The Three Little Kittens

Quick Answer

Why This Story Works for Bedtime

It’s rhythmic, repetitive, and full of gentle ‘problem → fix → celebrate’ beats. Perfect for bedtime because it ends with everyone safe, fed, and happy.

Story Synopsis

Three little kittens have lost their mittens and cry to their mother. She tells them that without mittens, there will be no pie—an instantly memorable consequence. The kittens feel terrible and set off to search. They look high and low, under chairs and behind curtains, until at last they find the missing mittens. They rush back, proud and relieved. Their mother is pleased, and the mood turns warm and celebratory. The rhyme continues with small, funny twists as the kittens put on their mittens, eat their pie, and then face the next tiny trouble (messy mittens) with the same sing-song rhythm. It’s a classic nursery piece that toddlers and preschoolers love because it’s predictable. Parents love it because it’s light, cozy, and ends with comfort—exactly the feeling you want before sleep.

Story Excerpt

Three little kittens had lost their mittens, and they began to cry. “ Oh, Mother dear, ” they said, “ we are so sorry, but we have lost our mittens! ” “ Lost your mittens? ” said their mother. “ Oh, you silly kittens! Then I’m afraid you can have no pie. ” The three little kittens felt very sad indeed. So, the three little kittens went to look for their mittens. They looked under the chairs and behind the curtains. They scampered up high and peeked down low. And at last, they found them! They ran to their mother, holding the mittens up for her to see. “ Oh, Mother dear, look…

In One Glance