Koala Moon: Kids Bedtime Stories & Sleep Stories for Kids

Episode: Prickles' School Trip Down Under 🦔🥝

Date: August 27, 2025
Host: Abbe Opher (as A), with appearances by B
Story by: Jane Thomas

Episode Overview

In this enchanting bedtime episode, listeners join Prickles the Hedgehog as he embarks on a magical school trip to New Zealand—“Down Under”—with his friends Koko and Camo. Crafted to gently guide children toward relaxation and sleep, the story blends adventure, friendship, and wonder as Prickles experiences new activities, marvels at natural wonders, and discovers the comforting power of home and bravery. Familiar Koala Moon warmth and gentle humor run through the episode, making it both entertaining and soothing.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Preparing for Adventure (03:27–08:30)

• Packing for the Unknown:
  Prickles is seen furiously packing, worried about unknown climates and making sure he’s prepared (“He adds a fourth [pair of socks], plus an extra hat and two more scarves…” – Host, 03:32).

• Learning about Seasons:
  Prickles’ father explains the concept of opposite seasons in different hemispheres, mixing learning with playful dialogue.

• Homesickness & Familiar Comforts:
  Prickles’ mum prepares envelopes and chocolate bars for each day away, highlighting gentle support and reassurance.

  “His plate is a place of safety… something that he can look forward to because it’s familiar.” – Host, 07:40

• George the Teddy:
  Prickles remembers to bring his beloved teddy, George, for comfort and secret companionship.

2. The Magical Journey Begins (08:45–13:30)

• Airport Antics:
  Prickles and his friends check in at the airport, with familiar animal staff (the owl) and magic woven into the travel experience.

• Flight by Albatross:
  The school charters “albatrosses” instead of airplanes, creating a whimsical magical-reality blend.
  Prickles faces his fear of flying but finds courage in friends and friendly staff.

  “Eyes closed is definitely less terrifying than eyes open.” – Narrator as Prickles, 10:40

• Arriving in Dreamy Forest, NZ:
  Animal hosts welcome them, and Prickles is praised for his interest in nature.

  “Ask Prickles here about hedgerows sometime. He’s quite the expert.” – Mrs. Merryfeathers/Owl Teacher, 12:30

• Bunk Bed Excitement:
  Experiencing a bunk bed for the first time, Prickles is both nervous and thrilled.

3. Daily Adventures and Gentle Challenges (15:25–38:40)

Each day, Prickles opens a special envelope from his mum, with comforting photos and notes that set the tone.

Monday: Rock Climbing & Abseiling (15:25–25:25)

• Cheerful tuatara lizards teach climbing—emphasizing teamwork, encouragement, and learning from nature.

• Prickles feels nervous but determined, takes it step by step, and learns the value of enjoying the journey.

  “It’s about the journey, not the destination.” – Wise Parrot, 23:55

• Prickles and friends help each other, with Mrs. Merryfeathers playfully refusing to climb:

  “If I wanted to get up there, I’ll fly.” – Mrs. Merryfeathers, 25:20

Tuesday: Mountain Biking (26:00–28:30)

• They ride among the heather, soaking up sun and nature.

Wednesday: Kayaking (28:40–30:40)

• Prickles observes sea life and tranquility.

Thursday: Skiing (30:45–32:54)

• Learning new skills, he marvels at sparkling mountains.

  “The sun sparkled and danced, making it look as if the mountain was covered in a wedding dress beaded with a million dazzling diamonds.” – Host, 32:15

Friday: Visiting a Sheep Farm (32:55–35:30)

• Meets sheep, learns from energetic sheepdogs, and receives a note from his mum about being himself.

  “Don’t just follow the crowd, Prickles. Be yourself. Be proud of who you are, because I definitely am.” – Mum’s letter, 33:40

Saturday: Waitermo Caves & Glowworms (35:35–38:40)

• Most magical, emotional day—caving, exploring underground rivers, and encountering the glowworm-lit cave.

  “It was like nothing Prickles had ever imagined before. The world, he thought, was filled with more beautiful places than even his imagination could create.” – Host, 38:10

• Prickles hangs with bats, tries different perspectives, and ends his journey in awe.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Comfort Objects:
  “George’s job is just to be there in the background, offering hugs and a listening ear when they’re needed.” – Host, 08:22

• On Trying New Things:
  “He knows he’ll also have many bests, many laughs and wows and whoa’s.” – Host, 07:28

• On Facing Fears:
  “Eyes closed is definitely less terrifying than eyes open.” – Prickles, 10:40

• Whimsical Wisdom:
  “It’s about the journey, not the destination.” – Parrot, 23:55

• Parental Reassurance:
  “Don’t just follow the crowd, Prickles. Be yourself. Be proud of who you are, because I definitely am.” – Mum’s note, 33:40

• Awe and Wonder:
  “The glowworms... looked almost like a billion stars twinkling across a night sky.” – Host, 38:17

Important Timestamps

• Travel Prep & Family Comforts: 03:30–08:45
• Airport & Flight to Dreamy Forest: 08:45–13:30
• Welcome & Bunk Beds: 13:30–15:25
• Rock Climbing: 15:25–25:25
• Mountain Biking: 26:00–28:30
• Kayaking: 28:40–30:40
• Skiing: 30:45–32:54
• Sheep Farm: 32:55–35:30
• Waitermo Caves Adventure: 35:35–38:40

Tone & Takeaways

The episode is soothing, whimsical, and full of gentle encouragement. Children (and parents) are reminded that trying new things can be both scary and rewarding, and that the comfort of loved ones is never far away—even when far from home. The rich descriptions, recurring cozy motifs, and gentle humor create a feeling of warmth, safety, and discovery—the perfect recipe for bedtime.

For families seeking a magical escape at bedtime, "Prickles' School Trip Down Under" offers adventure, comfort, gentle humor, and the reassurance that home—and courage—travel with you, wherever you go.