From Storybooks to Screens: How Bedtime Has Changed

Not long ago, bedtime was simple: kids tucked in, teddy under one arm, and a well-thumbed storybook under the other. Parents read a chapter, whispered “sweet dreams,” and tiptoed out. That ritual still exists — but these days, bedtime often comes with an extra glow. The glow of a screen.

The New Bedtime Routine

Netflix, YouTube, Disney+… kids have an entire universe of stories at their fingertips. Instead of waiting until tomorrow for the next chapter, they can watch it play out on-screen right now. In many ways, TV and streaming haven’t replaced bedtime stories — they’ve expanded them.

Fairy tales and adventures once lived only on the page. Now, they come alive with colour, sound, and song — whether that’s a Disney princess, superheroes saving the world, or a K-pop demon hunter (yes, that’s a thing in 2025).

Why Screens Work for Bedtime Too

Shared Moments: Families can still bond over a story — it’s just watched instead of read. Snuggling up in bed to watch a film together can be just as special as reading aloud.

Flexibility: Some nights call for a book, others for an episode. Having both options makes winding down easier for busy families.

Stories, Just Told Differently: Whether on a page or on a screen, stories feed imagination. A good tale before sleep — in any format — still sparks dreams.

Books Aren’t Gone — They’ve Just Got Company

It’s not about choosing between books and TV. Plenty of families still mix it up: a quick story followed by a favourite show, or a film night one evening and a storytime the next. The magic is in the routine — the comfort of winding down together before sleep.

The Takeaway

Bedtime stories haven’t disappeared; they’ve evolved. Books, TV, podcasts, audiobooks, YouTube — they’re all part of the modern bedtime toolkit. At the end of the day, whether you’re turning pages or hitting play, what matters is creating that safe, cosy space where kids (and parents) can relax.

After all, bedtime isn’t about what you choose, it’s about who you share it with.

Where a TV Bed Fits In

If you’re looking to make those bedtime routines even smoother, a TV bed can be a game-changer. The screen tucks neatly away when it’s storybook time, and lifts up at the touch of a button when it’s movie night.

Our Vox TV Bed is perfect as a first TV bed — simple, affordable, and smart. With voice activation, manual controls, and built-in USB/USB-C ports, it’s designed for modern family life. Whether it’s winding down with Netflix, YouTube, or a classic bedtime tale, The Vox keeps everything cosy, connected, and easy.