I’ve often heard child psychologists mention that the transition between sleep and wakefulness, and then from play to bedtime, can be difficult for children, and parents can help ease that transition for their children. When I found these cute picture books, I thought they would be just right for helping to create the right tone for your child on either end of the sleep spectrum.
“Wake Up, Me!” eases the child into a state of alertness after sleep. The text is simple – “Wake up, ears. Wake up, eyes.” The child says “wake up” to his body, and then to the things he sees outside his window, and prepares to eat breakfast. He tells his eating utensils to wake up, and takes pride in eating his food up. He then wakes up his coat and cap and goes outside to wake up the day.
The thing I like best about this book is the way it models a peaceful start to the day. No fighting over what to wear or what to have for breakfast – everything is done in order and with co-operation. I think we can all use a little more of that! (This book was published in 2002 by Simon and Schuster and was illustrated by Sam Williams.)
To close our day, let’s read “Sleepy Me!” We walk around the yard and house, noticing everything that is sleepy. We see a sleepy cat, a sleepy mouse, a sleepy stair and sleepy chair. Daddy rocks the child for a little while, and then they go into the bedroom to see all the sleepy things there. They have a story and then climb into bed, where Mommy kisses his eyes closed. Again, a peaceful, loving routine is modeled, just right for making the child sleepy. In fact, I’m starting to feel a little tired myself . . . (This book was published in 2001 by Simon and Schuster and was illustrated by Sam Williams.)
Related Blogs:
Tell Me Something Happy Before I Go to Sleep
Children’s Picture Books About Relationships With Parents