Nanny grew up, part way, on a farm, a farm with cows. She learned that cows are placid and co-operative animals, but not if you chase them across the pasture a few times before trying to get them into the barn for milking.
In Nanny's early babysitting experience she, having evidently misplaced the learning about cows, had a brilliant idea while sitting with a two year old. She thought if the two year old were tired he would undoubtedly go to bed willingly and to sleep peacefully and quickly. So, Nanny engaged the two year old in a game that involved running through the circular floor plan of the house. Two Year Old loved the game, and wanted to play long after Nanny was ready to stop. He was not at all sleepy or peaceful. He was eager to play more games and stay up past his usual bedtime.
Nanny learned that his normal sleeping routine had been violated, and he had been energized by exercise.
Adults, like children (and cows) go to bed and to sleep better with peaceful and routine activities before bedtime.
Tonight, notice your own bedtime routines. Recall the routines of your childhood. What can you do to make your present before bed routines more satisfying and peaceful? Pick at least one thing you can do now to improve your own pre-sleep routine.