We have a 2 years and 5 months old daughter who recently transitioned from co-sleeping to sleeping alone in her own bed of a separate room. She was willing to sleep in her bed but kept asking me to pat her back until she fell asleep, with light on, every night. After she fell asleep I would then leave her room. But during night, she often woke up, only finding that I was not present patting her back, and cried loudly to call me to her bed and pat her until she was asleep again. I knew this was a bad sleeping habit and I need to change it. Almost every night I had to get up to calm her.
I came to know this book from an internet forum where one parent recommended this book to people with similar toddlers.
Now the fun part: After the book came, I put it under a stack of her books, hoping she wouldn’t find it and I would have the chance to surprise her with the new story later in the day. Unfortunately when I returned from work, I found her reading it! She realized the real purpose of this book and did not allow me to tell this story at bed time (she knew well that I always wanted her to sleep on her own)! Days later, I had the chance to share the story with her, but only during day time. She liked the story, but still refused it at bed time, only wanted to hear other stories…I almost lost my hope.
One day, I draw a simple unhappy face on a sticker and tucked it under her pillow. I told her it was sent from the Pillow Fairy and she was unhappy because my daughter still asked me to pat her at bed time. This way I successfully put her in the context of the story. She became intrigued by my statement but a little frightened, realizing the Pillow Fairy is really watching her as she did to Matt. I also told her that she would earn a star the next morning. That night, she asked me to tell the story TWICE, this puts her well into the context. She turned her back toward me, reluctantly said good night to me with some tear on face. I turned off the light with her permission and left her room. Ping
I came to know this book from an internet forum where one parent recommended this book to people with similar toddlers.
Now the fun part: After the book came, I put it under a stack of her books, hoping she wouldn’t find it and I would have the chance to surprise her with the new story later in the day. Unfortunately when I returned from work, I found her reading it! She realized the real purpose of this book and did not allow me to tell this story at bed time (she knew well that I always wanted her to sleep on her own)! Days later, I had the chance to share the story with her, but only during day time. She liked the story, but still refused it at bed time, only wanted to hear other stories…I almost lost my hope.
One day, I draw a simple unhappy face on a sticker and tucked it under her pillow. I told her it was sent from the Pillow Fairy and she was unhappy because my daughter still asked me to pat her at bed time. This way I successfully put her in the context of the story. She became intrigued by my statement but a little frightened, realizing the Pillow Fairy is really watching her as she did to Matt. I also told her that she would earn a star the next morning. That night, she asked me to tell the story TWICE, this puts her well into the context. She turned her back toward me, reluctantly said good night to me with some tear on face. I turned off the light with her permission and left her room. Ping
I absolutely love this book! It is genius! My 8 year old and 4 year old are all about the pillow fairy. It makes my mommy time at the end of long work days a much more pleasant time and completely guilt free. My kids WANT to go to sleep nicely, without a fuss after reading the pillow fairy. Thank you so much! J.L.
Today at my exercise class, a woman who had bought The Pillow Fairy for her granddaughter told me a great story. She said that she was babysitting her granddaughter in Austin, TX, and the little one said, "I can't wait to see what I get tonight from the Pillow Fairy". After panicking and contacting the parents to see where the "stash" was, she did her job. The next morning, her granddaughter bounced downstairs announcing, "Look what the Pillow Fairy brought me: a sticker, two pennies, and a quarter." The funny thing was, Grandma didn't put the quarter there. "I found the quarter on the floor, her granddaughter announced. The Pillow Fairy must have dropped it!" The magic continues.....J.J.
We were given this book as a gift, and it came at the nick of time. Our little girl slept with us, and it was a constant fight to get her to sleep in her own bed. This book solved the problem. It also became her favorite book. I have given it for baby gifts since. Anonymous
I bought this book because, out of nowhere, my 3.5 year old son developed a sudden fear of sleeping in his own bed. My husband and I share a full size bed so having him in bed with us led to many nights of restless "sleep." When I came across this book I decided to give it a try. My son slept in his bed the first night we read it and has been sleeping in it ever since. Anabel
If you cannot get your kids out of your bed and into their own, I definitely recommend this book!
Gene and Dee,Charlie is finally past needing board books, so tonight we read a "new" book. We read "The Pillow Fairy" that you gave her as a present. She loved it and asked if we could read it a second time!
Just wanted to let you know that the gift was enjoyed. It is sure to become an often read book in her library. S.W.
Marcia,I received this note today from my nephews. I know that their parents are using a somewhat modified Pillow Fairy plan with a sticker chart, but the book has become an integral part of the bedtime routine. Everyone is having a happier evening. :) J.J.
Dear Aunt Joyce and Uncle Dan,
Thank you for our Pillow Fairy book. We are going to bed and staying in bed. We ask our mommy to read The Pillow Fairy every night.
Hugs,
Trey and Tyler
Thank you, Marcia! Your book is fantastic and the pillow fairy has already helped my baby girl sleep in her own bed! I O U . L.H.
Getting kids to sleep on their own can be difficult, but Matt's mom has come up with a clever way of encouraging him to feel more independent and comfortable in his own bed! My 4 year old has read this book over and over. Kids will find the story and the illustrations appealing, and parents may find some inspiration for a new bedtime routine. C.O.
We tried the Pillow Fairy with our son, and he is really excited! It is the first night we haven't had to lie down with him to go to sleep. B.D.
We love the Pillow Fairy! We write in the book every time she comes. J.B.
Things are going great with the Pillow Fairy. He’s going to sleep on his own now and is excited to see what he gets each morning. The book is great and I’m so glad that I got it from you when we went to Missouri!!! B.D.
My daughter LOVES the Pillow Fairy. She got the best gift ever the other morning. That's all she talks about now.
This 'pillow fairy' book really helped me with my youngest daughter, Hannah. she was used to sleeping with her big sister, and when big sis decided she wanted little sis out of her bed, we had a situation on our hands. the pillow fairy came to visit and it only took one magical night and she has been in her bed ever since = true story. I couldn't believe it. Pick this book up for your kiddos, friends and family. Money well spent. Thank you, Marcia . LH
The Pillow Fairy is a great book with a relatible story for kids and parents alike. Our little one loves to look at the pictures and hear about the magical fairy who visits at night. It is a book she will grow up with. A.C.
I bought The Pillow fairy online for my 6 year old grandson. He's a believer! Thanks so much for your story. SJR
The Pillow Fairy has been coming to our house now, for two weeks, and it really works! T.H.
She asks for "sleeping" book when she wants to read it. She loves the picture of the boys at the end. L.B.
You were absolutely delightful! We loved your presentation and your book! D.R.
The Pillow Fairy came to see Jayden last night, and left him Scooby snacks under his pillow for
sleeping in his bed all night and being a big boy! Thank you Mrs.Riley! J.C.
I gave your book, The Pillow Fairy to my neighbor, who is having this problem. They called today to tell me that it works! They love it and love you! D.P.
This is my daughter's favorite book! Thank you for writing it. J.L.
I was so excited to share my grandson, Isaac's experience with your book. Maxine was very generous to pass it on to Isaac and then onto another child who has difficulty sleeping along in his/her own bed. J.M.F.
Hi Marcia, I wanted to pass on this note from my friend in Tanzania to whom I sent your book. She finally just got it. Lisa
Hi Lisa- Just got the Pillow Fairy delivered this weekend- read it to Twiloo this weekend, and now have a little girl, sleeping in her bed, with her flashlight on under the covers, sound asleep with the new book open under her face. Its pretty adorbs and by herself!!! You have rescued us!!! GREAT book! THANK YOU doesn't cut it. J.P.
I just read this to my four year old who had been sleeping with us for 2 years and (knocking on wood) it worked! We had to honor some requests such as leaving the door open and two night lights in the room but so far... so good. Fell
asleep in her room 'all by herself' for the first time in two years!!!! Thank you!!!! A.K.
Hi Marcia, I picked up The Pillow Fairy last night at Signs of Life. What a wonderful book! I will be reading it to my 3-year old granddaughter this weekend. I know she'll love it! M.L.
I have been trying for 3 months to entice, persuade, promote my 3 year old daughter to stay in her bed. My son is 6 and I just finally got him to stay in his bed 75% of the time. I ran into this Author at a Holiday Mart, bought this book and read it to my daughter.....she slept in her bed on the first night!!! I was shocked, which was last night. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this. Best purchase I've made in a while. K.W.
Hi there from a very cold wintry Croce! I was looking for the card you left me with the name of the book you wrote and couldn't put my hands on it! I saw it just a few weeks ago. Just like the thing. Now if I remember your book was called The Pillow Fairy and helps children who are for some reason or another unhappy in bed alone is that right? If so I shall buy a copy and send it to my sister in law whose granddaughter will not stay in bed. Can you perhaps get back to me as I will need to order it by Friday as we are going away for a holiday on Sunday.I wish you and your husband a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2014. E.N.
And I keep meaning to tell you that the pillow fairy worked like a charm and Billy has been in his own bed all night since he turned 3 and we started the pillow fairy! Thank you! M.M.
My three year old daughter would never stay in her bed when it was time for bedtime. A friend gave us 'The Pillow Fairy' and it quickly became her favorite book. We put little trinkets under her pillow at night when she stayed in bed and it worked! Great story and illustrations. A.R.
Jeremy and I are so grateful for your book. It is the only reason our 4 year old sleeps in his bed. Thank you for writing it . The pillow fairy still comes and visits on occasions. M.C.
I should've bought this book a long time ago! I read it to the boys tonight. I made sure to point out the flickering light of the fairy through the window after the story.It was cute, skeptical Jack said he couldn't see the light of the fairy across the street, he said that I was just joking. But then there was a lightening bug in the backyard, 2 houses over, then it moved from one house to another. He doesn't know much about lightening bugs yet & this one was far away. Anyways, when he saw it going to the next house, he squirmed out of my arms & said "We gotta hurry!" He climbed into bed, covered up, & then started to cry because he didn't think he'd be able to fall asleep. That was short lived. Lol. BTW, lately he gets in bed & plays with the stuffed animals for an hour before conking out & often times he gets out of bed multiple times, but not tonight. Going to bed has been a struggle for a couple of years. T.H.
My three year old daughter would never stay in her bed when it was time for bedtime. A friend gave us 'The Pillow Fairy' and it quickly became her favorite book. We put little trinkets under her pillow at night when she stayed in bed and it worked! Great story and illustrations. A.R.
What a sweet book based on a true story! I bought this book for myself and friends. Try it, it works. K.G.
This is a happy book- it is a great book to give to little ones as they get used to sleeping by themselves. I really enjoyed it.....P.C.
Author Marcia Riley with the help of illustrator Joni Patterson has created a soon-to-be classic. The Pillow Fairy is timeless in its appeal because it addresses something universal in parenting: how to help children sleep through the night in their own bed. I loved this story. A gift for both children and parents. Photo of the real Matt with brother Justin is on the last page! Sweet ending to a great little story. L.M.
Every parent who has trouble putting their child to bed by themselves should use this book. It is a great guide-such a brilliant author and talented illustrator. Thanks to both of them. B.M.
I ordered 2 copies to give as gifts. A friend was at my house when they arrived and she asked to read it, then asked to buy it from me for her grand kids. I can see why. It is a clever story with a practical tip for the common problem of getting preschoolers to sleep in their own bed. Nicely illustrated. A.R.
I have been trying for 3 months to entice, persuade, promote my 3 year old daughter to stay in her bed. My son is 6 and I just finally got him to stay in his bed 75% of the time. I ran into this Author at a Holiday Mart, bought this book and read it to my daughter.....she slept in her bed on the first night!!! I was shocked, which was last night. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this. Best purchase I've made in a while.K.W.
Beautifully written and illustrated. A loving story for all children and parents to experience. A first memory for children and a first rite of passage. J.B.
We read this book with our four-year-old daughter who kept getting out of bed at night for silly reasons. This is a different issue than described in the book (sleeping alone), but we were able to easily adapt it to our family and the principle was very effective. Our pillow fairy brings small things for girls who stay in bed. It's a cute story that has provided more peaceful evenings for the whole family! Brett
I should've bought this book a long time ago! I read it to the boys tonight. I made sure to point out the flickering light of the fairy through the window after the story.
It was cute, skeptical Jack said he couldn't see the light of the fairy across the street, he said that I was just joking. But then there was a lightening bug in the backyard, 2 houses over, then it moved from one house to another. He doesn't know much about lightening bugs yet & this one was far away. Anyways, when he saw it going to the next house, he squirmed out of my arms & said "We gotta hurry!" He climbed into bed, covered up, & then started to cry because he didn't think he'd be able to fall asleep. That was short lived. Lol. BTW, lately he gets in bed & plays with the stuffed animals for an hour before conking out & often times he gets out of bed multiple times, but not tonight. Going to bed has been a struggle for a couple of years. T. H.
My three year old daughter would never stay in her bed when it was time for bedtime. A friend gave us 'The Pillow Fairy' and it quickly became her favorite book. We put little trinkets under her pillow at night when she stayed in bed and it worked! Great story and illustrations. A.R.
We were given this book as a gift, and it came at the nick of time. Our little girl slept with us, and it was a constant fight to get her to sleep in her own bed. This book solved the problem. It also became her favorite book. I have given it for baby gifts since. Anonymous
I bought this book because, out of nowhere, my 3.5 year old son developed a sudden fear of sleeping in his own bed. My husband and I share a full size bed so having him in bed with us led to many nights of restless "sleep." When I came across this book I decided to give it a try. My son slept in his bed the first night we read it and has been sleeping in it ever since. Anabel
If you cannot get your kids out of your bed and into their own, I definitely recommend this book!
Gene and Dee,Charlie is finally past needing board books, so tonight we read a "new" book. We read "The Pillow Fairy" that you gave her as a present. She loved it and asked if we could read it a second time!
Just wanted to let you know that the gift was enjoyed. It is sure to become an often read book in her library. S.W.
Marcia,I received this note today from my nephews. I know that their parents are using a somewhat modified Pillow Fairy plan with a sticker chart, but the book has become an integral part of the bedtime routine. Everyone is having a happier evening. :) J.J.
Dear Aunt Joyce and Uncle Dan,
Thank you for our Pillow Fairy book. We are going to bed and staying in bed. We ask our mommy to read The Pillow Fairy every night.
Hugs,
Trey and Tyler
Thank you, Marcia! Your book is fantastic and the pillow fairy has already helped my baby girl sleep in her own bed! I O U . L.H.
Getting kids to sleep on their own can be difficult, but Matt's mom has come up with a clever way of encouraging him to feel more independent and comfortable in his own bed! My 4 year old has read this book over and over. Kids will find the story and the illustrations appealing, and parents may find some inspiration for a new bedtime routine. C.O.
We tried the Pillow Fairy with our son, and he is really excited! It is the first night we haven't had to lie down with him to go to sleep. B.D.
We love the Pillow Fairy! We write in the book every time she comes. J.B.
Things are going great with the Pillow Fairy. He’s going to sleep on his own now and is excited to see what he gets each morning. The book is great and I’m so glad that I got it from you when we went to Missouri!!! B.D.
My daughter LOVES the Pillow Fairy. She got the best gift ever the other morning. That's all she talks about now.
This 'pillow fairy' book really helped me with my youngest daughter, Hannah. she was used to sleeping with her big sister, and when big sis decided she wanted little sis out of her bed, we had a situation on our hands. the pillow fairy came to visit and it only took one magical night and she has been in her bed ever since = true story. I couldn't believe it. Pick this book up for your kiddos, friends and family. Money well spent. Thank you, Marcia . LH
The Pillow Fairy is a great book with a relatible story for kids and parents alike. Our little one loves to look at the pictures and hear about the magical fairy who visits at night. It is a book she will grow up with. A.C.
I bought The Pillow fairy online for my 6 year old grandson. He's a believer! Thanks so much for your story. SJR
The Pillow Fairy has been coming to our house now, for two weeks, and it really works! T.H.
She asks for "sleeping" book when she wants to read it. She loves the picture of the boys at the end. L.B.
You were absolutely delightful! We loved your presentation and your book! D.R.
The Pillow Fairy came to see Jayden last night, and left him Scooby snacks under his pillow for
sleeping in his bed all night and being a big boy! Thank you Mrs.Riley! J.C.
I gave your book, The Pillow Fairy to my neighbor, who is having this problem. They called today to tell me that it works! They love it and love you! D.P.
This is my daughter's favorite book! Thank you for writing it. J.L.
I was so excited to share my grandson, Isaac's experience with your book. Maxine was very generous to pass it on to Isaac and then onto another child who has difficulty sleeping along in his/her own bed. J.M.F.
Hi Marcia, I wanted to pass on this note from my friend in Tanzania to whom I sent your book. She finally just got it. Lisa
Hi Lisa- Just got the Pillow Fairy delivered this weekend- read it to Twiloo this weekend, and now have a little girl, sleeping in her bed, with her flashlight on under the covers, sound asleep with the new book open under her face. Its pretty adorbs and by herself!!! You have rescued us!!! GREAT book! THANK YOU doesn't cut it. J.P.
I just read this to my four year old who had been sleeping with us for 2 years and (knocking on wood) it worked! We had to honor some requests such as leaving the door open and two night lights in the room but so far... so good. Fell
asleep in her room 'all by herself' for the first time in two years!!!! Thank you!!!! A.K.
Hi Marcia, I picked up The Pillow Fairy last night at Signs of Life. What a wonderful book! I will be reading it to my 3-year old granddaughter this weekend. I know she'll love it! M.L.
I have been trying for 3 months to entice, persuade, promote my 3 year old daughter to stay in her bed. My son is 6 and I just finally got him to stay in his bed 75% of the time. I ran into this Author at a Holiday Mart, bought this book and read it to my daughter.....she slept in her bed on the first night!!! I was shocked, which was last night. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this. Best purchase I've made in a while. K.W.
Hi there from a very cold wintry Croce! I was looking for the card you left me with the name of the book you wrote and couldn't put my hands on it! I saw it just a few weeks ago. Just like the thing. Now if I remember your book was called The Pillow Fairy and helps children who are for some reason or another unhappy in bed alone is that right? If so I shall buy a copy and send it to my sister in law whose granddaughter will not stay in bed. Can you perhaps get back to me as I will need to order it by Friday as we are going away for a holiday on Sunday.I wish you and your husband a Merry Christmas and all the best for 2014. E.N.
And I keep meaning to tell you that the pillow fairy worked like a charm and Billy has been in his own bed all night since he turned 3 and we started the pillow fairy! Thank you! M.M.
My three year old daughter would never stay in her bed when it was time for bedtime. A friend gave us 'The Pillow Fairy' and it quickly became her favorite book. We put little trinkets under her pillow at night when she stayed in bed and it worked! Great story and illustrations. A.R.
Jeremy and I are so grateful for your book. It is the only reason our 4 year old sleeps in his bed. Thank you for writing it . The pillow fairy still comes and visits on occasions. M.C.
I should've bought this book a long time ago! I read it to the boys tonight. I made sure to point out the flickering light of the fairy through the window after the story.It was cute, skeptical Jack said he couldn't see the light of the fairy across the street, he said that I was just joking. But then there was a lightening bug in the backyard, 2 houses over, then it moved from one house to another. He doesn't know much about lightening bugs yet & this one was far away. Anyways, when he saw it going to the next house, he squirmed out of my arms & said "We gotta hurry!" He climbed into bed, covered up, & then started to cry because he didn't think he'd be able to fall asleep. That was short lived. Lol. BTW, lately he gets in bed & plays with the stuffed animals for an hour before conking out & often times he gets out of bed multiple times, but not tonight. Going to bed has been a struggle for a couple of years. T.H.
My three year old daughter would never stay in her bed when it was time for bedtime. A friend gave us 'The Pillow Fairy' and it quickly became her favorite book. We put little trinkets under her pillow at night when she stayed in bed and it worked! Great story and illustrations. A.R.
What a sweet book based on a true story! I bought this book for myself and friends. Try it, it works. K.G.
This is a happy book- it is a great book to give to little ones as they get used to sleeping by themselves. I really enjoyed it.....P.C.
Author Marcia Riley with the help of illustrator Joni Patterson has created a soon-to-be classic. The Pillow Fairy is timeless in its appeal because it addresses something universal in parenting: how to help children sleep through the night in their own bed. I loved this story. A gift for both children and parents. Photo of the real Matt with brother Justin is on the last page! Sweet ending to a great little story. L.M.
Every parent who has trouble putting their child to bed by themselves should use this book. It is a great guide-such a brilliant author and talented illustrator. Thanks to both of them. B.M.
I ordered 2 copies to give as gifts. A friend was at my house when they arrived and she asked to read it, then asked to buy it from me for her grand kids. I can see why. It is a clever story with a practical tip for the common problem of getting preschoolers to sleep in their own bed. Nicely illustrated. A.R.
I have been trying for 3 months to entice, persuade, promote my 3 year old daughter to stay in her bed. My son is 6 and I just finally got him to stay in his bed 75% of the time. I ran into this Author at a Holiday Mart, bought this book and read it to my daughter.....she slept in her bed on the first night!!! I was shocked, which was last night. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this. Best purchase I've made in a while.K.W.
Beautifully written and illustrated. A loving story for all children and parents to experience. A first memory for children and a first rite of passage. J.B.
We read this book with our four-year-old daughter who kept getting out of bed at night for silly reasons. This is a different issue than described in the book (sleeping alone), but we were able to easily adapt it to our family and the principle was very effective. Our pillow fairy brings small things for girls who stay in bed. It's a cute story that has provided more peaceful evenings for the whole family! Brett
I should've bought this book a long time ago! I read it to the boys tonight. I made sure to point out the flickering light of the fairy through the window after the story.
It was cute, skeptical Jack said he couldn't see the light of the fairy across the street, he said that I was just joking. But then there was a lightening bug in the backyard, 2 houses over, then it moved from one house to another. He doesn't know much about lightening bugs yet & this one was far away. Anyways, when he saw it going to the next house, he squirmed out of my arms & said "We gotta hurry!" He climbed into bed, covered up, & then started to cry because he didn't think he'd be able to fall asleep. That was short lived. Lol. BTW, lately he gets in bed & plays with the stuffed animals for an hour before conking out & often times he gets out of bed multiple times, but not tonight. Going to bed has been a struggle for a couple of years. T. H.
My three year old daughter would never stay in her bed when it was time for bedtime. A friend gave us 'The Pillow Fairy' and it quickly became her favorite book. We put little trinkets under her pillow at night when she stayed in bed and it worked! Great story and illustrations. A.R.
