There are several steps that should be taken to ease a child into bedtime. These steps are especially important with younger children who may be experiencing some level of separation anxiety.
The first of these steps is to let your child know well in advance that bedtime is approaching. This can be done in a couple of different ways. For smaller children, let them know that the activities they are engaged in are about to end and will the last ones of the day. This normally works best if they are watching a show or reading a book, something that has a definite end. With an older child, letting them know what time they will be going to bed can be helpful. They can then see the clock and know that bedtime is getting closer, therefore, affectively preparing themselves for a positive transition into bed.
Another positive approach is to let your child know what fun activity is in store for them the following day. If there are special plans, let them know that getting enough sleep is an important part of enjoying themselves the next day. If the next day does not hold anything overly exciting, make it seem like it will. Tell them a little highlight of the day to come. It could be something as simple as being able to help make lunch or doing a small craft. Whatever it is, make it sound fun and explain that they need plenty of sleep to enjoy it.
Perhaps the best solution for getting children to bed with a minimal amount of fussing is to set up a routine. A constant routine will help parents win the bedtime battle more often than with any other avenue. The routine should have a set bedtime, a story, a trip to the potty, perhaps a drink, a kiss and hug. When saying good night to your child, tell them you love them and give them a kiss and a hug. Leave the room. Let them get to sleep on their own, this may be difficult for some kids as well as for some parents, but it is an important skill for them to learn.
Some children may need a little extra something to help them drift off to dreamland. Try letting a child sleep with a shirt that has a familiar scent, perhaps moms perfume. A nightlight is especially appreciated by children who are afraid of the dark; they come in a variety of designs and characters to match your child‘s likes and interests.
If your child is convinced there are monsters in their room, try giving them monster repellant. This is a solution of water and scent, lavender works particularly well. Mix this together and pour in a nice spray bottle. Set the spray bottle to mist and arm the child with the repellent. When they are frightened by a monster, instruct them to spray the repellent to scare it away. As an added bonus, the lavender scent will also help lull your child to sleep.