Is this your first child ? If not you was very lucky that your other children or child went to bed easily at the age of two, they need a tiny bit more understanding and coaxing to go to bed and locking him in a dark room really isnt going to do it.

As parents we all have those moments when we have had enough however clear light of day always tells us that if they are not going to bed and to sleep then there is a reason for it.

Have you tried building up to bedtime with quiet activities such as reading and milky warm drink ? And a nice warm bath ? This may make it easier for your child to settle.

Failing that you can try setting bounderies like the child isnt allowed out of the bedroom while you sit quietly in the hall. Say nothing to the child but each time he comes out of the room place him back in the room and simply say bedtime and say no more.

For the first few nights this will take alot of paitence and may take a few hours however the long term benefits will be alot more positive, if you are not strong enough to do this on your own enlist the help of your partner or a good friend or relative.

I have found through talking to lots of people that this method has NEVER failed.

I hope this has been of some help I do understand....