Bedtime stories are a wonderful way to help settle a child before bed. Not only does the storyteller get the much needed one-on-one time with the little one, but the child gets the opportunity to experience a semi-structured bedtime routine. Bedtime stories have been used throughout generations to help get children to settle before sleep and it can be a powerful tool in sleep training.
For starters, bedtime stories can help to create that all-important traditional bedtime routine. That means the same tone, setting, and even type of story may be repeated night after night. This routine forms an expectation in the child that it’s time to start getting ready for bed. It can even send a signal to your little one’s body that it’s time to start producing melatonin, the sleep hormone.
Beyond creating the traditional bedtime routine, bedtime stories can also provide a sense of security. A good bedtime story can provide a soothing and calming feeling, while a funny or adventurous one can also help the child relax by providing an emotional escape from reality. This feeling of security can, in turn, help to reduce stress and help the child drift off to dreamland.
Benefits of Bedtime Stories
Bedtime stories are a great way to foster a bond between parent and child. From toddler all the way through the tween years, children seem to love it when parents take the time to sit down and read stories. It can be an opportunity for cuddles and conversation, so the parent-child bond remains strong and meaningful.
In addition, reading to the child at bedtime can help build language skills. Not only does the storyteller use a nice, clear voice, but it also provides the opportunity to explain words and use alternate language in order to tell the tale. Also, seeing the literary elements in live action can help bring the story to life.
Using Bedtime Stories in Sleep Training
The bedtime story can be used to great effect while sleep training. First, the bedtime story serves as the introduction to the routine. By making a regular habit of reading stories at bedtime, the child will become accustomed to the pattern of the routine. This can help to unwind the child and prepare them for sleep.
Another way to use bedtime stories in sleep training is to allow children to pick out their own stories at night. This can help to motivate them to follow the sleep routine and make them feel like they are in control. An appropriate limit can be placed on what type of stories can be chosen.
Lastly, for children who may struggle at bedtime, using short, simple stories helps to keep the child’s attention and imagination engaged. Colorful picture books can also prove beneficial in these circumstances.
Types of Bedtime Stories to Consider
- Traditional fairytales
- Age-appropriate stories related to life lessons
- Classic children’s stories
- Modern stories with diverse characters and storylines
- Religious stories
- Poems and rhymes
Conclusion
Bedtime stories are a powerful tool in helping children to wind down and transition into a sleep state. They can help to create a traditional bedtime routine that can be replicated for years, while also providing the child with a sense of security and comfort. Being mindful of the types of stories selected can help to lift the spirits, engage the imagination, and encourage a good night’s rest!