Playing Before Eating

Could it be that your child’s uneaten lunch isn’t the problem… the schedule is? A simple shift happening in Aussie schools is transforming behaviour, boosting learning, and - finally - getting kids to actually eat their food. This episode unpacks the “play first, eat later” approach - and why it works far better than anything you can pack in a lunchbox. If your child comes home hangry, exhausted, or with a full lunchbox… this might be the missing piece. KEY POINTS Why kids skip lunch (and it’s not about the food) The “play first” model changing school behaviour and focus How movement drives appetite, regulation, and learning The hidden link between uneaten lunches and afternoon meltdowns Why the last 10 minutes of playtime often trigger the biggest issues A simple school-level change with measurable results QUOTE OF THE EPISODE “Calories change kids. Food isn’t just fuel - it’s behaviour, focus, and emotional regulation.” RESOURCES MENTIONED ABC News article on “play first, eat later” school model Conversations with teachers and school communities School P&C (Parents & Citizens) groups as a starting point for change ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS Start the conversation with your school or P&C about “play first” Focus less on perfect lunches and more on eating opportunity Talk with your child about when they feel hungry during the day Advocate for structural changes - not just lunchbox fixes Watch for after-school behaviour as a clue to under-fuelling See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.