19 Best Bedtime Stories to Read To Your Toddler
If you're searching for a peaceful way to enhance your toddler’s nighttime routine, reading books can help with the transition and ensure they get a good night's sleep.
When choosing great bedtime books for your toddler, here are a few things to look for: lots of repetition, simple rhythmic words, colorful illustrations, and short stories.
Keeping these elements in mind will help you build a bedtime stories collection to read to your toddler that ensures your evenings end with calmness.
Let’s get into this post and discover some of the best bedtime stories to read to your toddler.
And for those nights when you're too tired to read, I’ll provide you with free audio bedtime stories that you can easily access online.
If you enjoy creating your own stories, check out this post for story prompts and a free printable.
19 Bedtime Stories For Toddlers
Sweet dreams are just a page turn away with these top bedtime books that toddlers can't get enough of. Each title is of enchanting tales and captivating illustrations, designed to soothe little minds into a peaceful slumber at the end of the day.
1. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle
“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” charming story follows the journey of a tiny caterpillar as he eats his way through an array of colorful foods before transforming into a beautiful butterfly.
It's a fun and easy way for your toddler to learn about the life cycle of a caterpillar.
Each page is filled with eye-catching colors and textures, making it visually stimulating for toddlers and a good book to include in a young child's routine. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
2. "Guess How Much I Love You" by Sam McBratney
“Guess How Much I Love You" is sweet story of Little Nutbrown Hare and Big Nutbrown Hare as they express their love for each other.
The heartwarming moments shared between the characters can foster a deep love for reading at an early age.
The book's tender dialogue and beautiful illustrations invite little one to snuggle closer with their parents, creating a good bedtime story. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
3. “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd
There's something magical about the gentle flow of “Goodnight Moon”. The soothing rhythm of the text paired with Clement Hurd’s gorgeous illustrations creates an atmosphere perfect for winding down.
This timeless bedtime book takes young kids on a calming journey as a little bunny says goodnight to every object in his cozy, softly lit room.
This provides a sense of security, making it easier for toddlers to settle into their own routine.
4. "Llama Llama Red Pajama" by Anna Dewdney
Momma, this classic bedtime book resonates if your little one also struggles often with bedtime routines.
"Llama Llama Red Pajama" tells the story of a little llama who is getting ready for bed but suddenly becomes impatient and anxious.
Llama Llama finds it difficult to fall asleep as he waits for his mother to come back. His imagination starts running wild, causing him to call out and even cry for her.
Mama Llama's comforting presence reassures the little llama to fall asleep. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
5. "We're Going on a Bear Hunt" by Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury
“We're Going on a Bear Hunt” takes readers on an exhilarating journey with a family as they explore different landscapes.
From wishing through grass, splashing through rivers, and tiptoeing through caves in their search for a bear. Each page is filled with excitement and action as the family encounters and overcomes obstacles together.
The bear hunt turns nighttime into a thrilling quest, becoming one of those cherished bedtime experiences children adore. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
6. "Ten Minutes to Bed Little Monster" by Rhiannon Fielding and Chris Chatterton
“Ten Minutes to Bed: Little Monster” transforms bedtime struggles into a cherished ritual that both you and your child look forward to each evening.
Follow as Little Monster, an adorable but mischievous creature who has just ten minutes left before bedtime.
Despite his parents’ best efforts, Little Monster finds all sorts of distractions to delay going to sleep.
From bouncing on the bed to playing with his toys, each minute is filled with delightful antics.
The magic of this book lies in its gentle countdown approach. As the minutes tick by, the narrative subtly guides you towards calming down your little one and getting ready for bed. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
7. "If Animals Kissed Good Night" by Ann Whitford Paul and David Walker
“If Animals Kissed Good Night" is an excellent bedtime story to read to your toddler that will take you all through an enchanting journey through the animal kingdom at bedtime.
The short story imagines how different animals might kiss their little ones good night, from slow sloth kisses to quick peacock pecks.
Each kiss shared between the animals encourages a loving and soothing end to the day, making it a perfect addition to your bedtime stories for toddlers. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
8. “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” by Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle
“Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See?” is a board book has rhythmic text and vibrant illustrations that bring to life a variety of colorful animals.
This will engage your toddler senses and capture their attention, making it a perfect choice for bedtime reading. As the story unfolds, each animal asks the next one what they see, creating a pattern that your toddler will quickly catch on to.
The repetitive structure helps develop early literacy skills and encourages participation from young listeners. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
9. “Sleepyheads”, by Sandra J. Howatt and Joyce Wan
“Sleepyheads” is a sweet and gentle bedtime story that celebrates the end of a busy day and the start of a calm and cozy night.
The story follows a variety of sleepy animal families as they prepare for bed, from yawning bears to snuggling foxes.
The repetitive refrain, "Sleepyheads, sleepyheads, goodnight, goodnight," adds to the comforting rhythm of the text.
With its soothing tone and adorable characters, Sleepyheads is a great way for winding down after an eventful day.
It will encourage your little one to embrace the tranquility of bedtime, making it an ideal choice for creating a peaceful atmosphere to add to your bedtime routine. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
10. “Leo, Sleep Tight!” by Anna McQuinn, illustrated by Ruth Hearson
“Leo, Sleep Tight!” can be your next favorite book. It's a heartwarming story that follows the adventures of a little boy and his family as they prepare for bed.
From brushing teeth to putting on pajamas, the book takes children through a familiar routine that emphasizes the importance of a good night's sleep.
It's an excellent choice to add to your bookshelf for reading time. Here is an audio version of the book -youtube-.
11. “How to Put Your Parents to Bed” by Mylisa Larsen
“How to Put Your Parents to Bed” takes a humorous twist on the bedtime routine, as a young girl takes charge and tries to put her parents to bed.
The roles are reversed, with the child giving instructions and reminding her parents of their bedtime rituals.
This playful take on the usually adult-led process can be empowering for children, giving them a sense of control and responsibility.
With its relatable scenarios and lively illustrations, this book makes bedtime routines fun and enjoyable for both children and their parents.
12. "The Three Little Pigs" by James Halliwell-Phillipps
Mom this is a classic fairy tale we all grew up with. “The Three Little Pigs” follow three little pigs as they build their homes to protect themselves from a big bad wolf.
Each pig's choice of building material- straw, sticks, or bricks becomes a lesson in resilience and perseverance.
Through the tale, children learn the importance of hard work, planning, and making wise choices.
The vivid illustrations and engaging storytelling make the perfect bedtime story to read to your toddler while also imparting valuable life lessons.
13. “Llama Llama Nighty-Night” by Anna Dewdney
In this book, Llama Llama goes through his nighttime routine, from brushing teeth to saying goodnight to his stuffed animals.
With its gentle rhymes and colorful illustrations, “Llama Llama Nighty-Night” creates a soothing atmosphere that helps children wind down before sleep.
It also emphasizes the comfort of a familiar providing reassurance and a sense of security to help promote better sleep.
14. “The Velveteen Rabbit” by Margery Williams
“The Velveteen Rabbit” is a heartwarming tale about the power of love and the magic of becoming real. It tells the story of a stuffed rabbit who longs to be loved and cherished by his owner.
Through his journey, he learns the true meaning of love, sacrifice, and the beauty of imperfection. This timeless classic teaches children about empathy, resilience, and the transformative power of genuine affection.
Margery Williams' beautiful prose and William Nicholson's delicate illustrations make this book a must-read for both children and adults alike.
15. “Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site” by Sherri Duskey Rinker
"Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site” is a charming bedtime story that takes you and your toddler on a journey through a bustling construction site.
As the sun sets and the workers prepare for rest, each vehicle bids its farewell, slowly winding down and settling in for the night.
The vivid illustrations capture the excitement and energy of a construction site while also highlighting the importance of rest and rejuvenation.
This combination of action and tranquility creates a perfect balance to promote an environment to wind down after an eventful day.
16. "Bear Snores On" by Karma Wilson, Illustrated by Jane Chapman
“Bear Snores On” is a delightful story that follows a group of woodland animals who gather in a bear's cave for a party while he snores.
It celebrates the beauty of nature and the importance of friendship.
As winter approaches, animals in the forest come together to help one another prepare for the cold.
The lyrical text and stunning illustrations vividly depict the changing seasons and create a sense of coziness and warmth.
This book not only teaches children about cooperation and empathy but also serves as a gentle reminder to appreciate the wonders of the natural world.
It's a perfect bedtime story that will leave your child feeling comforted and inspired.
17 "Dr. Seuss's Sleep Book" by Dr. Seuss
This whimsical book by Dr. Seuss is filled with silly and imaginative creatures getting ready for bed. “Dr. Seuss's Sleep Book” is a whimsical and imaginative tale that takes readers on a journey to the "land of sleep."
The book introduces a wide cast of characters, including the yawn-hungry "Yawn-o-snores" and the "Fiffer-feffer-feff," who ensure that everyone in the world is sleeping soundly.
It not only entertains but also emphasizes the importance of a good night's sleep, making it an ideal choice for bedtime reading.
18. "Where the Wild Things Are" by Maurice Sendak
“Where the Wild Things Are” is a classic picture book follows the imaginative journey of Max, who sails to the land of the wild things and becomes their king.
The story's rhythmic text and captivating illustrations make it an adventurous and fun bedtime read that sparks imagination and creativity.
The wild things' antics and Max's playful interactions ensure a delightful and engaging experience for young readers.
19 “I’m Not Sleepy” by Jonathan Allen
“I’m Not Sleepy” follows a little owl who insists that he's not ready for bed.
As his patient parent suggests various activities to tire him out, the owl becomes increasingly drowsy, eventually succumbing to sleep.
This humorous and relatable story gently explores the resistance to bedtime that many children experience. Through its charming illustrations and simple yet engaging text.
I'm Not Sleepy provides a reassuring message that sleep is essential and can be welcomed rather than resisted.
The Power of Bedtime Stories with Toddlers
Sharing bedtime stories to read to your toddlers is a great way to help your toddler develop. These special moments improve sleep patterns, boost language acquisition, and nurture a lifelong love for reading.
The intimate setting of bedtime storytelling fosters a deep emotional bond between you and your little one.
Exploring the best bedtime stories for toddlers ensures you have a wide array of enchanting tales at your fingertips.
So grab a book, snuggle up, and let the magical world of bedtime stories whisk you and your child away into the land of dreams. Happy reading!
Toddler Book Club Program
Imagine turning bedtime into a delightful reading adventure with your toddler! Our Toddler Book Club supports you with creative lesson plans, fun activities, and valuable tips to make reading a cherished habit. No strings attached—just a world of stories waiting to be discovered.
