Bedtime Bonnet
What’s inside...
In 'Bedtime Bonnet' by Nancy Redd, a young African American girl navigates the nightly routine of taking care of her hair. As she prepares for bed, she realizes she can't find her bonnet, an essential item to protect her hairdo while she sleeps. The story unfolds with the girl seeking help from various family members, each with their own unique haircare routines, showcasing the diversity of hair within her family. The book celebrates cultural traditions, family bonds, and the importance of self-care. Ultimately, the girl finds her bonnet and goes to bed, knowing her hair is safe, which highlights the message of the book about the significance of heritage and the loving care that goes into maintaining it.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
2-6
Length
26 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the characters feel when they wear their bedtime bonnets and why?
What are some nighttime routines our family has, and how are they similar or different from the ones in the book?
Why is it important for everyone in the story to take care of their hair before bed?
Can you think of other ways people might prepare for bed differently?
Tip: Role play these questions
Settle into a comfortable spot for reading to create a cozy environment that mirrors bedtime routines, enhancing the connection to the story.
Ask your child to describe their own bedtime routine and compare it with those in the book to personalize the experience.
Discuss the significance of family traditions and routines, emphasizing how they foster a sense of belonging and care.
Encourage empathy by exploring feelings, asking your child to ponder how the characters might feel with their night routines, fostering emotional intelligence.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing cultural traditions
Explanation: In 'Bedtime Bonnet', the nightly routine of a young Black girl and her family wearing hair bonnets and durags is portrayed, highlighting the importance of this cultural tradition.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and continue cultural practices that are meaningful to their family and community.
Example Lesson: Family unity and bonding
Explanation: The story shows each family member partaking in their evening ritual together, which fosters a sense of togetherness.
Real-World Application: Kids can engage in nightly routines with their families, strengthening relationships and creating cherished memories.
Example Lesson: Self-acceptance and confidence
Explanation: The protagonist learns to feel comfortable and proud of her identity and the rituals that come with it, promoting self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to embrace and take pride in their own unique traits and backgrounds.
Example Lesson: Problem-solving skills
Explanation: When the young girl's bonnet goes missing, she problem-solves by trying to find an alternative, showing resilience and creativity.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to think creatively and persistently when faced with challenges in their lives.