Bedtime stories: making reading part of a calm bedtime
Why a short, quiet story works so well in a routine, and how to choose and read one.
By Best Sleep Trackers · Updated October 18, 2026
A story gives children a predictable, loving last activity of the day. The bedtime story corner has short, calm read-aloud tales for small sleepers, with a read-aloud time on each.
Choosing a story
- Pick something slow and gentle, not exciting or scary.
- Match the length to your child: two to five minutes is plenty for young ones.
- Re-reading favourites is fine; familiarity is calming.
How to read it
- Dim the lights and sit close.
- Slow down towards the end and lower your voice.
- Finish with the same goodnight words each time.
In the routine
Stories sit best after pyjamas and teeth. See how to build a calm bedtime routine and the routine chart. Children need plenty of sleep, with ranges that depend on age (AASM, 2016); check your child’s with the kids bedtime calculator.
If bedtime remains difficult, talk to your pediatrician.
Sources
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General information only. This tool gives general sleep information and is not a substitute for medical advice. If you're worried about your sleep or your child's, talk to a doctor or pediatrician.