Under the Moonlight with Penelope Willis

Penelope willis
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A gentle children's and family podcast by author Penelope Willis, featuring bedtime stories, read-alouds and calming emotional support. About love, family and the small moments that help us feel close, even when we’re far apart. Stories, soft parenting ideas and comforting reflections to settle the heart. If you’re looking for calm connection and warmth, you’re welcome here. We’re under the same moon. Hosted by children's author Penelope Willis, creator of 'Calming Stories for Little People.'

  1. 1d ago

    Sometimes Hope Arrives Quietly | A Gentle Reflection on Hope, Parenting and the Future.

    Sometimes Hope Arrives Quietly What if the smallest, most ordinary moments carried the greatest reminders of hope? In this gentle episode of Under the Moonlight, Penelope Willis shares a chance encounter that touched her heart and has stayed with her ever since. What began as a simple conversation with a young woman and her little dog became a powerful reminder that we can never truly know what tomorrow holds. Inspired by a real life moment, this episode reflects on the worries so many parents carry about their children's future, especially those raising children with additional needs. It is a gentle invitation to pause, breathe and remember that today's struggles do not always tell tomorrow's story. Together, we'll explore how hope often arrives quietly, why ordinary moments can leave the deepest impression, and how the future has a remarkable way of surprising us in ways we could never have imagined. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, carer or simply someone in need of a little reassurance, this episode offers a comforting reminder that even when the path ahead feels uncertain, there is still every reason to hold on to hope. Topics include: • The quiet power of hope • The worries parents carry about the future • Finding comfort in ordinary moments • Why today's struggles don't define tomorrow • A gentle reflection for parents of children with additional needs • The beauty of unexpected encounters • Why kindness leaves a lasting imprint • Remembering that every story is still unfolding Perfect for anyone who enjoys gentle reflections, emotional wellbeing, comforting conversations and peaceful bedtime listening. 🌙 About Penelope Willis Penelope Willis is the author of comforting children's books, the Amazon Top 10 quote book Gentle Words: Comforting Quotes and Reflections on Childhood, and host of the Under the Moonlight Podcast. Through gentle stories and heartfelt reflections, she creates a peaceful space where listeners can pause, feel reassured and find comfort in life's ordinary moments. 📖 Gentle Words: Comforting Quotes and Reflections on Childhood is available now on Amazon. Visit www.booksbypenelopewillis.co.uk⁠ for: 📚 Comforting children's books and Gentle Words 🎙️ Podcast episodes 🖨️ Free printable activities 💖 Gentle reflections and comforting blog articles 🌙 Calming Stories for Little People Thank you for listening beneath the moonlight. 🌙💜

    Sometimes Hope Arrives Quietly | A Gentle Reflection on Hope, Parenting and the Future.

  2. 5d ago

    What Children Understand About Happiness That Adults Forget | Wonder | Under the Moonlight Podcast

    What can children teach us about happiness? In this gentle episode of Under the Moonlight, Penelope Willis explores the small everyday moments of joy that children seem to notice so naturally and many adults gradually forget. From puddles and feathers to shells, clouds and ladybirds, children have a remarkable ability to find wonder in ordinary moments. They live in the present, embrace curiosity, and discover happiness in simple things that adults often rush past. Together, we'll reflect on mindfulness, wonder, gratitude, childhood joy, and the importance of slowing down in a busy world. We'll explore how children experience happiness differently, why being present matters, and how we can rediscover some of the simple pleasures that bring meaning to everyday life. This calming episode is perfect for parents, grandparents, educators, carers, and anyone seeking a gentler perspective on happiness and wellbeing. Topics include: • Happiness and wellbeing • Mindfulness and being present • Childhood wonder • Gratitude and simple joys • Parenting and grandparenting • Curiosity and everyday magic • Finding joy in ordinary moments Take gentle care of yourself and the people you love, and join me under the moonlight for this warm reflection on what children understand about happiness that adults sometimes forget. About Penelope Willis Penelope Willis is the author of a collection of comforting children's books including Whenever You Miss Me, Look for the Moon, Oscar and the Whispering Cloud, Oscar and the Brave Little Puffin, Oscar and the Shell of Wonder, Lottie and the Hotel by the Sea, and Elani and the Sea of Light and also writes quotes and comforting reflections for parents and families. Her latest book Gentle Words is available on Amazon from 26th June 2026. Drawing on her experience in early years education, Penelope creates gentle stories and reflections that celebrate childhood, emotional connection, wonder, and the moments that matter most. Find books, free resources, blog posts and more at: www.booksbypenelopewillis.co.uk Music: Beautiful Things Music by Calvin Clavier from Pixabay Link: https://pixabay.com/music/beautiful-things-piano-222056/

  3. Jun 29

    The Comfort of Gentle Words | Finding Reassurance in a Busy World

    The Comfort of Gentle Words | Finding Reassurance in a Busy World What if the words we hear, and the words we speak to ourselves, have the power to comfort us more than we realise? In this gentle episode of Under the Moonlight, Penelope Willis reflects on the quiet comfort that kind words can bring during life's more overwhelming moments. Together, we'll explore why so many of us carry worries we never speak about, why we're often kinder to everyone else than we are to ourselves, and how simple words of reassurance can help us feel a little less alone. Inspired by the launch of her new Amazon Top 10 quote book, Gentle Words: Comforting Quotes and Reflections on Childhood, this episode is an invitation to pause, breathe and remember that none of us has to have all the answers. Sometimes comfort doesn't come from fixing everything. Sometimes it comes from knowing that someone understands. You'll discover why gentle words matter, how self compassion can soften difficult days, why reassurance is something we all need from time to time, and how even the smallest moments of kindness can stay with us long after they've been spoken. Whether you're winding down before bed, taking a quiet walk or simply needing a few peaceful moments, this episode offers a gentle reminder that you're not alone, you're doing better than you think, and it's okay to be wonderfully human. Topics include: • The comfort of gentle words • Being kinder to ourselves • Why reassurance matters • Feeling less alone during difficult times • Finding comfort in books and quiet moments • Living with kindness and self compassion • The inspiration behind Gentle Words Perfect for anyone who enjoys gentle reflections, emotional wellbeing, mindfulness, comforting books and quiet conversations that leave you feeling a little lighter. 🌙 About Penelope Willis Penelope Willis is the author of comforting children's books, the Amazon Top 10 quote book Gentle Words: Comforting Quotes and Reflections on Childhood, and host of the Under the Moonlight Podcast. Through gentle stories and heartfelt reflections, she creates a quiet space where listeners can pause, feel reassured and find comfort in life's ordinary moments. 📖 Gentle Words: Comforting Quotes and Reflections on Childhood is available now on Amazon. Visit www.booksbypenelopewillis.co.uk for: 📚 Comforting children's books and Gentle Words 🎙️ Podcast episodes 🖨️ Free printable activities 💖 Gentle reflections and comforting blog articles 🌙 Calming Stories for Little People Thank you for listening beneath the moonlight. 🌙💜 Music: Romantic life Music by Pavel Bekirov from Pixabay Link: https://pixabay.com/music/romantic-life-164819/

    The Comfort of Gentle Words | Finding Reassurance in a Busy World

  4. Jun 16

    The Comfort of Familiar Things | Why Children Treasure Special Objects and Favourite Routines

    Why do children become so attached to a favourite teddy, a special toy, a treasured pebble or a beloved bedtime story? In this gentle episode of Under the Moonlight, Penelope Willis explores the comfort of familiar things and why they matter so much to children. From treasured objects carried in little pockets to favourite stories read again and again, we'll reflect on the powerful role that familiarity plays in helping children feel safe, secure and connected. You'll discover why comfort objects can help children navigate change, how familiar routines support emotional wellbeing, and why even adults continue to seek comfort in favourite places, treasured possessions and familiar rituals. This calming episode offers gentle parenting insights, practical ideas for supporting children through change, and a warm reminder that comfort can often be found in life's simplest things. Topics include: • Comfort objects and emotional security • Favourite stories and bedtime routines • Childhood treasures and keepsakes • Helping children cope with change • Emotional wellbeing and connection • Gentle parenting and reassurance • Why familiarity helps children feel safe Perfect for parents, grandparents, carers, teachers and anyone who loves reflecting on childhood, connection and the small things that matter most. 🌙 About Penelope Willis Penelope Willis is the author of comforting children's books and host of the Under the Moonlight Podcast. Through stories, reflections and gentle parenting insights, she explores childhood, emotional connection, wonder and the moments that help children feel safe, seen and loved. Visit www.booksbypenelopewillis.co.uk for: 📚 Comforting children's books 🎙️ Podcast episodes 🖨️ Free printable activities 💖 Gentle parenting articles and bedtime inspiration 🌙 Calming Stories for Little People Thank you for listening beneath the moonlight.

    The Comfort of Familiar Things | Why Children Treasure Special Objects and Favourite Routines

  5. Apr 15

    The Words Children Carry | How Our Words Shape a Child’s Inner Voice

    In this gentle episode of Under the Moonlight, Penelope Willis explores the lasting impact of the words children hear as they grow. From positive affirmation and emotional safety to self-worth, behaviour, and the inner voice children begin to build, this episode reflects on how everyday language can shape a child’s confidence, resilience, and sense of being loved. Perfect for parents, grandparents, carers, and early years educators, this thoughtful conversation is a reminder that the words we use with children do not simply pass by, they stay with them. A calm and reflective parenting podcast episode about kindness, connection, positive language, and helping children feel safe, valued, and enough. If you enjoy this episode of Under the Moonlight, you can also explore the calminig children’s books by Penelope Willis, gentle bedtime stories created to support emotional reassurance, connection, and calm for little ones. www.booksbypenelopewillis.co.uk https://share.google/3YKAOTrn83Q5Ewp8o98Finding88 Music: The wind is inside Music by Aleksandr Katruk from Pixabay Link: https://pixabay.com/music/the-wind-is-inside-248915/ The thoughts shared in this podcast are my own, shaped by experience and reflection, and offered in a personal capacity.

    The Words Children Carry | How Our Words Shape a Child’s Inner Voice

  6. Mar 31

    Bedtime Story for Kids Lottie and the Hotel by the Sea Read Aloud Sleep Story for Children.

    Bedtime story for kids to fall asleep calming sleep story for children toddler bedtime routine story In this calming read aloud episode of Under the Moonlight Podcast, Penelope Willis gently shares her book, Lottie and the Hotel by the Sea, a soothing seaside bedtime story created to help little ones relax, unwind, and fall asleep peacefully. Set in the beautiful seaside town of Whitby and inspired by the real Royal Hotel, this gentle story follows Lottie, a quiet and thoughtful little girl with a big imagination. As she looks out from the hotel window, she begins to notice the changing light, the movement of the sea, and the calm rhythm of the world around her. This story was written especially as a bedtime book to help calm busy minds and support children in settling at the end of the day. It offers a soft and reassuring listening experience that helps children feel safe, relaxed, and ready for sleep. Perfect for bedtime routines, calming anxious children, supporting emotional regulation, and creating quiet moments of connection. Suitable for toddlers and young children aged 2 to 6. This story is written by Penelope Willis, author of Calming Stories for Little People, and is available on Amazon. 👉 Find the book here https://amzn.to/47vBy2f (Affiliate link) The thoughts shared in this podcast are the authors own, shaped by experience and reflection, and offered in a personal capacity. Music: Say Yes to Heaven Music by Calvin Clavier from Pixabay Link: https://pixabay.com/music/say-yes-to-heaven-212491/

    Bedtime Story for Kids Lottie and the Hotel by the Sea Read Aloud Sleep Story for Children.

  7. Mar 17

    The Power of a Calm Adult: Lending Children Our Calm.

    Helping children regulate big emotions with calm, connection and gentle parenting strategies. In this gentle episode of Under the Moonlight Podcast, children’s author Penelope Willis explores the quiet but powerful role a calm adult can play in helping children regulate big feelings. Young children experience emotions intensely, but they don’t yet have the tools to calm themselves. Instead, they often borrow calm from the adults around them. Drawing on her background in early years and her experience supporting young children, Penelope shares six simple and practical ways parents and caregivers can help children feel safe, supported, and emotionally regulated during moments of frustration, overwhelm, or big feelings. In this calming conversation you’ll discover: • Why children need calm adults in order to regulate their emotions • How slowing down can help settle difficult moments • Why voice tone and body language matter so much to young children • How connection often works better than correction • Gentle ways to support toddlers and young children through emotional storms This episode is ideal for parents of toddlers and young children, grandparents, caregivers, teachers, and anyone supporting children through big emotions. If you're searching for calm parenting strategies, emotional regulation support for children, or gentle ways to respond to toddler tantrums, this episode offers a peaceful and reassuring perspective. 🌙 Find more calming resources, bedtime stories, and parenting support from Penelope Willis at: https://www.booksbypenelopewillis.co.uk⁠ 📖 You can also find Penelope’s gentle picture book Whenever You Miss Me, Look for the Moon here: https://amzn.to/4rq6zvv Amazon affiliate link. Penelope Willis is the author of a collection of soothing children’s books including Oscar and the Whispering Cloud, Elani and the Sea of Light, and Whenever You Miss Me, Look for the Moon, gentle, bedtime stories created to help young children feel safe, calm, and emotionally supported. The thoughts shared in this podcast are the authors own, shaped by experience and reflection, and offered in a personal capacity. Music: Contemplative Soft Piano Musician: MusicLFiles Link: https://filmmusic.io/song/6878-contemplative-soft-piano

    The Power of a Calm Adult: Lending Children Our Calm.

  8. Mar 4

    Small Hearts, Big Changes

    Small Hearts, Big Changes In this heartfelt episode of Under The Moonlight Podcast with Penelope Willis, we explore how to help young children cope with change, manage big emotions and feel safe during life’s transitions. From starting nursery or school to family separation, house moves and emotional shifts at home, change can feel overwhelming for small hearts. In this episode, Penelope shares practical and nurturing ways to support children through transition with calm reassurance, emotional connection and steady guidance. You will learn How to support children through change in a gentle and age appropriate way Why transitions can trigger anxiety, seeking extra closeness or big feelings How emotional connection builds resilience in early childhood How bedtime stories and shared reading help children process change safely Simple calming strategies parents can use to ease worry and uncertainty Drawing on her experience in early years education and the themes behind her book The Little Grey Feather, Penelope reflects on how stories can help children rehearse coping, build emotional security and navigate new beginnings with confidence. If your child is struggling with starting school, adjusting to nursery, managing separation anxiety or coping with family change, this episode offers supportive parenting guidance and emotional reassurance. Because even the smallest hearts can move through big changes when they feel held, heard and understood. Visit booksbypenelopewillis.co.uk for calming books and free resources for children. https://share.google/3YKAOTrn83Q5Ewp8o Explore The Little Grey Feather on Amazon https://amzn.to/4ci8zlH This page contains an Amazon affiliate link. A small commission may be earned from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to the reader. The thoughts shared in this podcast are the authors own, shaped by experience and reflection, and offered in a personal capacity.

    Small Hearts, Big Changes
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About

A gentle children's and family podcast by author Penelope Willis, featuring bedtime stories, read-alouds and calming emotional support. About love, family and the small moments that help us feel close, even when we’re far apart. Stories, soft parenting ideas and comforting reflections to settle the heart. If you’re looking for calm connection and warmth, you’re welcome here. We’re under the same moon. Hosted by children's author Penelope Willis, creator of 'Calming Stories for Little People.'

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