person, but every person has a perfect book." So, when deciding what books to read at bedtime, lean on your child's personality, interests, and hobbies. Does your child love unicorns or fairies? Never Let a Unicorn Scribble is a great option! Or maybe your child is all about space. Then try If I Were an Astronaut.
The main thing you want to focus on is that the books you chose have positive, calming endings. For younger children, lyrical books like Goodnight Moon are great options, but as kids get older, let their interest guide you in the books you pick.
3. Tips for making bedtime stories a part of your routine
The end of the day can be challenging for parents, especially when both you and your child are tired. So here are some tips to make bedtime stories a part of your nightly routine:
Choose a book that is appropriate for your child's age and interests.
Make sure the book is short enough to hold your child's attention.
If you're reading aloud, use different voices for different characters.
Take your time and let your child ask questions along the way.
Make the story interactive by asking your child to predict what will happen next.
End the story on a positive note to help your child feel calm and sleepy.
5. How bedtime stories can help you bond with your child
At the end of the day, both you and your child are likely to be tired. However, this is the perfect time to snuggle up and read together. Over the course of the day, your child has probably been at school while you have been working. With the hustle and bustle of daily life, it can be easy to forget to spend time with your child. Bedtime is the perfect opportunity to remind them that you love and care for them, even when you are busy. Make it a point to read a book together every day.
3 ways to bond with your child:
1. Snuggle - Cuddles and snuggles release endorphins and other brain chemicals that create a sense of peace and relaxation for kids.
2. Read positive books that put them at ease - While murder mysteries may be fun to read, find calming and relaxing storybooks for your child to read at bedtime to encourage sleep, not chase it away.
3. Talk about the story - After the book, take a few minutes to ask your child how they feel or what they think about the book. Encourage conversation.