DiscoverWink: Stories for Better BedtimesThe Talkative Turtle: A Mindful Bedtime Story for Kids
The Talkative Turtle: A Mindful Bedtime Story for Kids

The Talkative Turtle: A Mindful Bedtime Story for Kids

Update: 2025-12-01
Share

Digest

This podcast episode introduces blinking and winking before sharing the story of a talkative turtle who befriends geese. The geese offer to fly the turtle, but warn him not to talk. During the flight, the turtle enjoys the views but is mocked by squirrels, causing him to forget the warning and fall. He survives with a cracked shell, learning a valuable lesson about the importance of listening and speaking at the right times. The episode concludes with mindfulness exercises and a reminder about balanced communication.

Outlines

00:00:00
Introduction to Blinking, Winking, and the Talkative Turtle

The podcast begins by explaining blinking and winking through simple actions. It then introduces a story about a talkative turtle who befriends geese, setting the stage for an adventure.

00:02:00
The Turtle's Flight and the Consequences of Talking

The turtle embarks on a flight with geese, holding onto a stick. He experiences the world from above but ultimately falls when he opens his mouth to speak, resulting in a cracked shell and a lesson learned about the importance of silence and listening.

00:08:23
Learning to Listen and Practicing Mindfulness

The podcast emphasizes the importance of listening during adult conversations and when teachers speak. It guides listeners through pretend play, encouraging them to be like turtles and practice quiet breathing and mindfulness.

00:12:31
Conclusion: The Balance of Talking and Listening

The episode concludes by reinforcing the message that both talking and listening are crucial for growth, followed by a goodnight message.

Keywords

Blinking


The rapid closing and opening of the eyelid, an involuntary reflex for eye protection and moisture.

Winking


Closing one eye briefly while keeping the other open, used as a non-verbal signal.

Talkative Turtle


A story character who learns the importance of discretion in speech through a cautionary tale.

Consequences of Talking


The story illustrates that excessive or ill-timed speech can lead to negative outcomes.

Cracked Shell


A physical reminder for the turtle about the lesson learned regarding the importance of silence.

Mindfulness


Practicing present awareness through guided breathing and quiet listening exercises.

Listening Skills


Emphasizing the importance of knowing when to listen, especially during adult conversations or instruction.

Q&A

  • What is the difference between blinking and winking?

    Blinking involves closing and opening both eyes, often involuntarily, while winking is closing just one eye as a deliberate signal.

  • How did the turtle plan to fly with the geese?

    The geese suggested the turtle hold a stick with his mouth while they flew, allowing him to travel with them.

  • What was the main warning given to the turtle before flying?

    The turtle was warned not to open his mouth and talk during the flight, as he would fall.

  • Why did the turtle fall from the sky?

    The turtle fell because he opened his mouth to respond to mocking squirrels, forgetting the geese's warning.

  • What lesson did the turtle learn from his experience?

    The turtle learned that while talking is enjoyable, it's also important to know when to keep quiet and listen, with his cracked shell serving as a reminder.

  • What are some examples of when it's good to keep our mouths shut?

    It's beneficial to remain silent during adult conversations, when a teacher is speaking, or when the timing isn't right to share something.

Show Notes

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
Comments 
00:00
00:00
x

0.5x

0.8x

1.0x

1.25x

1.5x

2.0x

3.0x

Sleep Timer

Off

End of Episode

5 Minutes

10 Minutes

15 Minutes

30 Minutes

45 Minutes

60 Minutes

120 Minutes

The Talkative Turtle: A Mindful Bedtime Story for Kids

The Talkative Turtle: A Mindful Bedtime Story for Kids