Sleep Tight Stories: “Bernice Is Super Nervous 🐻 (Encore Bernice)”

Release Date: February 18, 2026
Host: Sleep Tight Media / Starglow Media
Main Character: Bernice the Bear

Episode Overview

This gentle, comforting episode follows Bernice as she faces pre-show jitters on the night before her school play. Designed to reflect common childhood experiences, the story offers reassurance about nervousness, highlights caring family support, and gently transitions listeners into restful sleep. It’s crafted in a soothing tone to foster comfort and calm for bedtime.

Key Discussion Points & Story Moments

1. Bernice’s Sleepless Night & Talking with Cookie

• [01:05] Bernice wakes up repeatedly, unable to sleep due to nerves about her school play.
• She confides in her cat Cookie, sharing her worries and attempts to self-soothe.
  • “I think it's because I have my play today and I feel super nervous. I don't know why. It's just for the kids and Mama and Papa won't even be there. I have memorized all my lines ... but I am still nervous. Do you know why?” – Bernice [02:02]
• Tries deep breathing, as suggested by Papa, but it doesn’t seem to help at first.

2. Seeking Comfort from Papa Bear

• [04:00] Bernice quietly walks to her parents’ room seeking help.
• Papa Bear responds with empathy and warmth.
  • “What's wrong, Little Bear? Why are you not asleep?” – Papa Bear [04:17]
• They talk about feeling nervous (or having "butterflies" or "dinosaurs in your stomach").
  • “Papa, I would never eat butterflies, nor would I want them in my stomach.” – Bernice [04:45]
• Papa Bear offers sage advice:
  • "I think nervousness can actually be a sign that you care a lot about what you're going to do. It doesn't necessarily mean a lack of self confidence. Even confident people get nervous sometimes." – Papa Bear [06:00]
  • “With good preparation, you can turn that nervousness into excitement and do your best.” – Papa Bear [06:37]
• He reassures Bernice that it’s okay to make mistakes; everyone does, and it means you’re being brave.
  • “Imagine if everything was perfect all the time. It would be kind of boring, right? Making mistakes means you're trying new things and being brave.” – Papa Bear [07:49]

3. Returning to Bed & Comforting Rituals

• [08:25] Papa tucks Bernice in tightly, checks if her stuffed friends (Twigga, Wolfy, Madeline) and Cookie are ready to sleep.
• Bernice requests chocolate chip cookies for after the play, and Papa promises to make them.
  • “Chocolate chip cookies and milk. My yawns are infectious.” – Papa Bear [09:12]
• The sense of warmth and security allows Bernice to relax and finally drift back to sleep.

4. After the Play – Sharing Success & Bonding at Home

• [10:00] Bernice bursts in after school, excited about fresh-baked cookies and eager to share her day.
  • “Papa, I smell chocolate chip cookies. I think I could smell them all the way from school.” – Bernice [10:10]
• She tells Papa Bear about the play:
  • She was still nervous but took deep breaths, and once the play started it felt fun.
  • “I think I made a couple of mistakes, but nobody noticed and everyone clapped. It was fun to do a play with our class.” – Bernice [12:08]
  • Her “super strict” teacher smiled and praised her—an unusual and memorable moment.
    • “She may be super tough, but I guess she is kind too.” – Bernice [13:00]
• Describes funny mishaps and camaraderie with classmates (Bobby’s giggles, special desserts, friends sharing food).

5. Closing and Emotional Support

• [17:00] Papa Bear listens thoughtfully, reassures Bernice that they are proud of her bravery.
  • “You can do anything you set your mind to.” – Papa Bear [12:38]
  • “I'm happy you had a good day, little bear. And we are proud of how brave you are.” – Papa Bear [17:52]
• Bedtime routine winds down with Bernice’s exhaustion and comfort, surrounded by loved ones.
  • “Love you, Papa.” / “Love you too, little Bear.” – Bernice and Papa Bear [18:32]
• The episode ends with Bernice quickly falling asleep, wrapped in family warmth.

Notable Quotes & Moments

| Time | Quote | Speaker | |----------|-----------|-------------| | 02:02 | “I have memorized all my lines and stuff and I'm always super prepared, Cookie. But I am still nervous. Do you know why?” | Bernice | | 04:17 | “What's wrong, Little Bear? Why are you not asleep?” | Papa Bear | | 06:00 | “Nervousness can actually be a sign that you care a lot about what you're going to do...Even confident people get nervous sometimes.” | Papa Bear | | 07:49 | “Making mistakes means you're trying new things and being brave.” | Papa Bear | | 10:10 | “Papa, I smell chocolate chip cookies. I think I could smell them all the way from school.” | Bernice | | 12:08 | “I think I made a couple of mistakes, but nobody noticed and everyone clapped.” | Bernice | | 13:00 | “She may be super tough, but I guess she is kind too.” | Bernice | | 12:38 | “You can do anything you set your mind to.” | Papa Bear | | 17:52 | “We are proud of how brave you are.” | Papa Bear |

Episode Structure and Tone

• Soothing, gentle narration: Conversational and laced with humor appropriate for children (e.g., talk of dinosaurs in tummies, infectious yawns).
• Child’s perspective: Authentic inner dialogue, uncertainty, and heartwarming comfort from caregivers.
• Emphasis on emotional intelligence: Encourages self-reflection, validation of feelings, coping skills, and unconditional support.

Conclusion

This story beautifully addresses the feelings of nervousness that come with trying something new, particularly in front of others. Through Bernice’s relatable worries and her family's patient guidance, children learn that it’s okay to be nervous, that preparation helps, and that support, kindness, and comfort—both from others and yourself—make every challenge feel more manageable. The warm bedtime closure helps children gently transition into their own restful sleep, surrounded by reassurance and love.