BAFTA-winning TV chef and musician, Big Zuu, will take to the CBeebies Bedtime Story chair for a very special BBC Children in Need episode, and he won’t be reading alone.
In a CBeebies Bedtime Story first, Big Zuu will be joined by Pudsey Bear, along with a group of children from a Children in Need funded theatre and arts project at Z-arts in Manchester, who will help him bring the story to life.
The story, Basil Dreams Big by Lu Fraser and Sarah Warburton, is a heart-warming tale about resilience, bravery, and believing in yourself, with these themes being at the heart of BBC Children in Need’s mission for children. Filmed at Z-arts, which receives funding from BBC Children in Need to deliver accessible arts sessions for disabled children and young people which improve confidence and self-esteem, this episode marks a special collaboration between CBeebies and BBC Children in Need and will air on Thursday 13 November at 6.50pm on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer, the night before the appeal show.
Speaking about his choice of book, Big Zuu said: “It’s such a privilege to read this story with the kids,” said Big Zuu. “Basil Dreams Big is all about finding your confidence and backing yourself, which is what these young people do every day. Reading alongside them and Pudsey made it even more special.”
“Basil Dreams Big is a great book for introducing young children to themes of fear and resilience. It’s okay to be scared of the unknown, but it’s also okay to lean on the people who lift you up and help you find your confidence.”
“I’ve had moments of self-doubt throughout my career, but I’ve always tried to push through with the support of my friends and family. I hope kids watching feel inspired by Basil’s bravery”
CBeebies Bedtime Story is on each weekday at 6.50pm on CBeebies and BBC iPlayer, inspiring the nation to read together and helping families with their daily bedtime routine.
CBeebies Parenting
Parents and carers can find more support on CBeebies Parenting, an online community where for the first time, CBeebies is bringing all its resources in one place from developing speech and language skills to potty training and school readiness. CBeebies Parenting provides top tips, activity ideas, games, advice and content backed by trusted experts.
Thread of Hope
CBeebies and Children in Need have also come together to announce a brand-new animation, Pudsey and the Thread of Hope, bringing the loveable bear to life for the first time. Pudsey and the Thread of Hope, a story by Tom Fletcher, follows Jai, a young boy navigating grief after the loss of his father, as he embarks on a journey of healing, hope and adventure with Pudsey. To accompany the animated special, CBeebies Parenting has developed resources, advice and guidance to support families in navigating conversations around grief and loss with sensitive and age-appropriate information.
A digital library of over 300 CBeebies Bedtime Stories is available on BBC iPlayer.
HG
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