Oliver learns that bedtime has a calm, predictable order, and his body can feel safe when he knows what comes next.
The sun was saying goodnight, painting the sky orange and pink. Oliver felt a little flutter in his tummy. Playtime was ending, and the house was getting quieter. The bright ceiling lights clicked off, and the soft lamp by the couch glowed on. Things were changing, and Oliver noticed every single one.
Mama’s voice was soft like a blanket. “It’s time for our bedtime steps, Oliver,” she said. “First, we wash up.” The bathroom light was just right—not too bright. Oliver liked the cool, smooth feel of the sink. He splashed water on his face. Splish, splash. It was a clear, first step.
Next, pajamas! Oliver put on his favorite pair. They were blue with tiny rockets. The fabric felt soft and fuzzy against his skin. He did a little wiggle dance. Mama smiled. “Comfy?” she asked. Oliver nodded. The wiggly feeling in his tummy was getting smaller.
Now, brushing teeth. The toothbrush buzzed a friendly buzz. Oliver liked the tickly feeling on his teeth and the minty taste. He brushed in little circles, just like Mama showed him. Buzz, buzz, brush, brush. Another step was done. Things were happening in the right order.
They walked to the big, cozy chair. “One quiet story,” Mama said, just like every night. She read a book about a bear finding a honey tree. Oliver listened to her steady voice and looked at the colorful pictures. His breathing felt slow and easy.
Story finished. Oliver reached for Nelly, his soft blue elephant. He gave Nelly a big, squishy hug. Nelly smelled like home and clean laundry. Oliver hugged Nelly tight, and Nelly hugged him back with her floppy ears. It was a perfect hug.
Mama lifted the covers on Oliver’s bed. They made a soft, whispery sound. Oliver climbed in with Nelly. The sheets were cool at first, then warm from his own cozy body. Mama tucked the blanket around him, just snug enough.
The room was dim and quiet. Oliver knew all the steps were finished. Bathroom, pajamas, brushing, story, hug, bed. His body felt heavy and safe, like a sock filled with warm rice. The fluttery feeling was all gone.
Mama kissed his forehead. “Goodnight, Oliver. I love you.” Oliver hugged Nelly and smiled a sleepy smile. He knew what came next: sweet dreams. And tomorrow, the sun would rise, and their cozy steps would happen all over again. Everything was in its right place.