Leo loved bedtime. Not just any bedtime, but *his* bedtime. Every night, he’d follow the same routine, and it was the best part of his day.
First, he’d brush his teeth with his special purple toothbrush. He’d make sure to brush every single tooth, even the tiny ones at the back. It was important to him to keep his smile healthy.
Next, he’d choose a book about animals or space, and settle into his comfy reading chair. He loved the feel of the soft fabric of his chair and the smell of the old books.
He’d read a story, or sometimes he'd just look at the pictures and let his imagination run wild. He loved the way the pictures made him feel like he was part of the story.
After reading, Leo would cuddle with his favorite teddy bear, Barnaby. Barnaby always seemed to understand how Leo felt, just by the way Leo held him.
Quietly, he’d listen to the gentle sounds of the night. The wind whispered through the trees outside his window, and the crickets chirped their soft songs.
Leo knew that it was time to close his eyes and dream. He'd give thanks for his cozy bed, his family, and the wonderful day he'd had.
One night, Leo felt a bit impatient. He wished the day would hurry up so he could go to sleep, so he could dream.
He quickly brushed his teeth and settled down with his book. But, something was different. He was restless, and the stories and the pictures did not seem interesting as before. He wasn't as excited to snuggle with Barnaby.
Just as Leo was about to feel frustrated, he remembered how he loved his routine. It was a time for quiet reflection and gratitude. He closed his eyes and listened.
The wind, the crickets, the quiet hum of the night, they all calmed him down again. He took a deep breath. He realized that each step of his routine was important, a way to prepare for a restful night.
He thanked Barnaby for his comfort and the book for the beautiful stories it held. He thanked his family for creating a safe and loving space in which he was free to read and dream. He was grateful for the process that helped him relax and sleep well. He felt much calmer.
As sleep drifted over him, Leo realized that patience was important. It was important to enjoy each step of his bedtime routine.
From that night on, Leo made sure to appreciate every moment of his bedtime routine. It helped him be calm, relaxed, and happy, and he felt grateful for this quiet special time.