5 Signs Your Child Might Be Running on Cortisol (And What You Can Do About It)

As parents, we often focus on what our children are doing — the meltdowns, the mood swings, the bedtime battles. But what if we started asking why these behaviours are showing up?

The truth is, many children today are living in a constant state of low-level stress. Their bodies are producing too much of a hormone called cortisol, which is designed to help us survive — not thrive.

Cortisol isn’t the enemy. It’s our body’s natural stress signal. But when it’s switched on too often or for too long, it can leave children feeling anxious, irritable, and exhausted.

So how can you tell if your child is running on cortisol?

Here are five surprising signs to look out for:

1. They Struggle with Transitions

From waking up in the morning to switching off at bedtime, kids stuck in a stress loop often find change hard. Even simple transitions — like moving from screen time to dinner — can trigger resistance or emotional outbursts. Their nervous system is already overwhelmed, and each shift feels like one more demand.

✅ What helps: Build in soft landings between activities: dim the lights, offer a cuddle, or play calming music to signal change.

2. They're Always 'On the Go'

Some children don’t crash — they speed up. Constant movement, talking, fidgeting, and an inability to sit still can be a sign their body is in “fight or flight” mode. It might look like hyperactivity, but it’s often a stress response.

✅ What helps: Gentle, rhythmic activities like walking, swinging, or rocking can help the nervous system settle.

3. They Have Trouble Sleeping

Cortisol levels are meant to drop in the evening, helping the body prepare for rest. But if your child is running on cortisol, they might struggle to fall asleep — or wake up in the night, wired and restless.

✅ What helps: Create a predictable bedtime routine that promotes safety and calm. Consider using a warm bath, story time, or low lighting.

4. They're More Sensitive Than Usual

Does your child seem to overreact to small things — like a dropped spoon or a sibling's glance? When cortisol is high, the brain’s emotional centre (the amygdala) becomes more reactive. This makes it harder for children to regulate their emotions.

✅ What helps: Meet the emotion with calm curiosity. It helps them feel seen and safe.

5. They Say Their Tummy Hurts — A Lot

The gut and the brain are deeply connected. Chronic stress can affect digestion, cause tummy aches, or lead to picky eating patterns. If your child often complains of stomach pain without a clear medical cause, it might be a clue.

✅ What helps: Encourage slow, mindful eating and reduce stress around mealtimes. Probiotic-rich foods and hydration also support gut health.

💛 It’s Not Just Behaviour — It’s Biology

Understanding the biology behind your child’s behaviour changes everything. It shifts the conversation from “What’s wrong with them?” to “What’s happening inside them — and how can I help?”

This is exactly why I created a brand-new course designed to help families understand the role of cortisol, co-regulation, and emotional wellbeing.

It’s a gentle, science-backed approach that gives both parents and children the language and tools to feel safe, seen, and supported.

Ready to learn more? Stay tuned for the course launch this week — it’s everything I wish I’d known earlier, made simple, fun, and family-friendly. 💫