A common issue when raising children is keeping a regular bedtime. Whether it springs from a fear of the dark or difficulty settling down, sleep can be a tricky part of parenting. Your little one’s nighttime regimen should include all the basics, such as bath time, teeth brushing, and wearing a pair of fun pajamas. Before the next visit from Mr. Sandman strikes, try incorporating a bedtime story to make sleepy time more enjoyable.

Set the Stage for a Great Night's Sleep

If you are a parent or caregiver in search of children’s bedtime book recommendations, follow along to learn more about five wonderful stories that cover the topic of sleep.

Dr. Seuss’s Sleep Book
by Dr. Seuss

When it comes to great children’s books, Dr. Seuss is a top pick. Kids of all ages enjoy his silly pictures and catchy rhymes. Far from a snooze, Dr. Seuss’s Sleep Book treats you to the whimsy of this beloved author as he explains how yawns are contagious. Passed from creature to creature, a small yawn starts with a bug named Van Vleck and gets passed on to a Mupp named Chippendale. Pick up this read at your local library to find out how it continues to spread!

The Going to Bed Book 
by Sandra Boynton

The adorable animal characters in this tale are sure to entertain you and your young children. Even better, your kids will learn all about a healthy sleep routine at the same time. Taking a bath, preparing the bed, brushing your teeth, and saying goodnight are all a part of this special rhyming story you and your little ones will love.

How Do Dinosaurs Say Goodnight?
by Jane Yolen & Mark Teague

With a healthy dose of humor and detail that’s as educational as it is entertaining, your kids will laugh along as ten dinosaurs prepare for bed. You’ll soon see that it isn’t just human children that can be goofy at bedtime. The Pteranodon, T-Rex, Stegosaurus, and others get into a few silly activities when it’s time for lights out.

The Napping House 
by Audrey & Don Wood

This story begins with a dark house where everyone and everything inside is asleep… a snoozing cat, slumbering mouse, and a snoring granny too! Will a flea foil everyone’s sound sleep? The detailed illustrations delight readers of every age, and the sunny rainbow at the end can comfort even the most fearful of sleepers.

Goodnight Moon 
by Margaret Wise Brown

First published decades ago, this classic is a calming story that becomes catchier every time you read it. With a healthy emphasis on sleep rituals and pictures that lend themselves to an entertaining “look and find” activity for kids, don’t be surprised if you are asked to read this one over and over again.

Sleep is a vital part of healthy living for the young and old. It's important that you ensure you and your family get enough hours of quality rest every night. To learn more bedtime tips and the latest on sleep health, stay tuned to our blog written by our team of expert Outfitters.