Barnaby Bear was a very busy bear. He loved to play! He’d tumble and roll, build towers of sticks, and chase butterflies all day long. But when Mama Bear said, “Barnaby, it’s almost bedtime!” Barnaby would frown. Bedtime didn’t *seem* like fun.
“Bedtime is boring!” Barnaby grumbled. Mama Bear smiled. “Bedtime isn’t boring, Barnaby. It’s a special time for adventures… in your dreams! But first, we need a bedtime routine.”
Mama Bear started Barnaby’s routine. First, a warm bath with bubbly blueberry soap. Then, brushing his teeth with yummy strawberry toothpaste. Next, putting on his cozy pajamas with little bear paws on them. Barnaby started to feel a little calmer with each step.
“Now,” said Mama Bear, “let’s make bedtime fun! Let’s pretend your bed is a spaceship!” Barnaby’s eyes lit up. He jumped into bed and pretended to push buttons and zoom through space. “Whoosh! We’re flying to the moon!” he shouted.
Mama Bear pretended to be the spaceship’s computer. “Beep boop! We’re passing sparkly stars and fluffy clouds!” Barnaby giggled. He imagined seeing friendly alien bears waving hello.
Then, Mama Bear read Barnaby a story about a little firefly who learned to shine brightly. Barnaby snuggled close, listening to her gentle voice. He imagined himself as the firefly, glowing with happiness.
As the story ended, Barnaby felt sleepy and peaceful. He realized bedtime *could* be fun! It wasn’t just about going to sleep; it was about using his imagination and enjoying a cozy routine with his mama.
“Bedtime is fun, Mama!” Barnaby whispered, yawning. Mama Bear kissed his forehead. “Yes, Barnaby. Sweet dreams, little bear.” And Barnaby drifted off to sleep, dreaming of spaceship adventures and shining fireflies. He knew that even when the day was done, the fun could continue… in his dreams.