Bedtime stories are an important part of growing up, with moral messages hidden beneath adventures and magic. Reading books helps kids to build their vocabulary, confidence and their imagination.
However, as times change some of the books we loved as children might not actually suit the modern mindset, perpetuating outdated stereotypes that parents wouldn't want their little ones learning.
While we might love the story for the nostalgia it brings us, one childcare expert has said she's ditching some classic tales from her pre-school classroom. Parents might be shocked to hear favourites like Paddington Bear and Aladdin are on her list.
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Early Years teacher Megi shared her no-go books on her TikTok, @megi_learn_and_play, which has racked up thousands of views. The caption explained: "In recent years, there has been a movement in early years settings to remove certain books from their collections.
"This is often due to concerns over the messages that these books may convey, and a desire to promote more inclusive and diverse representation in children's literature. There are many books that have amazing stories and will stay in my shelves for years to come."
First up is The Rainbow Fish, written and illustrated by Marcus Pfister, which she says she's ditching "because it's actually a story about a fish who has no friends unless she gives away all her shiny scales away".
This is followed Anthony Brown's My Mum, as Megi claimed: "It has a page I really dislike." The book lists what the mum does and Megi said: "I don't think that's a healthy relationship because why is no one helping her? She shouldn't be doing that all by herself."
British classic Paddington Bear is also cut from her reading list as Megi doesn't "really like the story".
She added that often parents will read Paddington to children at home so there's no need to keep it in schools.
Also ditched was Aladdin, with the pre-school educator expanding on her thoughts in the comments, she added: "Portrayal of Aladdin himself can be problematic.
"He is often depicted as a stereotype of an Arab or Middle Eastern man, with a turban, harem pants."
Megi ditched Peppa Pig books too and explained: "I want to show something new in the classroom."
Some viewers supported the teacher, with one person saying: "Goldilocks is about a little girl who breaks into a strangers home. No thanks."
Another added: "I said the exact same about rainbow fish the other day at work! I work in a pre school."
A mum said: "I loved rainbow fish as a kid but when I read it to my son last night I was like huh? So he has to share something very special to him to have any friends? What about his own happiness? No one should be forced to share, it's a thing you want to do not have to."
However, other books proved controversial with many defending My Mum, pointing out that single mums do everything themselves. One said: "I don't see why you are getting rid of the mum book. I carry many bags by myself and that is life at times."
"What about the single mum out there that her kids see as a strong women who provided and protected them," added another user.
Another teacher argued: "My class adores Rainbow fish !!!!! They learned that it's important to not show off and to share."
In the comments, Megi added: "It is my personal preference for the classroom, there is still a place for these books in children's bookshelves."
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