There’s something magical about bedtime stories. They help children slow down, feel safe and connected, and prepare for sleep in a calm and comforting way. That’s why we love seeing Elmer Day celebrating not only creativity and friendship, but also the importance of healthy bedtime routines.
This year, The Sleep Charity has teamed up with Elmer the Patchwork Elephant to create a lovely bedtime trail designed to help families build positive sleep habits in a fun and engaging way. Inspired by the much-loved storybook character created by David McKee, the trail encourages children to wind down step-by-step before sleep.
Why bedtime routines matter
Children thrive on routine. Having a predictable and calming bedtime routine helps signal to the brain and body that it’s time to sleep. Over time, these repeated steps can make bedtime feel easier, calmer and more enjoyable for the whole family.
Simple activities such as dimming the lights, reading together or having a warm bath can help children relax and support the production of melatonin — the hormone that helps us feel sleepy.
The Elmer Bedtime Trail brings these sleep-friendly habits to life in a playful, child-friendly way.
What is the Elmer Bedtime Trail?
The Bedtime Trail is a gentle checklist of calming evening activities that children can follow alongside Elmer. It turns getting ready for bed into a positive adventure rather than a battle.
Some of the steps include:
- Tidying toys away
- Switching off screens and dimming the lights
- Enjoying quiet play like colouring or puzzles
- Having a bath
- Brushing teeth
- Reading a bedtime story together
- Singing a lullaby or calming song
- Snuggling down for sleep
The idea is simple: small calming actions, repeated consistently, can make a big difference to sleep.
Why Elmer is the perfect bedtime companion
Children connect with characters they know and love, and Elmer’s warm, colourful world creates the perfect atmosphere for bedtime calm.
The story Elmer and the Bedtime Story follows Elmer as he helps two baby elephants settle down for sleep through stories and gentle bedtime moments. It’s a lovely reminder that bedtime is about connection, comfort and feeling secure.
Reading together at bedtime can also:
- Strengthen emotional bonds
- Reduce stress and anxiety
- Support language and literacy development
- Create positive associations with sleep
Most importantly, it gives children time to feel calm, reassured and ready for rest.
Creating calmer evenings at home
You don’t need a perfect routine to support better sleep. Even small changes can help.
Here are a few simple ideas inspired by the Elmer Bedtime Trail:
- Keep bedtime at a similar time each night
- Reduce screen use at least an hour before bed
- Create a calm sleep environment with dim lighting
- Include quiet, relaxing activities before sleep
- End the day with cuddles, stories and connection
- Talk about positive moments from the day
The key is consistency. Repeating the same calming steps each evening helps children know what to expect and feel more settled at bedtime.
Join the Elmer Day celebrations
Elmer Day is all about kindness, inclusivity, imagination and fun – and this bedtime collaboration is a wonderful reminder that healthy sleep habits can be playful too.
Families, schools and libraries can all get involved with activities, storytelling and bedtime resources inspired by Elmer.
You can find out more about Elmer Day activities and resources and explore The Sleep Charity’s sleep support for families at The Sleep Charity. Elmer x The Sleep Charity Checklist (1 download )