Families who loved Sports Illustrated Kids Bedtime Books by Michael Dahl often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent would reach for this book when their high-energy child refuses to wind down because they are still 'playing' in their minds. It is the perfect tool for a little athlete who views bedtime as an unwanted timeout rather than a necessary recovery period. Through rhythmic, sports-focused analogies, the book reframes hygiene and sleep as part of a winning game plan. The book uses the familiar language of basketball, baseball, and football to walk children through their evening routine. By identifying with the 'players' on the page, children learn that even the toughest athletes need to hydrate, wash up, and rest their muscles. It is an ideal choice for toddlers and preschoolers who need a gentle but firm bridge from the excitement of the day to the calm of the night, emphasizing that sleep is how we prepare for tomorrow's big game.
