The Wolf was Not Sleeping New Zealand Police

The Wolf was Not Sleeping New Zealand Police is a heartwarming bedtime story specially written by Avril McDonald to soothe the anxiety of children whose parents work as first responders and to encourage conversations which help them manage trauma.

Wolfgang's dad works as a helper: when the wolves sound the alarm, he has to leave to help the other creatures in the forest. Each night Wolfgang worries about what might happen if his dad gets the call. His worries are so bad that they keep him awake, and he is falling asleep in the daytime instead!

Spider leaves a note for Big Dad Wolf to show him how worried Wolfgang is. Big Dad Wolf realises he needs to sit down with Wolfgang to reassure him, and tell him about what happens when he goes to help in the forest. Wolfgang learns that things aren't always as bad as they seem.

There are lots of ways in which we can tell or show people how we are feeling - and if we can name a feeling, then we can tame a feeling.

An ideal bedtime read for young children whose parents are first responders, whether they be firefighters, police officers, ambulance crew, coastguards, or work in any other roles within stressful environments.

Part of Avril McDonald's Feel Brave series - little stories about big feelings.