Can't You Sleep, Little Bear?
#1 in Little Bear Series
What’s inside...
Expand one of the best-loved children’s books into endless new dimensions with this hour-long CD packed with story readings, games, music, and activities. Pick one of the most treasured contemporary children’s tales, listen to a dramatic reading accompanied by music and sound effects, and immerse yourself in a whole new story experience. This compelling CD pack offers a full hour of interactive fun, including participatory games, scenes to act out, learning songs, rhythms, movements, and simple crafts suggestions. Ideal for both individuals and groups — at home, on a long car ride, in a classroom, or at a party — this entertaining and educational recording will energize children’s imaginations and leave an indelible impression of the story it celebrates. 'I don't like the dark,' said Little Bear. 'What dark?' said Big Bear. 'The dark all around us,' said Little Bear. In this tender account of a sleepless night in the bear cave, Big Bear shows Little Bear that the dark is nothing to be afraid of, eventually offering the bright yellow moon and twinkling stars to comfort him. More comforting than even the best of lullabies, this bedtime story is destined to become a classic.
Character compass
Little Bear
Big Bear
Discussion points
Why do you think Little Bear couldn’t sleep? How did that make him feel?
What did Big Bear do to try to help Little Bear feel better? Do you think it was helpful?
How do you feel when you are scared or unable to sleep, and what makes you feel better?
Can you think of a time when you helped someone feel better, like Big Bear did?
What does this story teach us about caring for and helping others?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their own fears and relate them to Little Bear’s, fostering a personal connection with the story.
Highlight the gestures of comfort and support Big Bear offers, prompting your child to think about empathy and kindness.
Discuss personal experiences related to fear of the dark or difficulties sleeping to help your child connect their real-life experiences with the book’s themes.
Reinforce the message that it's okay to ask for help when they’re scared, just like Little Bear did.
Use expressive read-aloud techniques to mimic the comforting tone of Big Bear, making the reading experience more engaging and immersive.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Overcoming fear
Explanation: The story depicts Little Bear struggling with his fear of the dark and Big Bear patiently helping him by providing different sizes of lanterns until showing him the moonlight.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to tackle their fears by seeking comfort from family and understanding that there are different solutions to a problem.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding
Explanation: Big Bear shows great empathy by continuously trying to help Little Bear feel safe, teaching the importance of being considerate towards others' feelings.
Real-World Application: Kids can practice empathy by being supportive and kind when someone they know is scared or upset, just like Big Bear.
Example Lesson: Patience in problem-solving
Explanation: Big Bear does not give up on helping Little Bear, even though the first few attempts are not successful. This highlights the value of patience and perseverance.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by staying patient and persistent while solving their own problems or when helping others.
Example Lesson: Comfort in exploring the unknown
Explanation: By stepping outside the cave and realizing the natural beauty of the moonlight, Little Bear overcomes his fear and discovers a new aspect of his world.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to face the unknown and find beauty and new opportunities, reducing anxieties about new experiences.