Caillou is a big boy now. When his sister Rosie goes to bed, he can stay up with Mommy and Daddy. However, when the games and stories are over, when his parents leave the room and close the door, Caillou feels very vulnerable, alone in the dark. Nevertheless, Caillou manages to prove to his parents that he really is a big boy! Bedtime is often a trying time for parents and children. Alone in his room, the child feels frightened. Sleeping with the door closed is an important milestone in growing up and becoming more independent. This step can be difficult for children and for parents, who do not want to see their children in distress. Having mastered his fear of separation, the child feels proud and grown up. Caillou: Good Night illustrates the rewards of being a big boy. Growing up brings with it privileges that younger children do not have. Caillou was proud to be a big boy. While Rosie slept, he could stay up with Mommy and Daddy. Then Caillou plays games that were too hard for Rosie. However, growing up has its difficulties too. The child needs help and encouragement. The teddy bear is a transition object that can represent the parents. The closeness of this object helps the child overcome his fear of physical separation. Caillou doesn’t want to sleep alone in the dark, but Mommy tells him, You’re not alone, Caillou. You’ve got Teddy . As they grow up, children need parents who are firm and consistent. When Caillou cries out that he is scared, Daddy replies, Go to sleep, Caillou. We’re right here . Hugging his teddy bear tightly, Caillou gradually becomes used to the darkness. Once he is calm and more confident, he can hear the comforting sounds around him: He heard water running. It was Mommy having a bath. He heard a voice. It was Daddy talking on the phone . Caillou realizes that even if his parents are out of sight, they are still close by . Caillou felt less alone. Soon he fell asleep . Children learn from their parents’ approval. The next morning, Daddy tells Caillou, You’re a big boy now…You slept with the door closed . Encouraged by his parents’ praise, the child masters one more hurdle of growing up. He earns the rewards of being a big boy: Tonight, we’ll play the game again and I’ll win! says Caillou.
