Wink: Stories for Better Bedtimes

In a colorful coral reef where everyone plays tag, Cedric the seahorse feels too slow to join in—until he introduces a new game called hide and seek. When Cedric’s natural camouflage makes him impossible to find, the reef learns that everyone belongs, just as they are. With playful underwater sound effects, positive messages about friendship, and a guided breathing exercise at the end, this story is perfect for winding down at bedtime or during quiet time. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Show your child how to catch a warm breath on their hand. 2) Model the breathing technique for your child. 3) Prompt your child with specific friends he/she can imagine. 4) Say the affirmations with your child. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories or on our Substack - Parenting with Wink: Bedtime Stories and Beyond. https://winkbedtimestories.substack.com/publish/post/190425246?back=%2Fpublish%2Fposts%2Fdrafts Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson and Roman Russell.

Snatchasaurus keeps grabbing things he likes—lollipops, swings, brownies, even his teacher’s mustache—without thinking, leaving his classmates upset and confused. When his teacher explains that sometimes hands are faster than brains, Snatchasaurus realizes he’s been snatching without meaning to and learns a song to help him stop and think. Later, when he wants to grab a ball, he pauses, counts to three, and asks to join the game instead—proving he can change. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Model the breathing technique for your child. 2) Use your fingers to show 1, 2, 3. 3) Trace your fingers and breathe as you trace. 4) Repeat the phrases with your child. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories of on our Substack - Parenting with Wink: Bedtime Stories and Beyond https://winkbedtimestories.substack.com/publish/post/190425169?back=%2Fpublish%2Fposts%2Fdrafts Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Music by Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson and Roman Russell.

When Ibbity sets out to find the strongest thing in the world, he meets trees, wind, hills, and tigers — each stronger than the last, but none believe they are the strongest of all. The reimagined folk tale follows Ibbity's journey which leads him to find out the truth about curiosity and the power of asking questions. Followed by a guided mindfulness activity with breathing and tapping to help little ones settle into calm. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Point to an item in the room that answers each question. 2) Model the breathing technique for your child. 3) Use your fingers to count the breaths. 4) Tap your own chest to the rhythm to show your child what it looks like. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories or on our Substack - Parenting with Wink: Bedtime Stories and Beyond Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Hayden Thompson. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson and Roman Russell.

Gertrude is a dragon who desperately wants to breathe fire like the others, but no matter how hard she tries, only flowers come out. Afraid she doesn’t belong, she faces the annual dragon celebration expecting rejection—only to discover that her flowers make the mountains more beautiful than flames ever could. In the end, Gertrude learns that being different is not a flaw, but a gift that makes the world brighter. This story was inspired by a storytelling friend from India. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Model resting without worry. 2) Model the flower breath for your child. 3) Hold up a finger for each breath. 4) Whisper, "I belong," with your child. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook @ wink-bedtime-stories, and on Substack: Parenting with Wink: Bedtime Stories and Beyond. Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, Taehyeon (Ted) Kim, and Gracie Davis. Music by Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

When Flossie the flamingo hatches under the moon, she decides she will fly there one day. She practices flying farther and farther—across a stream, a pond, a lake, and even through the night—but discovers she cannot reach the moon, no matter how hard she tries. Through deep breaths and reflection, Flossie learns that even if a dream changes, she is stronger because she tried. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Model standing like a flamingo in a slow relaxed yoga type of movement. 2) Model the wing flapping in a slow yoga type movement. 3) Model the deep breathing for your child. 4) Tap your own heart beat with your child. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories and on Substack - Parenting with Wink: Bedtime Stories and Beyond Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

In this reimagined folktale from the Philippines a young boy eagerly goes to the market to buy ten coconuts for his mom and decides to run home to prove he can be fast. Each time he rushes, his cart crashes and the coconuts scatter, forcing him to gather and restack them again. By the time he finally arrives home just before sunset—tired but successful—he learns that hurrying an important job can actually slow you down. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Model slow, pushups against the wall or on the bed for your child. 2) Pretend to put 10 round coconuts on your child's chest for the breathing exercise. 3) Model the belly breathing for your child. 4) Say the mantras with your child. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories AND Parenting with Wink: Bedtime and Beyond on Substack. Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Music by Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

When Olive’s handmade birthday card disappears on the very day she needs it, young listeners follow her emotional journey from frustration to resilience. Perfect for a calming bedtime routine, this screen-free children’s podcast episode helps parents support emotional regulation, coping skills, and confidence at night. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Hold your fingers up like ten candles on a birthday cake, when your child blows fold one finger down for each blow. 2) Model breathing deeply for your child. 3) Pretend to draw in the air together when your child is imagining their feelings. 4) Give your child a hug after blowing out all 10 candles at once. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

Piggy’s Big Plan is a playful, sing-along bedtime story that helps children learn how to handle disappointment when plans fall apart. When a mud puddle disappears on a hot day, Piggy and her animal friends have to make a “Plan B”. Perfect for parents looking for calming, screen-free bedtime stories that model resilience, flexibility, and healthy coping skills for kids. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Whisper, "That's a mad cloud," and point to it like it's floating away. 2) Model the big belly breath for your child. 3) Use your fingers to show 1, 2, 3 with the breath. 4) During the dream and wish gently draw circles on your child's palm with your finger. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Music by Kim Merrill. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

When Alex loses his mitten in the snow, a line of woodland animals discovers its cozy warmth! From hedgehog to bear, each squeezes in until one tiny mouse causes a big surprise. This charming retelling of The Mitten by Steffani Raff is a delightful winter story and mindful moment is full of humor, warmth, and a gentle lesson about personal space. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Use gesture to create a personal bubble around yourself and your child. 2) Imagine the snow drifting down with your child - you can even point out imaginary snowflakes. 3) Model gently blowing those imaginary snowflakes. 4) Breathe into your hands to show your child how to warm them up with big belly breaths. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, Taehyeon (Ted) Kim, and DJ Cromarty. Music by Kip Merrill. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

Join Cami and her beloved stuffed sloth, Slothy, in a touching story that helps kids cope with sadness, separation, and worry. Perfect for parents seeking emotional regulation tools, mindfulness stories, and calming bedtime content. This gentle adventure teaches children resilience, connection, and deep breathing techniques—ideal for family routines, early childhood development, and soothing anxious little hearts. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Join in the hug your child is prompted to give. 2) Gently point to each body part as it is mentioned. 3) Model deep breathing for your child. 4) Take a nice big breath and say AHHHH at the end of the body scan. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, Taehyeon (Ted) Kim, and DJ Cromarty. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

A joyful story inspired by a Japanese folktale about sharing, kindness, and mouse-sized magic. Join storyteller, Steffani Raff for songs, laughter, and mindful moments that help kids relax, imagine, and remember that kindness always rolls back to you. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Wiggle your nose, roll your arms and make your best squeaky laugh with your child. 2) Sniff the air like a little mouse with your child. 3) Model the circle breathing technique for your child so they understand it. 4) Show your child how to tap their cheeks. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, Taehyeon (Ted) Kim, and DJ Cromarty. Music by Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

Plip! Plop! — is a reimagined folktale from Tibet. When a family of rabbits mistake a falling apple for a scary monster, they learn an important lesson about imagination, bravery, and mindfulness. Perfect for parents seeking bedtime stories that teach emotional regulation, deep breathing, and self-soothing. Listen, laugh, and learn simple ways to help your child stay calm and confident when something feels scary. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Model for your child how to make the apple with one hand and pull it with the other. 2) Give your child a bear hug when prompted. 3) Show your child how to do a bunny breath. 4) Listen to different sounds together in your child's room and label what each sound is (if you don't hear anything make up sounds like pretend snoring). For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, Taehyeon (Ted) Kim, and DJ Cromarty. Music by Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

In Gizmo’s Magic Words, we meet Gizmo the otter — a lovable little collector of rocks and shells (and one red sneaker). When Gizmo loses his favorite rock, his mama teaches him a simple song with powerful “magic words” that help an overwhelming mess turn into pride in a job well done. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Encourage your child to squeeze their favorite thing when prompted. 2) Encourage or model for them how to release the tension of squeezing. 3) Model bubble breaths for your child (you can even have a bubble wand one night). 4) The next time you clean up sing the song together and model for your child how to pick up one thing and put it in it's place. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, Taehyeon (Ted) Kim, and DJ Cromarty. Music by Kip Merrill. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

In Spider’s Gift, a humble spider longs to honor baby Jesus like the other animals in Bethlehem. When danger arises, her delicate web becomes a miraculous shield, protecting the Holy Family. This heartwarming Christmas legend celebrates love, faith, and the unique gifts we all have to share. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) You can make hand signs for each of the animals mentioned as your child hushes them. 2) You can hush the animals with your child. 3) You can wrap your child up like the baby Jesus when prompted. 4) You can talk to your child about what gifts they have to give. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, Taehyeon (Ted) Kim, and DJ Cromarty. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

In this Hanukkah story, The Candle Maker, young Ezra learns the meaning behind making candles with his mother — and the miracle of sharing light with others. As Ima tells the ancient story of the Maccabees and the Golden Menorah, Ezra discovers that every act of kindness can make the world a little brighter. Perfect for families celebrating Hanukkah, teachers exploring Jewish traditions, or anyone looking for a peaceful bedtime story filled with warmth, courage, and connection. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) You can show your child a picture of a Hanukkah, the special candle stick, to help them visualize it. 2) You can light a candle and let your child blow it out with their breath. 3) You can give your child a hug when prompted. 4) Practice breathing with your child. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson. SPECIAL THANKS to Adam Booth who consulted Wink on this episode.

In this laugh-out-loud children’s story, Too Many Owls by Steffani Raff, a well-meaning wizard just wants a little peace and quiet—but every spell he casts only brings more hooting owls! With playful sound effects, silly spells, and plenty of “whoo whoo” fun, Too Many Owls is a family-friendly story podcast parents will love sharing with their little listeners that gently helps listeners understand the power of being grateful for what you've got because it could always be worse. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Imagine one good thing in your life and whisper it to your child. 2) Ask your child who they imagined when prompted. 3) Model an owl breath for your child. 4) Gently touch your child's arms every time you hear the word "tingley" to emphasize the feeling of gratitude. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

Join a talkative little turtle on a sky-high adventure with two friendly geese! “The Talkative Turtle” was inspired by a folktale from India. It's a fun story that shows kids the joy of talking—and the wisdom of knowing when to be quiet. Includes an interactive mindfulness game perfect for curious minds and family listening time. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Hide your head like a turtle with your child or help them to do it. 2) Point out things of the color mentioned with your child. This is a great grounding activity you can do anytime your child needs a reset. 3) Model breathing in and out through your nose for your child. 4) Listen quietly and see how many sounds you can name around you. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

In Montgomery the Monster, a little monster learns to face his fears. There’s a big party and Montgomery wishes he could be invisible like Larry but when he makes a mistake he finds out he isn’t the only nervous little monster, and makes a friend. This playful story encourages bravery, friendship, and self-kindness—helping children build confidence in social situations and calm anxious hearts. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Do the little dance with your child and hold your fists tight - this is a pressure and release activity. 2) Model doing the deep breaths with your child. 3) Repeat the affirmations with your child. 4) Ask your child what their brain says to them when they go to parties or other big events. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

When three silly goats refuse to listen, Johnny and his animal friends try everything to bring them home—until a tiny buzzing bee proves that even the smallest can be mighty. Filled with giggles, repetition kids love, and a mindful “bee breath” activity at the end, this story is perfect for bedtime, car rides, or calming little listeners down. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1. Stretch big like a bear with your child. 2. Curl your body up small like a bee with your child. These gentle movements help your body calm down. 3. Model the bee breath for your child. 4. Say the affirmations with your child. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, Taehyeon (Ted) Kim, and DJ Cromarty. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson.

Every parent knows the struggle of grumpy days—when nothing feels right and bedtime feels impossible. In "The Grumpy Firefly" by Steffani Raff, Freddy the firefly has one of those days. From sticky spiderwebs to noisy squirrels, everything goes wrong, and he just can’t find his glow. But with a little laughter, and a good friend Freddy learns how to let go of his stress and shine again.With humor, relatable mishaps, and a simple guided breathing exercise, this episode will help your little one transition from grumpy to glowing. Hey parents, here are 4 ways to build attachment as you listen to the story together: 1) Make a grumpy grunt with your child. 2) Flash a light on and off like a firefly or imagine the fireflies with your child. 3) Model breathing in peace and saying goodbye to stress. 4) Sweep your arms gently across your body alongside your child. For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Storyteller and writer: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post Production by Trent Reimschussel, Kip Merrill, and Taehyeon (Ted) Kim. Music by Kim Merrill. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson