5 Bedtime Stories That Will Make Your Child Love Reading -

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5 Bedtime Stories That Will Make Your Child Love Reading

A bedtime routine with stories is more than just a tradition — it’s a chance to bond, spark your child’s imagination, and build a lifelong love of reading. But with so many options to choose from, where do you start?

To make your evenings easier and more meaningful, here are 5 bedtime stories that will make your child fall in love with reading.

1. Dream Animals: A Bedtime Journey

By Emily Winfield Martin

This beautifully illustrated book is perfect for children with vivid imaginations. With a gentle rhyme scheme, Dream Animals invites your child to explore what their personal dream creature might be — from foxes to whales to lions with wings.

Ask your child about their dream animal after reading. It’s a wonderful way to extend the bedtime moment.

2. Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late

By Mo Willems

Funny, interactive, and endlessly re-readable, this story puts your child in charge of getting the pigeon to go to sleep. The pigeon, of course, has other plans.

Your child will laugh along as they playfully say “no” to the pigeon’s excuses. It’s a great way to model bedtime boundaries in a lighthearted way.

3. The Runaway Bunny

By Margaret Wise Brown

A classic story that has touched generations. In The Runaway Bunny, a young bunny tells his mother he wants to run away. No matter where he goes, she promises to follow and love him.

This is a quiet, comforting book perfect for children who need a little extra reassurance before bed.

4. Llama Llama Red Pajama

By Anna Dewdney

This playful, rhyming book captures the small dramas of bedtime from a toddler’s point of view. Baby Llama gets anxious when Mama Llama leaves the room — something every child can relate to.

The catchy rhythm and expressive illustrations make this one of the most beloved bedtime stories out there.

5. What Do You Do With an Idea?

By Kobi Yamada

This inspiring story follows a child who has a big idea but doesn’t quite know what to do with it. As the story unfolds, the child gains confidence — and so does the idea.

This book is perfect for creative or shy kids, showing them that their thoughts matter and can grow into something amazing.

Goodnight? No — Great Night.

There are so many beautiful children’s books, but these five bedtime stories offer a balance of fun, heart, and imagination. Keep your child’s interests and reading level in mind, and you’re sure to find a story they’ll cherish.

What was your child’s favorite from this list? Let us know or share your go-to bedtime book!

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