It’s a familiar scene for many parents - you’ve settled your child into bed, but minutes later they’re back with “I’m hungry,” “One more story,” or “Can I have a drink of water?”

While genuine hunger can certainly play a role, there are often deeper factors at play. In this episode, naturopath Georgia Harding and psychotherapist Jane Little explore both the emotional and physiological reasons behind bedtime resistance, and share practical ways to support children in winding down for the night.

Together, they discuss:

• How requests for food at bedtime can sometimes be a way of seeking emotional connection
  
  
• The role of anxiety in children and how it can be mistaken for hunger
  
  
• The importance of co-regulation and presence in helping children settle
  
  
• Practical tools to support nervous system regulation, from breathing techniques to weighted blankets
  
  
• Why balanced meals - particularly adequate protein and fibre are essential for stable appetite and mood regulation

Georgia offers insights into how nutritional factors, especially blood sugar balance, can influence a child’s ability to settle at night. Jane brings her expertise in child psychology to unpack the emotional needs and developmental stages that can affect bedtime behaviour.

This episode offers both perspective and practical strategies for parents wanting to respond to bedtime challenges with empathy, understanding, and confidence - helping children feel nourished both emotionally and physically.

👉 Explore the Raising Well Nourished Kids online program - designed to help you raise confident, adventurous eaters using gentle, effective strategies.

🥪 Looking for healthy lunchbox inspiration?

Discover The Lunchbox Formula - Georgia’s simple, step-by-step method for creating nourishing lunchboxes quickly and without the overwhelm.

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