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Hangry Child? Here's how to Help

Image of baby feeding himself with a spoon. Blog about Hangry babies and how to give them healthy snacks.

Hangry = hungry and angry.

Hunger often results in ‘bad’ behaviour.. This unmet physical need causes an imbalance within the nervous system which regulates arousal. Hunger causes blood sugar levels to fall which the body compensates for by releasing cortisol and adrenaline.

It makes sense that these hormones could trigger feelings of anger, anxiety and general agitation.

Of course not every tantrum will be because they are hungry, so it’s important that we don’t fulfill emotional needs through food, but if it’s been a while since your child last ate something, a snack might just help. 

Help your child regulate their mood

1) Always give them breakfast. Children who have breakfast have improved behaviour, wellbeing and academic performance

2) Have meals at regular times. Hunger is linked to our circadian rhythm so eating at predictable times can help. 

3) Keep blood sugar levels stable with healthy snacks in between meals.. 

Snacks are important for kids for a number of reasons.

  • Nutrition: Snacks can help kids get the nutrients they need to stay healthy and grow. Kids need a variety of nutrients, including protein, carbohydrates, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Snacks can help provide these nutrients, especially if they are made with whole foods.
  • Energy: Snacks can help kids stay energized throughout the day. Kids have high energy needs, and snacks can help them refuel between meals.
  • Appetite control: Snacks can help kids control their appetite at mealtimes. If kids are too hungry at mealtime, they may be more likely to overeat. Snacks can help them feel full so they are less likely to overeat at mealtimes.
  • Focus: Snacks can help kids focus and learn better. Kids who have low blood sugar levels may have trouble focusing and learning. Snacks can help keep blood sugar levels stable, which can help kids focus and learn better.
  • Happiness: Snacks can make kids happy. Kids love to eat, and snacks can be a fun and enjoyable way to get some extra nutrients. Snacks can also be a way for kids to bond with their families and friends.

When choosing snacks for kids, it is important to choose snacks that are healthy and nutritious. Some good choices include:

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Yoghurt
  • Whole-grain crackers
  • Nuts and seeds
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Cheese
  • Trail mix
  • Whole-wheat toast
  • Nut butter sandwich (lots of kids prefer almond butter as it’s sweeter than peanut)
  • Houmous and vegetables

It is also important to limit the amount of sugary snacks and processed foods that kids eat. These foods can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and other health problems.

Hanger problems... what to do

Question: But Jem my kid says they’re hungry but are refusing the healthy snack I’m offering

Answer: You need to question whether they are actually hungry, or just hankering after a sweet treat like a biscuit!

Or are they thirsty? Sometimes the symptoms feel the same…

Or are they bored? Might be time for a change of scenery.

Question: They are asking for a yoghurt (which is healthy) but I’m about to serve dinner. 

Answer: It’s OK to tell them they need to wait a short while. You may well end up with them having a bit of a tantrum (read my tips on handling those here) Alternatively, could they be eating the vegetables you’ll be serving with dinner now?

Hi, I'm Jem

I have always been interested in gentle parenting techniques, and as a self confessed ‘geek’ I spent many a sleepless night reading. I became so interested in infant brain development and the science of sleep that I completed my Holistic Sleep Coaching qualification, mentored by the wonderful Lyndsey Hookway. I have been working as a toddler sleep consultant since 2018, I am based in Manchester but I can work with you from anywhere in the world online!

This coupled with my experience in settling techniques, toddler negotiation strategies and analysis of naps and sleep needs gives me a wealth of knowledge to be able help you. 

If you’re looking for help with making changes to your family’s sleeping habits and would like to speak to a toddler sleep consultant who is down to earth and sympathetic and will focus on you and your family with empathy and understanding then please get in touch.

I would love to hear from you!

Jem x

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Where to next?

Click here to book a free chat with Jem to discuss sleep packages and ensure we are a good fit. There is no obligation and I will only take clients where I genuinely feel I can change their lives.

I have three simple toddler sleep support packages, Read more about them here.

Yes! You can check out my free sleep resources here.

Perfect, in my book The Better Sleep Blueprint I share all my best guides and strategies for sleep up to 2 years of age. Check it out here.

You can also read more of my blogs here.