How many times have you been asked to do something straight away and not really felt like doing it so wait about 5/10mins before you do it?? Lots I bet, well it’s the same for children start about 2 hours before bed time and let them know what is coming next at each step for example
We are going to have a play/crazy time etc… for ½ an hour then after that we are going for a bath. Then about 10 min before end ok bath in 10 lets start to tidy your toys 5 mins before the end say to the child in 5 mins we are going for a bath and count down now 2 mins in 1 min ok now its time…
(Try using lavender oil or Johnson’s soothing bedtime bubble bath)
Once in the bath about 5 mins again before you want them to get out, ok 5 mins left lets start to tidy your bath toys.. make a game out of it, can you put them all away before we finish singing twinkle twinkle etc… Again use the counting down method, and importantly when we get out the bath then we will put on pj’s and have bed time story and then to bed (re enforcing routine in childs mind as you go along)
When out of the bath snuggle in a blanket on the sofa, or even better in bed and tell the child ok 1 story or 1 chapter and then it will be lights out and sleep time. (Try choosing a story that isn’t too full of adventure – The baby who wouldn’t go to bed is a good one or guess how muchI love you) When getting to end pages , gentle reminder story near the end and then it will be time to go to sleep.
Then give them a kiss goodnight and tell them its time for sleep and that you can’t wait to see them in the morning for a big cuddle!
If they continue to get out of bed as @PerryDolia has said, this is tried and tested technique by many mums/dads etc.. and generally works IF you can stay clam!!
Good Luck and remember children like routine and knowing what is coming next, it gives them time to prepare and gives them time to understand what is being asked of them.
and welcome to fluther