14 Sweet Bedtime Poems For Kids To Make Bedtime Peaceful

Explore 14 sweet bedtime poems for kids that will make bedtime peaceful in our upcoming article.

As a mom who treasures peaceful bedtime routines with my little one, I know how challenging it can be to put a toddler to bed.

I remember one particular night when my daughter was especially restless and simply refused to go to sleep.

No matter how much I tried to soothe her, she just kept crying and fidgeting, making it impossible to get her to settle down.

As the hours ticked by and exhaustion set in, I found myself feeling frustrated and at a loss for what to do.

It was in that moment that I realized the true value of a calming bedtime routine, and the power of bedtime stories and poetry to soothe and relax even the most stubborn of little ones.

From that night on, I made a commitment to incorporate peaceful bedtime rituals into our nightly routine, and I’m happy to say that it’s made all the difference in the world.

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Classic Bedtime Poems

“Wynken, Blynken, and Nod” by Eugene Field Wynken

Blynken, and Nod one night Sailed off in a wooden shoe
— Sailed on a river of crystal light,
Into a sea of dew.
“Where are you going, and what do you wish?”
The old moon asked the three.
“We have come to fish for the herring fish
That live in this beautiful sea;
Nets of silver and gold have we!”
Said Wynken, Blynken, and Nod.

“The Moon” by Robert Louis Stevenson

The moon has a face like the clock in the hall;
She shines on thieves on the garden wall,
On streets and fields and harbour quays,
And birdies asleep in the forks of the trees.

Minnie And Winnie

Once upon a moonlit night so fine, Two little sisters named Minnie and Winnie, divine, With twinkling eyes and hearts full of glee, They settled down for a sleepy time spree.

Under a blanket of stars, shining bright, Minnie and Winnie bid the world goodnight, Their imaginations soared, ready to take flight, As they embarked on a magical dream-filled night.

In their cozy beds, they snuggled up tight, With pillows and blankets, soft as moonlight, Their favorite bedtime stories at their side, Adventure and wonder they could not hide.

Minnie and Winnie, together they lay, In a land where dreams danced and stories did play, As the night breeze whispered a lullaby sweet, Their eyelids grew heavy, ready to meet sleep’s fleet.

As dreams spun their webs, weaving magic and delight, Minnie and Winnie journeyed through the night, They sailed on clouds, fluffy and white, To lands of enchantment, sparkling and bright.

In their dreams, they met creatures so rare, Unicorns and fairies with flowing hair, They danced with fireflies, lighting up the night, And soared with dragons, taking flights of pure delight.

With a giggle and a yawn, they sailed back home, As dawn painted the sky with colors of its own, Minnie and Winnie woke with joyful hearts, Ready to embrace the day, for a new adventure starts.

So, as you drift off to sleep, my dear, May your dreams be filled with wonder and cheer, Just like Minnie and Winnie, may you find, A world of magic and dreams, one of a kind.

Now close your eyes and let your imagination take flight, For in dreamland, anything is possible, day or night, Sleep tight, little one, as the stars gently gleam, Minnie and Winnie wish you the sweetest dreams.

“The Sugar-Plum Tree” by Eugene Field

Have you ever heard of the Sugar-Plum Tree?
‘Tis a marvel of great renown!
It blooms on the shore of the Lollipop sea
In the garden of Shut-Eye Town.

“The Land of Nod” by Robert Louis Stevenson

From breakfast on through all the day
At home among my friends I stay,
But every night I go abroad
Afar into the land of Nod.

“The Owl and the Pussy-Cat” by Edward Lear

The Owl and the Pussy-Cat went to sea In a beautiful pea-green boat,
They took some honey, and plenty of money,
Wrapped up in a five-pound note.
The Owl looked up to the stars above,
And sang to a small guitar, “
O lovely Pussy! O Pussy, my love,
What a beautiful Pussy you are!”

Let’s All go To The Moon

Come gather ’round, my little friends, A journey to the moon begins. We’ll soar beyond the starlit sky, Where astronauts and dreams do fly.

Strap on your helmets, hold on tight, As we embark on this wondrous flight. Blast off! Feel the rocket’s roar, As we leave Earth’s familiar shore.

Floating in the vast expanse, Weightless in a cosmic dance, With twinkling stars as our guide, We’ll explore the moon’s far side.

The lunar surface, silver and bright, A world so different, bathed in light. We’ll bounce around like astronauts do, Leaving footprints, marking our debut.

We’ll marvel at the craters deep, And wonder why the moon’s asleep. We’ll leap and bound in lunar play, In this captivating world, we’ll stay.

With spacesuits and lunar gear, We’ll have no worries, have no fear. For in our imagination’s flight, The moon becomes our playground, bright.

But as the day begins to wane, It’s time to head back home again. Through the stars, we’ll swiftly race, Returning to our dear Earth’s embrace.

So dream of moons and distant space, Of rocket ships and starry chase. For in our hearts, the moon will stay, As we explore new worlds one day.

Funny Bedtime Poems

“The Bitter Wind Doth Blow” by Unknown Author

The bitter wind doth blow,
And we shall have snow,
And what will poor Robin do then?
Poor thing!

“The Little Baby Dear” by Ann Taylor

The little baby dear,
With eyes so round and clear,
Through all the dark night seems
To see a million dreams.

“The Blue-Eyed Doll” by Laura E. Richards

There was a little doll once,
With eyes of brightest blue;
She lay at night upon the shelf,
And dreamed the whole night through.
And when the sun came shining in,
And all the world was bright,
The little doll would wake and smile,
And wish it still were night.

Bedtime Poems for Sweet Dreams

“Sweet Dreams” by Emily Dickinson

Sweet dreams form a shade, O’er my lovely infant’s head; Sweet dreams of pleasant streams, By happy, silent, moony beams.

“Sounds of the Great Sea” by Lewis Carroll

Sounds of the great sea And the distant surf’s roar Make us dream of voyages To a far-off shore.

“Little Ladies” by Eugene Field

Little ladies, little ladies,
flowers in the garden,
Playing all together until the night comes on;
Fighting in the sunlight, peaceful in the shade,
Till the stars come out to tell us they’re not afraid.

“The Wooden Shoe” by Unknown Author

The wooden shoe that sailed the sky
Is sailing now to Dreamland by,
Where little children sleep and play
Until the dawn brings back the day.

The Land of Counterpane” by Robert Louis Stevenson

When I was sick and lay a-bed,
I had two pillows at my head,
And all my toys beside me lay
To keep me happy all the day.

The Dream Ship” by Eugene Field

Here is the place;
right over the hill Runs the path I took;
You can see the gap in the old wall still,
And the stepping-stones in the shallow brook.

“Dreamland” by Christina Rossetti

Where sunless rivers weep
Their waves into the deep,
She sleeps a charmed sleep:
Awake her not.

“The Swing” by Robert Louis Stevenson

Up in the air so blue?
Oh, I do think it the pleasantest thing
Ever a child can do!

“The Firelight Fairy Book” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow

They tell me that my aunt is here,
But I cannot find her near,
If she were to be found, I should see her coming by,
To look in my searching eye,
And call me where she sat.
She came, I know not when— But ah, she went!

“The Moon and Her Mother” by A.A. Milne

The moon’s the North Wind’s cookie.
He bites it, day by day,
Until there’s but a rim of scraps
That crumble all away.

“The Sandman” by Margaret Wise Brown

The Sandman is here to close your eyes,
He sprinkles the sand in your little eyes,
He closes your eyes with a kiss.
He tells you sweet dreams will soon be near,
Now, little child, close your eyes and sleep.

“Dreams” by Langston Hughes

Hold fast to dreams
For if dreams die
Life is a broken-winged bird
That cannot fly.

“The Land of Story-Books” by Robert Louis Stevenson

At evening when the lamp is lit,
Around the fire my parents sit;
They sit at home and talk and sing,
And do not play at anything.

“The Swing of Things” by Shel Silverstein

The swing was hanging from a tree
And I sat down and said to myself,
As lonely as lonely could be,
“Is there nobody else in the world but myself Just playing a game like me?”
And I know nobody, nobody, nobody else in the world, That’s not even me.

How To Use These Bedtime Poems

As a mom of three, I’ve certainly had my fair share of tough bedtime battles with my kids. I vividly recall nights when it felt like bedtime would never arrive, and my little ones were determined to stay up past their usual hours. It was during these challenging moments that I began to appreciate the significance of bedtime routines and the soothing power of bedtime poems.

My personal journey through countless bedtime struggles led me to discover that these routines aren’t just a luxury; they are a necessity for both kids and parents. It became clear that establishing a structured routine, complete with calming poems and stories, was the key to transforming bedtime chaos into peaceful slumber.

These insights, born out of my own experiences, have guided my approach to bedtime with my children and have been invaluable in creating a serene bedtime environment.

Bedtime poems can be a wonderful addition to your toddler’s bedtime routine. They can help your child relax and wind down, easing the transition from playtime to sleep. Here are some tips for using bedtime poems with your toddler:

1. Choose the Right Poems: When selecting poems to read to your toddler, consider their age and interests. Choose poems with simple language and themes that will capture their attention. You can opt for classic poems or children’s poems, or look for a collection of poems that includes a variety of styles and topics.
2. Use Different Types of Poems: Variety is key when it comes to bedtime poems. While classic poems may be a great choice, funny poems can also be a great way to engage your toddler’s imagination and sense of humor. Consider alternating between serious and silly poems to keep things fresh.
3. Create a Peaceful Environment: To create a relaxing bedtime environment, dim the lights and create a cozy atmosphere. You can use a small lamp or a candle for soft lighting. This will help your toddler feel calm and ready for sleep.
4. Incorporate Physical Touch: Physical touch is a great way to help your toddler feel safe and secure. You can hold your child’s hand or stroke their hair while reading the poems. This will help your toddler relax and feel loved.
5. End with a Good Night: After reading the poems, say good night to your toddler and give them a kiss or a hug. Encourage them to close their eyes and imagine happy thoughts as they drift off to sleep. Sweet words like “golden sleepy-sand” and “happy next day” can help create a positive atmosphere.

Creating an Effective Bedtime Routine

A well-crafted bedtime routine can make a world of difference in helping your child settle down for a peaceful night’s sleep. In this section, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to create an effective bedtime routine, covering everything from selecting suitable poems to addressing common bedtime challenges.

Selecting Suitable Bedtime Poems

The choice of bedtime poems can play a crucial role in setting the right tone for your child’s bedtime routine. Here are some tips for selecting suitable poems:

• Age-Appropriate Poems: Choose poems that are age-appropriate and align with your child’s interests and reading level. Younger children may enjoy short and rhyming poems, while older kids may appreciate longer narratives.
• Themes and Emotions: Consider the themes and emotions conveyed in the poems. Opt for those that promote relaxation, comfort, and positivity. Poems about nature, dreams, and gentle adventures are often ideal choices.
• Engaging Illustrations: If possible, select poems with engaging illustrations or visuals that can capture your child’s imagination and enhance their bedtime experience.

Creating a Calming Atmosphere

A soothing environment is key to a successful bedtime routine. Here’s how you can create a calming atmosphere:

• Dim the Lights: As bedtime approaches, gradually dim the lights in your child’s room. Soft, warm lighting can help signal that it’s time to wind down.
• Comfortable Bedding: Ensure your child’s bed is comfortable and inviting. Soft pillows, cozy blankets, and their favorite stuffed animals can make bedtime more appealing.
• Temperature Control: Keep the room at a comfortable temperature, not too hot or too cold. This can contribute to a restful night’s sleep.
• Gentle Sounds: Soft, calming sounds, such as gentle lullabies or nature sounds, can create a tranquil atmosphere that encourages relaxation.

Addressing Common Bedtime Challenges

Bedtime routines may not always go smoothly, and common challenges can arise. Here’s how to address them:

• Resistance to Bedtime: If your child resists going to bed, gently explain the importance of sleep and the benefits of a consistent bedtime routine. Consistency is key to overcoming resistance.
• Nighttime Fears: Address nighttime fears with reassurance and comfort. A nightlight or a special “monster-check” routine can help alleviate fears.
• Bedtime Separation Anxiety: If your child experiences separation anxiety at bedtime, gradually introduce a comforting bedtime ritual that involves both of you, such as reading a bedtime poem together.
• Bedtime Routines for Different Ages: Keep in mind that the ideal bedtime routine can vary with your child’s age. Infants may need a shorter and simpler routine, while older children may benefit from more elaborate rituals.

Remember that every child is unique, and it may take some trial and error to find the perfect bedtime routine that works for your family. The key is to create a routine that promotes relaxation, bonding, and a sense of security, making bedtime a cherished and peaceful time for both you and your child. [Source A Clinical Guide to Pediatric Sleep: Diagnosis and Management of Sleep Problems]

More On Raising Kids You Might Like

• Prayers for Kids to Say Before Bed
• Calming Bedtime Games Toddlers Love
• How To Create A Routine To Calm Your Kid Down at Bedtime (And Go To Sleep Nicely)
• Inspirational Poems For Parents
• How To Stop Your Toddler From Climbing Out Of The Crib

Resources

1. Mindell and Williamson (2017) emphasize the importance of a consistent bedtime routine for not only healthy sleep but also broader developmental and well-being aspects in early childhood. Activities like reading and singing lullabies, which are common in bedtime routines, contribute to positive developmental outcomes beyond improved sleep, including language development, literacy, and emotional regulation (Mindell & Williamson, 2017).
2. Sharon Writer (2018) discusses the significant cultural and psychological impact of bedtime stories, not just as a cultural practice but as a tool for cognitive, social, and psychological development in children. The narrative of bedtime stories has shown to have long-lasting developmental and therapeutic effects (Writer, 2018).
3. Busch et al. (2017) found that interventions aiming to stimulate healthy sleeping in school-aged children were most effective when they included creating daily healthy routines. This reinforces the importance of incorporating activities like bedtime poetry reading into a child’s nightly routine (Busch et al., 2017).
4. Mindell et al. (2015) demonstrate a dose-dependent relationship between consistent bedtime routines and improved sleep outcomes in young children. The study suggests that the more consistently a bedtime routine (including reading) is instituted and the younger it is started, the better the sleep outcomes (Mindell et al., 2015).
5. Sanberg et al. (2018) highlight the effectiveness of Bedtime Fading with Response Cost (BFRC) in decreasing sleep disturbances in children. This study shows the importance of structured bedtime routines, potentially including reading and poetry, in improving sleep patterns in children (Sanberg et al., 2018).