I really sympathise. Little'un was the same. From a baby we would get him off at about 9pm - he would fuss around all night then wake up ready to go at 4 am. If he slept at all during the day - say a half hour at midday - then that would translate into 2 hours extra awake at night. We were like ZOMBIES! One of the reasons I couldn't hold down a job.
When we went to his new school there was quite an old fashioned teacher (though she herself was very young) who said little'un wasn't being stretched enough during the day. After 2 weeks in her class we were finally getting some sleep (admittedly at this point he was just 9 years old).
One thing we did find helpful - admittedly a bit later on - was talking books/CDs. We would put him to bed at around 8, then put on a CD (usually History, or Shakespeare, or Greek myths.....you know what I mean) and he was happy to stay in besd doing his drawing and listening to the stories. He would fall asleep - give us a break - and also retain loads of stuff which amazes us and his friends and teachers. This might work if your little'un will go for this and is old enough.
GeoMamma - Until recently I never switched off either (I'm fast approaching 51). I used to put the radio on and listen to stories or something (Not news or politics - Grrrr!). We have BBC Radio4 and Radio 7 which broadcast these. I know your PBS is quite good too. maybe you could podcast some BBC shows and listen as you drift off. Or maybe some music. I know the gentle stuff never worked for me, but some Bach, Handel and Mozart with lots of counterpoint used to do the trick(?)
I really do sympathise.
