My son also went through an afraid of the dark on monster phase. No amount of telling him there were no monsters would work, or that monsters weren't real so we finally gave in and taught him how to make them go away. He sticks out his tounge and says go away monsters! We also showed him cookies monster and explained that some monsters just bring yummy cookies. Now he's ok with monsters and we no longer have that bed time fight. As for scared of the dark we either leave the hallway light on and door open or door closed and his lamp on. Sure it wastes electricity but it solves the problem and my sleep is more important.

What ages are your children?