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LET’S DISCUSS THE STORIES ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Family

1. In this story, the whole family try to help Jabulani’s shoe. What are some other ways that people in families sometimes help each other?

Empathy

1. Why do you think the puppy dog used the shoe for its babies? Do you think this was this a good way to use the shoe?

Bedtime Story written by Elana Bregan

Illustrated by Nicki Blackbeard

Designed by Kathryn Elliott

Edited by Mariam Mahomed

Music Video by “Crinoline Dreams” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

* THE STORY ‘WHO TOOK MY SHOE?’ WAS CREATED BY BOOK DASH AND IS LICENSED UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS ATTRIBUTION 4.0 LICENSE. MINOR FORMATTING CHANGES MAY HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE ORIGINAL WORK FOR EASE OF READING ON OUR WEBSITE.

The post Who Took My Shoe? first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

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LET’S DISCUSS THE STORIES ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Love, Family, Conversation

1. Do you have a special person in your family who is your best friend? What kinds of things do you like to do together?

2. Can you describe the Best Day In the World that you could spend with this special person? What would you do, from breakfast until bedtime?

Bedtime Story written by Rayhaanah Williams

Illustrated by Clyde Beech

Designed by Jacqui Botha

Edited by Angela Briggs

Music Video by “Fuzzball Parade” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ and additional music from: https://www.zapsplat.com/

* THE STORY ‘WHAT’S NEXT?’ WAS CREATED BY BOOK DASH AND IS LICENSED UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS ATTRIBUTION 4.0 LICENSE. MINOR FORMATTING CHANGES MAY HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE ORIGINAL WORK FOR EASE OF READING ON OUR WEBSITE.

The post What’s Next? first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Grandparents play a role in our lives that no other relative or loved one can fill. They connect us to our past and help us appreciate our present. Plus, they just know a lot of stuff. Here are 10 of our picks for grandparents who want to connect with their grandkids—and vice versa.

The Remember Balloons by Jessie Oliveros and Dana Wulfekotte

“In this gentle and compassionate allegory for Alzheimer’s disease, James struggles to collect the memory balloons his grandfather lets go of, one by one. Pretty soon, he has enough of his own to share. Heartwarmingly told and lovingly illustrated.” Storyberries

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The Hello, Goodbye Window by Norton Juster and Chris Raschka

“The kitchen window at Nanna and Poppy’s house is a magical portal for their granddaughter to travel into other worlds. But she might discover along the way that the most magical things are the things she encounters at home every day.”
Storyberries

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How to Babysit a Grandpa & How to Babysit a Grandma by Jean Reagan and Lee Wildish

“There are lots of ways to spend a fun day with Grandpa or Grandma—but sometimes a kid needs all the ideas in one place! Enter these charming how-to books with suggestions ranging from topping cookies with ice cream to picking dandelions and putting on a scary play.” Storyberries

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I Really Want to See You, Grandma by Taro Gomi

“Yumi and her grandmother decide to spend some time together—so each heads out to visit the other, only to pass each other right by! The same thing happens when they decide to head home. Will they ever connect?”
Storyberries

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Hey Grandude by Paul McCartney and Kathryn Durst

“In this whimsical story written by none other than Paul McCartney and illustrated by Kathryn Durst, a grandfather takes his four grandchildren on a journey through time with his magic compass. Sure to win the hearts of all generations.”
Storyberries

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If All the World Were… by Joseph Coelho and Allison Colpoys

“A gentle story of the love between a little girl and her grandfather and the way she learns to cope with his death. Perfect for readers of all ages as they learn how to cherish loved ones both here and gone.”
Storyberries

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Grandma Bird by Benji Davies

“Noi’s grandmother lives on an island where strange things seem to happen all the time. Noi hesitates to visit—until a rescue mission raises the stakes. A fun and adventurous tale of inter-generational friendship.”
Storyberries

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Just Grandma and Me by Mercer Mayer

“From beloved children’s author and illustrator Mercer Mayer comes the story of the Little Critters spending an eventful day at the beach. Readers of all ages will love this book.” Storyberries

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Grandpa Green by Lane Smith

“Grandpa Green has lived many lives: farm boy, soldier, artist—and now gardener. Follow his grandson on a journey through a garden of memories to understand his grandfather’s unique history, and how he himself is a part of it.” Storyberries

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Spot Visits His Grandparents by Eric Hill

“Spot the lift-the-flap dog is back to spend the day with his grandparents. He’ll hear stories, help in the garden, play with the ball, and maybe break a shed window along the way…never a dull moment, as readers will discover!”
Storyberries

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Free Online Children’s Books About Grandparents At Storyberries

Grandma On A Windy Beach

A beautifully poetic journey into the life of a Grandma including recollections of her life as a young girl. With its gorgeous illustrations, this tender and joyful story will warm everyone’s heart. The audio version of the story narrated here is quite magical.

Grandpa Farouk’s Garden

Amir loves to visit Grandpa Farouk, and especially enjoys spending time in his garden. When the garden begins to suffer, Amir helps to collect ladybirds, to encourage natural healing and promote new fresh growth.

Grandma’s Glasses

Grandma is always forgetting where she’s left her glasses, and without her glasses, she can’t see to find them again! Luckily, Nicha is there to play detective for her!

The post Top 10 Books About Grandparents first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

© Storyberries 2022

LET’S CHAT ABOUT THE STORY ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Love, Family, Friendship

1. What do you think is your magic light? How do you share it with others?

2. Why do you think our magic light can spread from one person to another?

3. Another word for your magic light might be “love”. How do you feel when you love others? How about when they love you?

4. Do you think it’s nice to have the most love in the world that we can? Why or why not?

Bedtime Story for Kids written by Jade Maitre

Illustrated by Yesim Serce

Book design by Jade Maitre

Music Video by Fireflies and Stardust Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

The post Your Magic Light first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Families come in different packages, and they are so much more than the sum of their parts. Here are ten books–heartfelt and humorous, factual and fantastical–that will remind you, your child, and all your loved ones of the extraordinary bond of family.

“We Are Family” by Patricia Hegarty and Ryan Wheatcroft

“This book details the good and bad times that tie families of all kinds together regardless of how many people they are or how they look. Its colorful, bright, and engaging layout will allow readers young and old to connect with the many different kinds of people they see in its pages. A beautifully-rendered collection with an affirming message”.Storyberries

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“A Family Is a Family Is a Family” by Sara Oleary and Qin Lang

“Follow along as the students in a class describe what makes their families special, and the myriad forms a family can take. In the end, one child who is nervous to share the differences between her family and others learns that hers is just as valid because it is filled with love and care ” Storyberries

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“The Family Book” by Todd Parr

“Every family is different–the way they look, the way they interact, the problems they have, the things they value–but all are equally important, legitimate, and worthy of love. Such is the message of this attention-grabbing book. The outrageously fun colour scheme and joyously-drawn characters might make you forget how deep the lesson goes.” Storyberries

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“Love Makes a Family” by Sophie Beer

“This book describes all the ways love manifests in everyday life, from baking a cake to lending a hand. And no matter what your family looks like, it’s a bona-fide family if it’s got love. Your child will be so happy hearing you read this aloud–after all, quality reading time is a beautiful way to show your love.” Storyberries

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“Drawn together” by Minh Le and Dan Santat

“Can you really be a family if you don’t speak a common language? This beautifully gentle book proves that you can–especially if you’ve got paper and pencils on hand. A touching tale of the power of the family bond as expressed through art and nonverbal communication.” Storyberries

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“The Relatives Came” by Cynthia Rylant and Stephen Gammell

“A story that will ring true to long-distance families scattered across the globe! When the relatives arrive for the summer, it’s all fun and games–so much so that it feels like hardly five minutes before they have to leave again. But there’s always next summer, right? The perfect read for anyone who doesn’t get enough time with their loved ones.” Storyberries

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“Our Family Tree: An Evolution Story” by Lisa Westberg Peters

“This book takes us way back in time to the beginning of the family tree we all share. With enrapturing illustrations and words that will make you feel a part of something bigger, it’s sure to become a family favourite. It’s truly a story with a heart, a soul, and a brain–not to mention deep, deep roots.” Storyberries

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“The Snow Globe Family” by Jane O’Connor and S.D. Schindler

“Two families form the heart of this story–the little family who long for a blizzard in their snow-globe home, and the big family who don’t seem to notice. All except for Baby, that is, who resolves to shake up both the little family’s world and her own. An original tale that, no matter how snowy, will warm your family’s hearts.” Storyberries

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“One family” by George Shannon and Blanca Gomez

“There are a lot of us, but we are also one – one world, one family–you name it. This endearingly-drawn and lovingly-rendered book reminds us of all the little things that can unite us. A book to treasure.” Storyberries

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“Still a Family: A Story about Homelessness” by Brenda Reeves Sturgis and Jo Shin Lee

“This moving and timely story tells of a family who are forced to move into a shelter–two shelters, actually, as a father must live separate from his wife and daughter. Still, they find time and space to be together, often in the park, and they grow closer as they share a fervent wish to be reunited under a roof of their own. The perfect addition to a modern family bookshelf.” Storyberries

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Some Mummies

A celebratory look at the different ways that mummies show their love and care. A beautiful appreciation of the possibilities of motherhood, which also allows pause for reflection.

To The Top

“A wordless picture book showing a girl and her dad climbing a mountain. With its beautiful images this creative book invites you to make up your very own story.” Storyberries

Pembral Forgets

Pembral is a good boy with a very forgetful mind. He forgets all kinds of things, yet despite this forgetfulness being a challenge, his mum shows lots of patience and kindness. One day Pembral is asked to buy some important things from the store – will he remember?

The post Top 10 Books About Families first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Families that choose to separate for whatever reason can experience a variety of difficult emotions. But there is room for understanding, kindness, and reassurance. Here are 10 of our picks for shepherding kids through a time that might be hard on families, but also a way to prove their love for one another.

“Two Homes Filled with Love” by Steve Herman

“Drew and his dragon Diggory Doo, step in to help a friend who is struggling with living in two homes with separated parents. This is a compassionate and gentle guide to helping a kid overcome an intimidating, but not insurmountable, challenge.”
Storyberries

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“I Don’t Want to Talk About It” by Jeanie Franz Ransom and Kathryn Kunz Finney

“News of a divorce is a big deal for a kid; it might make them want to roar like a lion, or hide like a fish in the sea, or fly away like a bird. But with thoughtfulness and honesty from their parents, they can come to understand that after the event happens, the love their parents have for them will never change.”
Storyberries

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“Teacup” by Rebecca Young and Matt Ottley

“A boy sets out for a new home, carrying a teacup full of earth from his old one. This beautiful picture book evokes all the turbulence, anxiety, and transformative power of any big life change, and shows kids there’s a way to meet those changes head-on.” Storyberries

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“Mum and Dad Glue” by Kes Gray and Lee Wildish

“The hero of this story is looking for a pot of ‘parent glue’ to stick his mum and dad back together after they come apart. This book, with a sympathetic and relatable metaphor, provides a great example of the growing a family can do together even when relationships get broken.”
Storyberries

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“Hello Jimmy!” by Anna Walker

“When a parrot named Jimmy shows up on the doorstep, Jack’s dad can’t get enough of him. Jack, though, isn’t quite so pleased. This charmingly illustrated book shows the strength and importance of the relationship between a boy and his father.”
Storyberries

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“Here and There” by Tamara Ellis Smith and Evelyn Daviddi

“Children ages 3-8 and their parents will particularly love this story of young Ivan, who finds refuge from the chaos of his parents’ separation in the majesty of nature. A richly colored meditation on the people, and things, that are always there for us.”
Storyberries

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“When My Parents Forgot How to Be Friends” by Jennifer Moore-Mallinos and Marta Fabrega

“This book tells the comforting story of parents who continue to love their child even after they stop getting along with each other. Children will enjoy listening and looking at the pictures while their parents read aloud.”
Storyberries

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“Standing on My Own Two Feet” by Tamara Schmitz

Having two homes can be just like having two feet—making you stronger. That’s what Addison learns when his parents split up. Kids and parents will be charmed and uplifted by this story of a loving family who simply look a little different than they used to.
Storyberries

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“Fred Stays With Me!” by Nancy Coffelt and Tricia Tusa

“When parents split and move into separate spaces, where does the dog go? The child in this book is determined to stay close to her dog no matter what. With a childlike voice and touching illustrations, this book addresses the less-often-discussed issue of how family separations affect the animals in their lives.”
Storyberries

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“Two Homes” by Claire Masurel and Steve Herman

“Life is different at Mom’s house than at Dad’s house. The changes from one to the other can be confusing. Luckily, one thing never changes, and that is the love that both Mom and Dad have for their kid. The bright colors and comforting words of this book will reassure kids that a divorce need not be as scary as it sounds.”
Storyberries

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Free Online Books From Storyberries About Divorce & Separation

The Letter

In this thoughtful and beautifully illustrated story, Julia decides to write her parents a letter, to tell them how angry and distressed she feels when they keep arguing.

All Aboard

When parents divorce or separate, children often have to deal with moving house and school. Although this book is not about family breakup, it may be reassuring for kids who are changing school.

The Book On The Top Shelf

Galen and his dad both miss Galen’s mum. A beautiful book for helping children to express the sadness, and other emotions they feel when they miss someone they love.

The post Top 10 Books about Divorce and Separation first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

Let’s Chat About The Stories ~ Ideas for Talking With Kids

Family, Conversation

1. In this story, Zahra’s grandmother teaches her about her very special smelling skill. Can you think of some skills that your grandparents have?

2. If your grandparents were to teach you their special skill, how do you think they might teach you?

3. Are there some questions you’d like to ask about their special skill?

Bedtime Story written by Meera Ganapathi and illustrated by Nancy Raj

Other Credits:

Music Video by Hamster March Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), Comic Hero Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Big Mojo” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Dhaka” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), “Naraina” Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com), Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

The Nose of all Noses is written by Meera Ganapathi. © Pratham Books , 2019. Some rights reserved. Released under CC BY 4.0 license.

‘The Nose of all Noses” is published by Pratham Books. The development of this book has been supported by Parag, an initiative of Tata Trusts and EdelGive Foundation. www.prathambooks.org

* THE STORY ‘THE NOSE OF ALL NOSES’ WAS CREATED BY PRATHAM BOOKS AND IS LICENSED UNDER A CREATIVE COMMONS -BY-4.0 LICENSE. FORMATTING CHANGES HAVE BEEN MADE TO THE ORIGINAL WORK FOR EASE OF READING ON OUR WEBSITE.

The post The Nose of All Noses first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

© Storyberries 2022

LET’S CHAT ABOUT THE STORY ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Family, Kindness

1. Why do you think people celebrate Mother’s Day?

2. What is the same about all the different things that Leah dreams up as a gift for her mother?

3. Do you think Leah’s ideas are good ideas for a present? Why or why not?

Short Story for Kids written by Andrea Kaczmarek

Illustrations purchased under license

Book design by Jade Maitre

Music Video from zapsplat.com

The post A Hug Is Enough first appeared on Bedtime Stories.

© Storyberries 2022

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LET’S CHAT ABOUT THE STORY ~ IDEAS FOR TALKING WITH KIDS

Conversation, Family

1. What is your favourite thing to do with your Mummy?

2. What do you think is your Mummy’s favourite thing to do with you?

Bedtime Story for Kids written by Jade Maitre

Illustrated by Oceanoart (under license)

Book design by Jade Maitre

Music Video by Fireflies and Stardust Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 License, http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

The post Some Mummies first appeared on Bedtime Stories.