Easter is a time of excitement, family fun... and a whole lot of chocolate. From foil-wrapped eggs to bunny-shaped treats, it can feel like sweet stuff is everywhere. So how do you help your little one enjoy all the magic of Easter without turning it into a sugar-fuelled stress fest?
We asked Lucy Upton, our Children’s Dietitian, to share some practical tips for approaching Easter chocolate with confidence and balance.
Keep the chocolate chat chill
One of the simplest ways to take the pressure off? Keep your language around chocolate neutral. The more we make a fuss about certain foods – either positively or negatively – the more power they tend to hold. Avoid calling things “bad,” “naughty,” or even “treats.” They’re just... chocolate eggs, cupcakes, buttons. Nothing more, nothing less.
Use real names
When talking about food, especially around kids, it’s helpful to be specific. Rather than lumping Easter snacks into categories like “junk” or “treats,” just call them what they are: a chocolate bunny, a slice of cake, a chocolate egg. It helps little ones learn that no food is off-limits or needs to be hidden or hyped.
Bring chocolate to the table
Instead of hiding it away for after dinner or “only if you eat your broccoli,” include chocolate alongside meals. By offering it in a relaxed, non-pressured way with other foods, you’re showing that chocolate can fit into everyday life — and that there’s no need to obsess over it.
Expect some enthusiasm
Children love chocolate. That’s normal! We get it. If your little one gets excited and wants more, that doesn’t mean they’re being greedy or have no self-control. It just means they’re enjoying something tasty, which is totally okay in the context of a celebratory weekend like Easter.
Set boundaries that work for you
You’re the one who knows your family best. If you’d prefer to limit the amount of chocolate coming into the house, that’s completely fine. Don’t be afraid to have a chat with family or friends in advance. Suggest alternative gifts like puzzles, books, or an activity to do together — things that bring joy without being edible.
One weekend isn't everything!
Maybe your child ends up eating more chocolate than usual over Easter. That’s okay. It’s just a few days — not a snapshot of their overall nutrition. It's all about building good habits over time.
Big thanks to Lucy for her guidance on this! We hope these tips help you enjoy a fun, stress-free Easter with your little one. Check out this video from Lucy over on IG for more expert guidance on tacking Easter treats.
