First, choose a bedtime that is reasonable for the childs age, and stick with it!!! Weekends may be a bit longer if behavior permits it .

Second, I was always an outside person getting excercise with my child weather permitting, so this tires yourself and the child out.

Third,I had a routine each and every night , and allowed a certain amount of time, for an age appropriate show before bathtime. This worked too!

Fourth, Finally bathtime, which baths are usually soothing, and calms you down, get dressed for bed, brush teeth etc. No more drinks one hour before bedtime!

Fifth, if we could get to bed within five to ten minutes, including hugs, kisses to mom & dad, pets etc, then we would read a night time story, and if child went to bed without getting up for anything or calling our names over and over, then I would give an extra few minutes to stay up the next night. It took awhile to come to this plan, and it was hard, but the reward system does work, as long as it’s reasonable. You are the parent, so be strong and be firm!!