A collection of soothing stories and effective relaxation techniques from world sleep expert Alice Gregory and children's writer Christy Kirkpatrick.

Warm, soothing tales about sleepy Pebble, Grandfather Oak, cute snail Ole, cheerful giraffe Gabrielle and funny pig The fields will calm the child and help him fall asleep.

The stories are developed based on scientific research, recommendations from sleep specialists and psychologists. Each of them combines three elements that are useful for relaxation:

• Imagination: the child will be able to imagine the event described in the fairy tale in great detail. The imaginary picture will captivate him, and there is no room for disturbing thoughts.

• Muscle relaxation exercises are an effective non-drug method of combating insomnia.

• Mindfulness practices - slowing down, staying in the moment. Being in the moment means noticing, firstly, your own physical sensations, secondly, the thoughts that come to mind, and thirdly, the surrounding environment (for example, air temperature or sounds). Non-judgmental attention will reduce the level of anxiety and relax the baby.

At the end of the book there are tips for parents. You will learn what a “sleeping pill” diet is, what role coolness and dim light play in successful bedtime when you need to go to bed.

In the process of working on the book, the authors conducted a study in which 100 families with children from 3 to 11 years. Parents were asked to read the first version of the story “The Sleepy Pebble” to their children three evenings in a row. Participants were then asked to answer questions, the main one being, “In general, how did reading the story affect your child's sleep?” Judging by the responses, 80 out of 104 children (77%) had a positive effect.

Get under the covers quickly - “Sleepy Tales” awaits you! Good night and sweet dreams.

From the authors

We recommend choosing one fairy tale every evening and reading it just before bed. When it's time to read, ask your child to lie down, close his eyes and be silent for a while. Try to read in an even, soothing voice, slowly and quietly. Explain that this is a special, “sleepy” book, that it is unlike the ones you usually read, and that you should listen to it while lying in bed. Stories and practices will help your child relax before bed. After finishing reading the story, you need to turn off the light and try to keep the bedroom quiet. It's time to wish sweet dreams to children.

Who is this book for?

For children aged 3 years and older and parents who want to help their child relax before bed.