Hi D.,
Kids were the start of my sleeping woes. I self diagnosed myself with anticipatory arousal - like drs on call and firefighters, you almost will yourself to a lighter sleep so you can hear when you are needed. After awhile, it felt like I was in the listening state all night. It also morphed into what I call busy head insomnia - making lists, thinking about important and often insignificant things, singing stupid songs, etc. Tried some meds and did not like them, plus heard so many sleep wandering stories. Did not really want to do Tylenol PM on a long standing basis either. There are many natural formulations that can help too as well as sleepy time tea. It does not sound like you have problems going to sleep but rather staying asleep.
What made a huge difference in my life was when someone lent me the Nikken sleep system. I was a huge skeptic, but was desperate to try anything natural. I started to notice that if I did wake up, I was able to get back to sleep better, my arthritis pains were not as bad (which could keep me awake), and even if I did wake up early, I felt more rested because the quality of the hours I did get were better. I realized it was deeper sleep when everyone was talking about a wind storm the next day and I was clueless! That felt good because I hear everything.
You can learn more about the patented technologies at www.nikken.com/sleepcenter and I can send you some research studies as well. It is the only sleep system endorsed by the Worldwide Federation of Chiropractics. If you are a non-smoking family, since you are local I could even lend you one to try for 2 weeks. Although sometimes I still wake up earlier than I like - do to hormones or situational stress, getting better quality sleep definitely has changed my life and my health.
The other thing I would stress is get all electrical devices out of your bedroom as well as any cordless phones and definitely your cell phone. Make it as dark as possible too. If you use an alarm clock move it across the room or go to livinghealthiernow.com to learn more about a patented technology that you can use on all these electromagnetic radiation emitting devices to lessen the impact on your cells, hormones, DNA and blood brain barrier. Lots of research, articles, info and even a TV show (starring me!) on keeping your family safer too. Don't let your kids talk or play with your cell phone (or cordless phone). A 2 minute call alters their brain activity for up to 1 hour. Nutshell, it all can impact your sleep cycles too.
Also work on your sleep hygiene - how you prep to go to sleep. Look at what wakes you up - need to go to the bathroom, too hot, too cold, snoring husband, etc.
Let me know if you have any questions on any of it. Hang in there.
S.