It's Time to Sleep, My Love
on Goodreads (1,998)
What’s inside...
This is a beautifully illustrated bedtime story that uses rhythmic and soothing text to guide children towards sleep. The narrative reassures young readers of their parents' love and encourages them to drift off into peaceful slumber, surrounded by the wonders of the natural world. As children prepare for bed, the world around them is also settling down for the night. Animals who live in the jungle, the forest, the sea—all whisper to their babies a soft 'It’s time to sleep, my love.' Illustrated by Nancy Tillman, the book celebrates the wonders of the natural world and the bonds of family, providing comfort like a soft blanket and warmth like a goodnight hug.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
1-4
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the animals in the book feel as they get ready for bed?
What are some things you like to do before bedtime to feel cozy and safe, just like the characters in the story?
Why do you think sleep is important for everyone, including animals and people?
What was your favorite part of the bedtime scenery described in the book?
If you could create a bedtime routine for the animals, what would it look like?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use a calm and soothing voice to mirror the serene tone of the book, helping your child wind down.
Encourage your child to describe their own bedtime routine and compare it with those of the animals in the book.
Discuss the importance of sleep for health and well-being, drawing parallels between the child's experiences and the story.
Ask your child to imagine and describe a peaceful bedtime scene, enhancing their emotional connection to the story.
Use the book's illustrations to engage visual observation and discuss the different elements that make up a comforting bedtime environment.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Establishing a calming bedtime routine
Explanation: The rhythmic and soothing text of 'It's Time to Sleep, My Love' helps set a peaceful tone, ideal for a bedtime routine.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this by developing a consistent bedtime routine that includes calming activities, assisting them in winding down effectively each night.
Example Lesson: Reassurance of safety and love
Explanation: The narrative conveys a comforting message that the child is safe, loved, and not alone as they drift off to sleep.
Real-World Application: This can help children feel more secure and loved at bedtime, reducing anxiety and promoting a sense of well-being.
Example Lesson: Connection with nature
Explanation: The book incorporates elements of nature in its illustrations, subtly teaching children about the natural world.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and observe nature’s beauty, possibly encouraging exploration and curiosity about the environment around them.
Example Lesson: Importance of rest
Explanation: Through the gentle journey to sleep illustrated in the book, children learn that sleep is a natural and essential part of every day.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children understand the health benefits of sleep, encouraging them to value and prioritize rest.