I think it varies from person to person. Some people might enjoy bedtime stories well into adulthood for relaxation and nostalgia. But generally, as kids grow older, maybe around 12 or 13, they might start to lose interest.
One good bedtime story for a 2 - year - old is 'The Very Hungry Caterpillar'. It has simple and colorful illustrations that a 2 - year - old can easily understand. The story is about a caterpillar that eats through different foods and finally turns into a beautiful butterfly. It's a short and engaging story that can help a child relax before sleep.
It really depends on the individual. Some kids might stop enjoying bedtime stories as early as 8 or 9, while others might still love them well into their early teens.
They also enhance creativity. When children listen to different stories, they start to imagine the characters, settings, and plots in their heads. This imaginative thinking can carry over into other aspects of their lives, like when they draw or play pretend games.
The story of 'Goldilocks and the Three Bears' is also a classic old bedtime story. Goldilocks enters the house of the three bears while they are out. She tries their porridge, chairs, and beds until she finally falls asleep in the baby bear's bed. When the bears come back, she wakes up and runs away. It's a simple yet engaging story.
First, consider the length of the story. A 1 - year - old has a short attention span, so a short story is better. Second, pick stories with positive themes. 'Guess How Much I Love You' has a loving theme. Third, choose stories that are interactive if possible. 'Where Is Baby's Belly Button?' allows for interaction. Also, make sure the pictures are appealing and not too complex for the baby to understand.
There are many sources for free bedtime stories for 6 - year - olds. You can check out your local library's website. Often, they have e - book collections that are free to access with your library card. Another option is to look for free children's story apps. Some of them offer a selection of classic bedtime stories for free.