Deep in a quiet corner of the forest lived a teeny-tiny squirrel named Tiko.
Tiko was so small that even a single leaf felt like a giant umbrella over his fluffy head.
Every night, Tiko curled up under his favorite tree the Sleepy Tree.
Why that name?
Because the Sleepy Tree had droopy branches, sighing leaves, and a trunk that hummed soft, dreamy songs all by itself.
But one evening, as the sky glowed pink and purple, Tiko noticed something unusual.
The Sleepy Tree wasn’t humming.
It wasn’t swaying.
It wasn’t even sighing.
“Tree? Are you okay?” Tiko asked gently.
The Sleepy Tree rustled slowly and whispered,
“Little one… I’m tired, but tonight… I just can’t fall asleep.”
Tiko’s tiny heart squeezed with worry.
He wanted his dear tree friend to rest — just like always.
“I know what to do!” Tiko said bravely.
He scampered around the forest collecting the softest things he could find:
a smooth feather…
a fluffy dandelion…
and a warm sun-kissed leaf.
He placed them gently at the base of the tree.
“This is your cozy bed,” he said proudly.
But still, the Sleepy Tree didn’t feel sleepy.
So Tiko climbed up the trunk, settled onto a low branch, and began to hum.
A tiny, gentle tune…
like raindrops…
like butterflies…
like whispers of wind.
The Sleepy Tree’s leaves began to sway.
Swish… swish… swish…
“Ahh… that’s lovely,” the tree murmured, relaxing at last.
Tiko continued humming until the branches drooped softly…
the leaves settled quietly…
and the Sleepy Tree let out the biggest bedtime sigh:
“Goodnight, little friend…”
Tiko curled into his tiny nest.
The Sleepy Tree rested.
The forest rested.
And the night wrapped them both in a warm, peaceful hug.
FAQs:
What age group is “Tiko and the Sleepy Tree” suitable for?
This story is perfect for toddlers and preschoolers, especially ages 2 to 5 years.
The gentle pacing, repeated sounds, and soft imagery are designed to soothe little listeners.
What themes does this story focus on?
The story gently teaches:
The comfort of routines
Caring for friends
Helping others
Calming bedtime habits
Emotional awareness
How can I use this story to make bedtime easier?
You can:
- Read it slowly with a soft voice
- Pause gently at the “swish… swish… swish…” parts
- Hum a little tune like Tiko does
- Use the story as a cue that bedtime is beginning
These elements help children relax and settle down.
Why is Tiko a tiny squirrel?
Little animals help young children relate more easily.
Tiko’s small size also emphasizes bravery, kindness, and gentle problem-solving.