Wink: Stories for Better Bedtimes

Penelope the Porcupine: A Mindful Bedtime Story for Kids

Wink: Stories for Better Bedtimes

Show Notes

Penelope the Porcupine is a heartwarming story about a young porcupine named Penelope who becomes afraid of her prickly quills after one pokes her during a fall. She decides she wants to be "prickle-free" and asks her friends—Rabbit, Bear, and Fox—for help in removing them.

Hey parents, here are 4 reassuring ways to explore worry at bedtime: 1) Get close to your child when practicing the deep breathing so they can feel and hear what deep breathing feels and sounds like. 2) Say the affirmations with your child. 3) Squeeze your muscles with your child when prompted. 4) Relax you muscles when prompted and sigh with your child.

For more bedtime connection tips, visit Wink on Youtube, Instagram or Facebook. @ wink-bedtime-stories

Wink is a production of BYUradio and is always ad and interruption free. Host: Steffani Raff. Producers: Wendy Folsom, Sam Payne, Brian Tanner and Kay Hendrickson. Post by Kip Merrill. Guitar by Kip Merrill. Social Media: Kay Hendrickson

More from Wink: Stories for Better Bedtimes

Oct 19, 2026

This playful adventure follows a brave little old lady who outsmarts three hungry animals with calm courage, quick thinking, and a little help from her clever granddaughter. Packed with laugh-out-loud repetition, memorable sound effects, and a surprising pumpkin twist, it's a story that keeps children guessing until the very end. It celebrates bravery, resilience, and the idea that sometimes the smartest solution is also the most unexpected.

Oct 12, 2026

What if always saying "okay" is the very thing keeping you from finding your real friends? Join Axy, the always-smiling axolotl, as she discovers that telling people what you really like can feel scary... but it can also lead to the best friendships you've ever had. This is a story every child needs before they start believing they have to make everyone else happy to be loved.

Oct 5, 2026

Rufus the bear knows he wants something, but everywhere he goes the birds, squirrels, fish, deer, and bunnies take one look at his teeth, claws, and great big bear body and run away as fast as they can. One little bunny stays behind, watches Rufus carefully, and realizes that underneath all that big, furry, ferocious bear is someone who is sad and lonely. When Rufus whispers, “I want a hug,” Bunny finds her courage, wraps her tiny arms around his gigantic belly, and discovers that sometimes the biggest, scariest-looking creatures just need a little love.

Sep 28, 2026

Little Kitten loves yarn, sunshine, and naps—but most of all, she loves Mama Cat and does not want her to leave. When Little Kitten worries Mama might never come back, Mama teaches her a song and ties a string around her paw to remind her they are always connected. A sweet, funny story about separation anxiety, big feelings, and learning that love keeps us “tied at the heart.”

Sep 21, 2026

Two royal twins eagerly follow a mysterious magician and are transformed into storks after ignoring one important warning. When a fit of laughter makes them forget the magic word, they discover how paying attention, thinking for themselves, and remembering what matters can save the day. This playful retelling of a folktale is filled with humor, adventure, and a satisfying twist that kids will love.

See all episodes →