Getting kids to sleep

[auntysocial]

My kids have never really gotten to sleep before 10pm but they're always knackered the next day and my youngest suffers from behavioural problems where lack of sleep could be a contributing factor.

How do I get them to sleep early? My youngest is currently going to bed at 7:30pm and my eldest at 8pm but by 10.30pm they're both still awake messing around, shouting to each other, "going to toilet" etc...completely sick of it, often feel like going in and slapping them everytime I hear a noise.

What can I do?

i have this problem with my five year old i have to leave her door open i have to wait on the stairs till she goes to sleep which could be up to 2 hrs later she makes all the excuses toilet drink etc it does wear you down> i totally understand where your coming from

What about a warning period of ten mins before bed, they get a drink, go to toilet, etc. After that it's tough luck (unless they are dancing around desperately). Sit outside and tell em to get back in bed, and maybe a reward for a certain amount of good nights?

Ive tried sitting outside their rooms, one night I sat there from 8pm until 10pm and it was all quiet...I got up to move away slowly and heard "she's gone" coming from my youngests bedroom. it makes me so angry, especially as Im a single mum so litrally get no time to myself either.

What is your routine like before bed? I always try to calm them down with bath, supper and story.
Are they eating lots of additives during the day that could be keeping them awake? My DS1 is a nightmare if he has anything with food colouring in! His behaviour can go downhill in 30 minutes if he is given something he shouldn't have! (nightmare at MIL house)
Other than that, have not got much advice I'm afraid.
Good luck - you could always sit on the landing with a bottle of wine to make the waiting a bit easier