The Power of Diverse Bedtime Stories

by Olly Pike

There’s something magical about bedtime stories. They are more than just tales to lull children to sleep – they shape the way young minds see the world. As a child, I was mesmerised by stories like ‘Sleeping Beauty’, though I often felt an unspoken barrier between the characters I loved and the person I was. Fairy tales typically presented one version of “happily ever after” – a world where princes only marry princesses, and where characters who didn’t conform to traditional gender roles were rarely seen.

But as our society becomes more aware of the diversity that exists in real life, the stories we share with children must also evolve. This realisation is what inspired me to create diverse and inclusive stories through Pop’n’Olly. I believe that children’s literature is one of the most powerful tools we have to nurture empathy, foster understanding, and combat prejudice before it even begins.

Growing up, I didn’t see many characters who reflected my experiences, and I know that countless other individuals felt the same. The absence of these stories sent a quiet but impactful message: that only certain types of people deserved to have their stories told or to live happily ever after. But that’s not the message I want children to take into adulthood. I want them to know that being different is something to be celebrated, not hidden.

That’s why I began writing inclusive books for children. My first book, ‘Prince Henry’, featured a prince who falls in love with his best friend Thomas. Since then, I’ve written a range of books with diverse characters, including transgender and non-binary protagonists. The goal isn’t to focus on their identities as the main plotline, but rather to have these characters simply exist in the stories. By familiarising these identities in children’s stories, we can help dismantle the learned biases that perpetuate discrimination and misunderstanding.

The importance of telling these stories goes beyond just representation – it’s about helping children embrace empathy, kindness, and respect for others. Studies have shown that children aren’t born with prejudice (1); it’s something they learn from their environment. And, as adults, we have the responsibility to provide an environment that fosters acceptance rather than discrimination. This is why diverse bedtime stories are so crucial. When children hear about different types of people and families at a young age, it shapes their worldview in a way that encourages openness and kindness.

So far, the response to my books has been incredible. Pop’n’Olly’s resources are being used in classrooms and homes across the UK, and beyond, to teach about equality and diversity. I’ve heard from teachers and parents who say that these stories have sparked valuable conversations with children about inclusion and acceptance. In some cases, young readers have even said how much they appreciate finally seeing themselves in a story. Knowing that my work is making a positive impact in the lives of LGBTQ+ children – and helping their peers better understand them – has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my journey as an author.

But it’s not just about LGBTQ+ representation. It’s about challenging outdated gender norms and offering children the freedom to explore who they are without the restrictions that society often imposes. Whether it’s a princess saving the day or a boy who loves wearing dresses, my stories aim to show that there is no one “right” way to be. Everyone deserves to be the hero of their own story, and I hope that, through my books, children learn that it’s okay to be exactly who they are.

Reference:

1. Ref: Skinner, A. L., & Meltzoff, A. N. (2017)

Olly Pike is the creator of the multi-award-winning education company Pop’n’Olly, producing inclusive videos and children’s books designed to combat homophobia and transphobia before they can develop. His work has reached millions globally, with over 30,000 books distributed, including 12,000 donated to UK primary schools. A regular panellist and media guest on LGBT+ education, Olly has earned accolades such as an Attitude Pride Award and commendations at the Bank of London’s Rainbow Honours. He has spoken at Parliament, created content for CBeebies and Tate Kids, and collaborated with companies such as Apple and Microsoft.