For our kids, a fixed bed-time routine is working very well. Usually we're having some "couchtime" after dinner, brush teeth, read a bedtime story and then they usually fall asleep easy. The routine is very important for small children. I know some people who let their kids decide when to go to bed, but this isn't the option we want to go. We also need some time for ourselves and just putting them in front of the TV isn't an option either.
Anyhow good post @bembelmaniac!