Barnaby Bear loved playing! He'd tumble and bounce all day long, chasing butterflies in the meadow and playing hide-and-seek amongst the tall sunflowers.
But when the sun began to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, Barnaby's mama would call him in for his bedtime routine. She knew that a well-rested bear cub is a happy bear cub!
First, Barnaby would help tidy his den, putting away his favorite acorns and carefully arranging his plush bumblebees. Then, he'd brush his teeth with a tiny twig and a bit of honey, humming a little tune.
Next came his favorite part: choosing his bedtime story! Tonight, it was about a brave little mouse who rescued a lost firefly. Mama Bear would read with her warm, comforting voice.
As Mama Bear read, Barnaby snuggled closer, his eyes growing heavy. The story filled his head with wonderful images of sparkling fireflies and a daring little mouse. He began to feel sleepy.
Soon, Barnaby was drifting off, his dreams filled with adventures of his own. He dreamt he flew among the stars, each one twinkling like a tiny firefly, and helped a sleepy moonbeam find its way home.
In his dreams, Barnaby even helped his friends, a sleepy bunny and a tired owl, prepare for their own cozy beds. He shared his fluffy cloud blanket and they all slept peacefully under the watchful eyes of the stars.
When Barnaby woke up, the sun was shining brightly. He felt refreshed and ready for another day of fun. He remembered his dream, and smiled remembering the kindness he showed his friends in his sleep.
Barnaby knew that a good night's sleep filled him with energy and made him kind and happy. And that made his bedtime routine not just a chore, but a special, happy part of his day.