How bedtime stories help kids settle into a calm sleep routine

Expert Advice – 28 Oct 24 By Fiona Wright

(Image: Supplied)

Emma Watkins lends her voice to a new series of 40 bedtime stories.

Setting a bedtime routine is like adding a little magic to your child’s nightly wind-down – and bedtime stories make it truly memorable.

To help families bring more enchantment to bedtime, Audible, a leading creator and provider of premium audio storytelling, has launched an exciting new Audible Original retelling of A Dream for Every Night, performed by former Wiggles star, Emma Watkins.

Created to gently guide children from playtime to bedtime, the series includes 40 short stories that take listeners from funny farm tales to underwater adventures and horse-riding escapades.

Emma Watkins launches new audio bedtime stories for kids

Emma, now also known to little ones as entertainer EmmaMemma, brings her engaging warmth to each story, saying, “It’s been such a joy to be part of this Audible Original, encouraging creativity and growing children’s imaginations. There are so many benefits of storytelling for children’s development, and I’m looking forward to sharing these enchanting stories from A Dream for Every Night that may be woven into families’ nighttime routines.”

Here’s why adding a bedtime story like A Dream for Every Night to your nightly routine can help you create a lasting routine while also nurturing your little one’s love for reading.

Here’s why grabbing a storybook before lights out can help you create a lasting routine while also nurturing your little one’s love for reading.

Emma Watkins narrates bedtime stories for Audible — From funny farm friends to dinosaur doctors, A Dream for Every Night selection of short stories performed by Emma Watkins, has a tale to inspire every child’s imagination. *(Image: Supplied)*

Storytime to snooze time: The benefits of bedtime stories for young kids

1. Creates calm and signals sleep time

Reading together creates a cosy, calm atmosphere that naturally helps kids unwind. When you open a book, your child knows it’s time to relax and let the day go. This soothing ritual cues their brain that it’s time for bed, helping make bedtime a breeze.

2. Boosts imagination and learning

Bedtime stories aren’t just fun – they’re an adventure. As they listen, kids imagine new worlds, characters, and situations, stimulating creativity and curiosity. Audiobooks add an extra layer of engagement, with expressive narration that brings each story to life. Plus, kids pick up new vocabulary and language patterns, all while cosied up in bed.

Emma Watkins in the studio recording launch of A Dream for Every Night Audible book series. — “There are so many benefits of storytelling for children’s development,” says Emma. *(Image: Supplied)*

3. Builds an unbreakable bond

Snuggling up and reading together gives you both some quality bonding time in a busy day. As you share stories, you build trust and warmth that your child will cherish. This is the perfect chance to show them they’re loved and cared for- and what better way to end the day?

4. Fosters a love for reading

By making reading a part of their nightly routine, you’re introducing your child to the joy of books. Before long, they’ll look forward to picking out stories, creating a positive connection with reading that can last a lifetime. This love for stories can also be a foundation for school readiness and future learning.

5. Sets a routine you’ll both look forward to

Consistency is key for kids, and a bedtime story helps create a predictable, relaxing routine. Knowing what to expect makes bedtime less stressful for both of you, creating a smooth, enjoyable end to the day. And soon, you’ll find that your child won’t want to end the night without it!

Ready to make bedtime magical?

Pick out a few favourite stories, settle in, and let the tales whisk you both away. In just a few weeks, you’ll likely see a happier, more peaceful bedtime – and a child who can’t wait to share their next adventure with you.