Sometimes children find it confusing when it is bedtime but the sky is still bright outside. They may think it is still daytime and wonder why they need to go to bed. This social story helps children understand why the sun stays out later during summer and reassures them that it is still time for sleep, even when it is light outside.
Who is this social story for?
This story is especially helpful for autistic and neurodivergent children, and any child who finds it difficult to understand summer bedtimes, longer daylight hours, or changes to their usual bedtime cues.
When can I use this social story?
Use this story during the summer months, before bedtime, when discussing bedtime routines, or whenever a child is finding it difficult to go to bed because it is still light outside.
What does this story help with?
- understanding why it stays light later in summer
- learning that bedtime is based on the clock and routine, not the sunlight
- understanding why sleep is important for growing and learning
- accepting bedtime when it is still bright outside
- using simple coping strategies such as closing curtains
- feeling calm and confident at bedtime during long summer days
