Why Bedtime Stories are Never Out of Fashion

I still remember those few minutes before surrendering to Morpheus as a child. Usually something terrible had happened; a dragon would be threating to burn down a castle or a goodhearted giant would be left alone in his garden… I also remember my dad’s voice, warm and calm no matter what. Even when the most terrible things occurred and I was seriously considering the option of screaming, his tone suggested that in the end everything was going to be fine.

Most children are ready to sign an anti-bedtime manifesto when it’s time to go to sleep. But if the parents make sure that there is a great story waiting for them under the pillow then bed time can become the day’s highlight.

Recent surveys have indicated that reading to your child -especially when he’s lying in bed and is unlikely to get distracted- enhances his language and communication skills. Most children’s books have vivid, colourful pictures that nurture the child’s creativity. What’s more, with their morals and problem solving endings they stimulate his imagination and coping mechanisms.

A few months ago a new survey showed that at least half of the British parents have little or no free time for bedtime stories; only 50% read bedtime stories to their children on a daily basis whereas 10% admitted reading a bedtime story once every… six months! Yet in this computer-centered era nothing seems to be working better than a bedtime story. The routine of letting your toddler decide which story he wants to hear and then lifting off to brave, new worlds with you on his side is invaluable; it strengthens the emotional bonds between you and your child and helps him feel secure.  

The majority amongst us feel exhausted at the end of a hard day’s night. I urge you, though, to read to your little ones because I know you are in for a big surprise. Reading will help you relax as well and will offer you some real quality time with your precious. As soon as the story is finished, don’t hesitate to answer to his questions, if he’s got any. Remember though to keep excitement out of the room at all times, since it’s the calm voice that will help him relax and fall asleep.

When exiting the room make sure that you leave a soft night light on, like Light My Way night light by Lindam! This is a portable led night light with an easy grasp handle that will become your toddler’s best night pal! Shaped as the cutest owl you’ve ever seen, it remains cool no matter how long it stays on and its batteries last up to 120 hours! If your child hasn’t fallen asleep when you leave his room he will not be frightened in the idea of being left alone in a dark room and if he wakes up during the night he won’t panic.

I know that sometimes adults are not that different from children; all I need in order to sleep well is a good book, a comforting light and two loving arms around me… So there is only one thing left to do; decide which story you are going to read to him tonight!