I have one word for parents who struggle with their kids going to bed at night:

Routine.

When kids have a routine to follow, it takes some of the stress out of going to bed.  They feel secure because they know what to expect, even if, at first, they resist tooth and nail to complying.

Some quick tips:

• turn the TV off at a set time, leaving at least 30 minutes of 'wind down' time before bed.  Let the routine go slow-paced instead of rushing them to bed
• with the TV off, have them pick up toys and straighten up.  Toys left out get captured by the cleaning fairies, and aren't returned for a few days.
• potty, teeth, wash up.  Make it routine to establish good hygiene for later.
• let them pick one story.  One, so it doesn't drag forever.  But let them pick so they have some control and a 'fun part' in their routine.
• with lights out, spend a little more time with them.  Help them unwind with a song, or prayer, and some night-night kisses.  "Eskimos and butterflies" are great!  It helps them feel secure with you.

Do this repeatedly and just calmly stay with it.  When they fight, just shrug and keep going along with the routine, as if it's really out of your control.

Other tips:  avoid chocolate, sugary foods, and caffeine for at least an hour before bed.  If they need a night-light to keep away monsters, that's fine.  And if they are prone to falling out of bed, put up baby bed rails until they get used to the big bed.

The routine is what you make it.  Every time you negotiate it, it's like starting over.  Be strong, and put up with a few weeks of resistance.  In the end, it will be worth it.

Linda - http://how.best-free-information.com - The "How" Blog