How to Handle the Easter Chocolate Overload (Without the Guilt)

Let’s be honest—Easter chocolate doesn’t just come from the Easter Bunny anymore. My kids get it from school friends, grandparents, teachers… everywhere! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of chocolate, you’re definitely not alone.

But here’s the thing: as a paediatric dietitian, I don’t actually stress about it. I’ve got a framework that helps take the guilt out of these moments and supports kids in learning how to self-regulate their appetite—yes, even around chocolate.

Trust Their Tummy

There’s strong evidence to support that kids can regulate their intake—when we let them. Ellyn Satter’s “Division of Responsibility” is the gold standard when it comes to feeding kids. In short:

• You decide what, when and where meals happen.

• Your child decides whether to eat and how much.

This approach helps kids stay connected to their hunger cues, which can fluctuate daily (hello, growth spurts and playground marathons!). One day they’ll eat everything in sight, and the next day—hardly a bite. That’s normal. Our job is to trust that their body knows what it needs.

But What About the Chocolate?

Here’s how we handle the Easter stash at our place:

Option 1: Let Them Go For It
On Easter Sunday, I let my kids eat what they want from their chocolate haul. Yes, they go to town. And no, I don’t panic. I make sure the day starts with a high-fibre breakfast, which helps keep things moving (if you know what I mean).

By removing the restriction, chocolate becomes just another food. It loses its power. My kids now often leave Easter eggs untouched after a day or two. The excitement fades, and it’s no longer a big deal. That’s the magic of not turning it into something forbidden.

Option 2: Gentle Structure
If full free access feels too uncomfortable, another great option is to offer free reign on Easter Day, then pack the rest away and offer one or two pieces at snack time each day. Again, no pressure. No judgement. Just calm, consistent access.

What Not to Do

Try not to label chocolate as “bad” or “naughty,” and steer clear of sugar-free versions “for health.” Research shows that restricting foods or making them feel off-limits can backfire—leading to obsession or sneaky eating habits later on.

The Bigger Picture

The goal here isn’t just about chocolate. It’s about raising kids who:

• Enjoy a variety of foods

• Trust their own hunger and fullness

• Feel calm and confident around all foods (yes, even the sugary ones)

These early experiences help shape their long-term relationship with food—and we want that relationship to be a positive one.

So this Easter, take a breath, enjoy the chocolate (yourself, too!), and use this time as a chance to support your child’s growing confidence around food.

Happy Easter from my family to yours 💛
Julia
Paediatric Dietitian & Founder of Nudie Rudie Lunch Box