My DS is 5. He's never been the world's best sleeper but sleeps through these days and has given up trying to get in my bed. Ever since the toddler days, however, he has struggled to get to sleep. This is now getting really late, for example its 10 to 9 at night where we live and he's still talking away to himself and tossing and turning. He ends up wriggling about and up the other end of the bed, singing to himself, calling out questions (which we dont answer!) Eventually, if it goes on too long he starts getting upset and calling out as he's fed up of being alone.
He has a good evening routine: dinner, a bit of TV or a swim, shower, stories, then 30 mins to look through his own books (his reading time). Then his light goes off (at 7,30-7.45). He has to be up for school at 6 or 6.15 and we always have to wake him because he's been awake so late. Sometimes it's as late as 9.30 or 10 before he drops off. Any ideas what we can try to help him settle more calmly? I've tried music but he just ends up calling out and asking questions about it. He doesn't like milk so warm milk wont work, and anyway I dont want him up for a pee!
I feel sorry for him, but also frustrated as I know he isnt getting enough sleep for school and he looks tired. He is keeping up for now but he's only in reception equivalent.
Any difficult settling advice gratefully received!