Children constantly seeking food

Some children particularly those who are neurodivergent, may seem to be constantly hungry, graze throughout the day, or eat very large portions without recognising when they’re full.

This behaviour can be confusing and worrying for parents. But often, it’s less about hunger and more about sensory regulation, emotional comfort, or impulse control.

What you might notice 

• constantly asking for snacks or food between meals
• eating large quantities of food quickly
• taking food in secret or hiding food
• struggling to stop eating once they’ve started
• emotional eating (for example eating when bored, anxious, or upset)
• seeming unaware of fullness cues

Why might this be happening

Sensory seeking

Some children seek oral input such as chewing, sucking, crunching, as a form of self-regulation. Eating offers this sensation, especially foods with strong flavours or textures.

Impulsivity

In children with ADHD, poor impulse control may make it hard to delay gratification or stick to mealtime routines, especially if medication reduces appetite during the day and leads to increased hunger in the evening.

Emotional regulation

Children might turn to food for comfort, distraction, or stimulation. This is especially true if they are struggling with anxiety, boredom, low mood, or uncertainty.

Difficulty reading internal signals

Some children have reduced interoception, meaning they struggle to notice when they’re full or hungry. This can lead to mindless or excessive eating.

Strategies that can help

Create structure and routine

Serve meals and snacks at regular times. Predictable routines can help children feel secure and reduce constant food requests.

Use visual timetables

A clear visual plan of when food is coming can reduce anxiety and repetitive asking.

Provide oral sensory alternatives

Offer safe items for chewing (e.g. chew toys, sugar-free gum, crunchy veg) to meet sensory needs outside of food.

Avoid using food as comfort or reward

Instead, offer praise, attention, or calming activities when your child is upset.

Keep healthy snacks accessible

If grazing is necessary, make fruit, veg, and protein-rich options easy to grab, and limit access to high-sugar/high-fat snacks.

Encourage slow eating

Use timers, small cutlery, or “eating games” to slow down meals and help your child recognise fullness.

When to seek help

Speak with your GP or school health team, if food-seeking behaviour is:

• causing distress or conflict at home
• impacting physical health (for example rapid weight gain)
• linked to anxiety, emotional struggles, or trauma
• paired with restrictive eating at other times (for example binge-purge cycles)

There may be support available through a:

• dietitian
• Emotional Wellbeing Team
• Behaviour Specialist