Sleep scientist reveals how bedtime stories improve the sleep quality and well-being of children
Struggling to get the kids to sleep? A simple bedtime story could be the answer.
More than half of parents say reading before bed helps their children relax and nod off more easily.1
To explain why, the experts at Mattress Online have highlighted the powerful role bedtime stories play in supporting children’s sleep and overall well-being.
From fairy tales passed down through generations to modern classics, bedtime stories have long been a cherished part of the evening routine. But beyond their nostalgic value, reading to children before bed can have lasting benefits for their sleep, emotional health, and even academic performance.
To help understand the impact bedtime stories have on children’s sleep, Hannah Shore, Head of Sleep Science at Mattress Online, has provided the following insight:
Stories as sleep cues
Establishing a calming bedtime routine as early as three months old has been shown to improve sleep outcomes later in life. These routines are associated with fewer night time awakenings, fewer sleep problems, and longer overall sleep durations.2
Hannah comments: “A bedtime story is the go-to wind-down routine for lots of parents. Tried, tested, and passed down through generations. Having a good wind-down routine before bed allows the body and brain to relax and calm down. This calm time tells the body it should start to get ready for sleep, slowing down that heart rate, bringing that core body temperature down, and relaxing the mind – all signals to help prompt the body to start producing sleep hormones, such as melatonin.”
Story time vs. screen time
In today’s digital world, many children fall asleep to screens – but this can work against the body’s natural sleep signals. Blue light emitted from phones and tablets can suppress melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall and stay asleep. In contrast, the ritual of storytelling – often shared in a cosy, screen-free setting – encourages both physical and mental relaxation.
The benefits beyond bedtime
Reading stories regularly has been shown to significantly boost language skills, including vocabulary, pronunciation, and even creativity. Children exposed to consistent bedtime storytelling often demonstrate greater fluency, self-confidence, and academic readiness.3
Best types of bedtime books
Certain types of bedtime books are particularly effective in promoting calmness and improved sleep. Gentle, predictable stories with soothing rhythms or repetition help signal to the brain that it’s time to wind down. Nature-themed tales, books with low-stimulation visuals, and stories that gently explore emotions can also support relaxation and emotional regulation.
Hannah summarises:
“In a world of distractions and screen time, the simple ritual of a bedtime story can be incredibly powerful. Not only does it support healthier sleep, but it also strengthens the bond between parent and child, creating a sense of safety and calm that’s essential for emotional wellbeing.”
Visit the Mattress Online blog for tips on how much sleep children need.