EN5Leseprobe
Noah Learns to Sleep in His Own Room
My name is Noah. I am six years old and I have my own bedroom with a cozy bed, soft pillows, and my favorite stuffed animals. Sometimes at bedtime, I feel worried about sleeping alone in my room. My tummy might feel funny or my heart might beat a little faster. These feelings are called being afraid, and many children feel this way sometimes.
It is okay to feel afraid. Feelings are normal and they help us understand ourselves. When I feel afraid at bedtime, I can take slow, deep breaths to help my body feel calmer. Mom helps me get ready for bed each night. We follow a bedtime routine together. First, I brush my teeth, then I put on my pajamas, and then Mom reads me a story in my room.
My bedroom is a safe place. The walls stay in the same place all night. My toys and books are right where I left them. My stuffed animals keep me company on my bed. Mom reminds me that she is just in the next room while I sleep. If I need her, I can call out and she will hear me. She is always nearby, even when I cannot see her.
Before Mom says goodnight, we can talk about happy things. We might talk about fun things that happened today or exciting plans for tomorrow. Happy thoughts can help my mind feel peaceful. Mom might leave a small nightlight on in my room. The gentle light helps me see that everything is just the way it should be. Some children like nightlights and some do not - both ways are fine.
When I lie down in my bed, I can hug my favorite stuffed animal. I can feel the soft blanket around me. My bed is warm and comfortable, the perfect place for sleeping. If I wake up during the night and feel worried, I can remember that I am safe. I can take deep breaths, hug my stuffed animal, and close my eyes again. Morning always comes after nighttime. Every night that I sleep in my own room, I am being brave. Being brave does not mean I never feel afraid. Being brave means I can do something even when it feels hard.
