For Parents
Everything you need to know before pressing play.
What your child will hear
Each episode contains: a 35-minute original story (which ends with the lead character saying their own Alphabet of Thankfulness as they drift off to bed), followed by a science-backed wind-down sequence and a 49-minute lullaby interlude. Total runtime: approximately 95 minutes.
The sleep science
The wind-down sequence follows a research-based order. It begins with Peripheral Vision Expansion — a Huberman Lab protocol where soft, panoramic gaze immediately activates the parasympathetic nervous system. Then Tapping (EFT), which uses bilateral stimulation to down-regulate the amygdala and clear emotional residue from the day. Then Cyclic Muscle Relaxation (adapted from Jacobson PMR) for progressive physical release. Finally, a guided Sleep Meditation with body scan, safe-place visualisation, and gentle affirmations — leading into the lullaby interlude.
Full Sleep Neuroscience breakdown →The faith approach
Hearthwild is built on Open Theism — the belief that God is a relational partner who responds to our choices rather than a distant controller who planned every outcome. In practice, this means characters learn that their gifts open when they focus on others, that God is present in specific evenings rather than abstract plans, and that prayer is a real two-way conversation. Faith is never preached — it emerges through story.
Age suitability
Primary audience: ages 5–11. Younger children (5–7) will enjoy the warmth and character voices. Older children (8–11) will engage more deeply with the character arcs, the mystery threads, and the theological texture. The show is designed to reward repeated listening — details that seem small become significant over time.
How to use Hearthwild
Hearthwild works best as a complete bedtime routine. Start the episode as the child settles into bed. The story runs for 35 minutes, followed by the wind-down sequence (about 15 minutes), and then the lullaby interlude which continues as long as needed. Most children are asleep before the lullabies end.