Sleep Tight Stories – Bernice Thinks She Cannot Sing Well 🐻 (Encore Bedtime Story)

Podcast: Sleep Tight Stories for Kids
Release Date: December 3, 2025

Overview

This gentle bedtime episode tells the comforting story of Bernice, a young bear who is anxious about singing in her school’s holiday show. Through warm conversations with her friend Ethan, her beloved Papa Bear, and even her attentive cat Cookie, Bernice learns about facing worries, kindness, and the true spirit of the holidays. The story promotes self-acceptance and the importance of compassion and togetherness, wrapping children in a cozy, reassuring bedtime atmosphere.

Key Discussion Points & Story Highlights

1. Cold Days and Kind Gestures

• [02:10] Bernice offers her scarf to Ethan as they walk home in the cold, showing kindness and empathy, even though Ethan declines.
  • Notable Quote:
    “You look super cold, Ethan. Do you want my scarf or something?... I can definitely share my scarf.” – Bernice ([01:10])
• The friends joke about a “goblin” that hides winter gear, bringing light, relatable humor.

2. Holiday Anticipation – and Anxiety

• [04:00] Ethan expresses excitement for a possible snow day and the fun of sledding, while Bernice reveals her reluctance about the school holiday show.
  • Notable Quote:
    “We’d get a day off because of a snowstorm and then we’d get to play outside instead of practicing for the holiday show.” – Bernice ([03:23])
• Bernice confides in Ethan that she gets nervous singing in front of people and thinks her singing sounds "like a frog."

3. Sharing Vulnerabilities at Home

• [05:41] Bernice arrives home, interacting warmly with Cookie the cat and Papa Bear, creating a relatable, comforting family routine.
• She shares her unease about the changed school routine and the pressure of holiday preparations.
  • Notable Quote:
    “I miss the normal schedule. I’d rather have science and math, practice my art... though I don’t know if I can be a runner and a hockey player and a swimmer. Maybe I’ll have to choose someday.” – Bernice ([06:55])

4. Opening Up About Singing Fears

• [08:30] Bernice complains to Cookie about having to sing, referencing teasing from her friend Bobby, who said she sounded “like a goat and a frog.”
• Cookie’s comforting, silent support illustrates gentle emotional validation.

5. Papa Bear’s Guidance and Holiday Spirit

• [10:50] Papa Bear joins Bernice for hot chocolate and cookies. He gently guides Bernice through her worries: -Notable Quote:
  “Getting up in front of people can be a bit scary, Little Bear. Even your Mama gets nervous when she has to speak in front of people, and she’s an expert. But no one expects you to be perfect or a professional singer… Shows like these are about sharing joy, having fun with your friends, and maybe learning something new.” – Papa Bear ([14:00])
• Papa shares his own stories of singing badly in choirs, demonstrating vulnerability and the importance of enjoying things for the sake of fun.
• He reminds Bernice that support from loved ones matters most and affirms her effort and unique voice.

6. Gift Giving and the True Meaning of Holidays

• [16:50] Bernice worries about holiday gifts, not having something “special” for Bobby. Papa Bear reassures her:
  • Notable Quote:
    “It’s the thought that counts more than the gift itself… I believe Bobby would treasure something you made for him far more.” – Papa Bear ([17:30])
• Papa Bear describes the holiday season as a time for kindness, compassion, and caring for others, especially those in need.
  • Notable Quote:
    “It’s about the spirit of giving. Not just presents, but giving our time, our attention, and our hearts… That's what makes it feel so special, no matter how cold it gets outside.” – Papa Bear ([18:45])
• Food (especially cookies!) is highlighted as a way to show care and bring people together.

7. Bedtime Rituals and Reassurance

• [21:00] The evening ends with loving bedtime routines – a “yawning competition,” cuddles with beloved stuffed animals, and reaffirmations of love.
  • Notable Quotes:
    “Papa, you still owe me like a hundred or maybe a thousand stories.” – Bernice ([21:43])
    “Love you, Papa.”
    “I love you too, Little Bear.” – Bernice and Papa Bear ([22:10])

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Bernice’s Self-Doubt:
  “I sound like a frog when I sing. I’d take math class, science, or especially art any day.” – Bernice ([03:40])

• Papa Bear on Stage Fright:
  “Getting up in front of people can be a bit scary, Little Bear… But no one expects you to be perfect.” – Papa Bear ([14:00])

• Papa Bear on the Season:
  “It’s about the spirit of giving... Not just presents, but giving our time, our attention, and our hearts.” – Papa Bear ([18:45])

• The Value of Handmade Gifts:
  “I believe Bobby would treasure something you made for him far more.” – Papa Bear ([17:30])

• Bedtime Love:
  “I love you too, Little Bear.” – Papa Bear ([22:10])

Timestamps for Key Segments

• 01:10 – Bernice offers her scarf to Ethan
• 03:23 – Talking about holiday show nerves
• 06:55 – Missing normal school routines
• 08:30 – Talking to Cookie about singing insecurities
• 10:50 – Papa Bear’s support begins
• 14:00 – Papa Bear on stage fright
• 17:30 – The value of handmade gifts
• 18:45 – Meaning of the holiday season
• 21:43 – Bedtime rituals and “thousand stories” promise
• 22:10 – Goodnight exchange

Tone and Takeaway

The story radiates gentle empathy, warmth, and unconditional support, making it ideal for children winding down at bedtime. It models how to address anxieties with conversation and kindness, affirming that everyone has unique strengths—and that togetherness and caring matter far more than outward “talent” or fancy gifts.

Perfect for: Children who feel nervous about performing, those curious about the real meaning of the holidays, and anyone wanting a sweet, calming bedtime narrative.