A Cozy Bedtime with If Animals Kissed Good Night
As a mom, I cherish those rare moments when I can cuddle up with my little ones after a busy day. Bedtime has its own rhythm—sinks into the soft sighs and sleepy giggles. Recently, I stumbled upon If Animals Kissed Good Night by Ann Whitford Paul, and let me tell you, it has quickly become a cherished part of our evening routine.
This delightful board book invites readers into the whimsical world of bedtime rituals among various animals. Picture giraffes stretching their necks high, or a bear and her cub sharing a growl after a goodnight kiss. It’s a playful and heartwarming imagining of how our favorite creatures might say “night-night.” With approximately 3 million copies in print, this book truly captures the magic of bedtime, and it resonates with parents and toddlers alike.
During our first reading, my youngest, who is two, was absolutely captivated. The rhythmic, rhyming text flows effortlessly, making it perfect for read-alouds. “Did you hear that?” she’d whisper at the mention of a howling wolf, giggling as I mimicked the sound. Just that simple connection made me realize how beautifully the book encourages interaction. My older child, who is four, loved the illustrations by David Walker—each page bursting with color and whimsy. The two of them giggled over the sloth still saying “night-night” long after all the other animals were tucked in. It sparked discussions about our own bedtime and what animals do to show affection.
One favorite illustration was of the penguins snuggled together with their babies, prompting my kiddos to snuggle tighter under the blanket. “Can we kiss like that?” they asked me, and I felt a rush of love and warmth. Those sweet, innocent questions remind me why reading together is so important. It’s not just about the stories; it’s about the connections we forge along the way.
This book does more than entertain; it teaches as well. As each pair of animals kisses goodnight, children are introduced to animal names, sounds, and even the names of their babies. My little ones were keen to point out the silliness of how animals say goodnight compared to their own bedtime rituals, reminding me how important it is to connect literature with real-life experiences.
I wholeheartedly recommend If Animals Kissed Good Night for kiddos aged baby to 3 years. It’s perfect for parents looking to instill a love of reading in their little ones or simply wanting to snag a moment of tranquility as the day winds down. The playful rhymes and engaging illustrations make it a keeper in our collection.
In a world that can feel chaotic, finding a quiet moment with a book that sparks joy and connection is priceless. Born out of a busy, often loud household, this gentle tale has nestled its way into our hearts, making it a staple in our nightly routine. If you’re looking for a new bedtime favorite, this one deserves a spot on your shelf—and maybe even a place in your heart.✨
