The Regulated Nest

Being a neurodivergent parent means I often need co-regulation just as much as — and sometimes even more than — my kids do.
And while our family has a shared calm-down toolkit, there are a few tools I keep close just for me.

These aren’t fancy. They’re not one-size-fits-all.
But they help me feel more grounded, less overstimulated, and more able to show up with compassion — for my kids and myself.

---

🛠️ My Favorite Regulation Tools (for Me!)

(Click the product name to view it on Amazon — affiliate links included)

---

1. Loop Earplugs

These help take the edge off of everyday noise — like two kids screaming at once, the chaos of transitions, or simply needing help with focus during work.
They’re discreet and comfortable, and I use them when I want to stay engaged without getting overwhelmed by the volume. So… literally every day, they stay in my pocket. I have a backup pair just in case, AND (when we can actually get out for a date night) a concert pair that filters out higher decibels.

---

2. Stimagz

I fidget constantly — during phone calls or meetings (esp IEP meetings), any time I do something that requires sitting, or while transitioning between tasks.
Having something repetitive and soothing to do with my hands keeps my nervous system more steady without tuning out.

I had these saved in my wish list for so long because of the price. After enough IG ads…I finally had decided to try them. I so so regret not getting it sooner. If you’re even slightly intrigued – just go for it.

---

3. Visual Gravity Timer

Yes, I use one too!
Time blindness and task switching has always been really tough for me. Using a visual timer helps me stay paced and avoid that frantic, “what was I doing again?” spiral, as well as remembering to take breaks. I have been enjoying this gravity timer – it is quick and easy to use, while offering a couple different function options.

---

4. Weighted Blanket or Lap Pad

Early mornings, late evenings, or moments when my nervous system crashes — weighted items help ground me in my body.
I keep a lap pad near my desk and a weighted blanket on the couch for end-of-day decompression.

---

5. Visual Task Lists & Whiteboard Lists

I use a dry-erase board and a digital note app (like Google Keep) to keep quick reminders visually accessible.
Seeing tasks written out helps me reduce overwhelm and decision fatigue, especially when executive function is low. And, who doesn’t love a dry-erase board?

Next level alternative – Smart Wall Planner/Calendar – if you are able to, and want to level up… a digital calendar is life changing. Or at least it was for me. It is definitely an investment, but has saved me from missing multiple appointments, and from missing grocery list items. The calendar syncs with your phone and you can access reminders, meals, lists and more from one app. Check it out, save it to your wish list and maybe snag it on prime day, or add it to your bday/holiday gift wish list. 🙂

---

💬 Want to Add to the List?

Leave a comment or DM me on Instagram @theregulatednest — I’d love to hear if you have any questions and what tools work for you, too

---

💛 A Gentle Reminder

You’re not being dramatic. You’re not “overthinking.”
You’re recognizing that your own nervous system deserves care, too.

Parenting while neurodivergent is a layered experience — full of pattern recognition, sensory overload, intuitive moments, and invisible, thankless effort.

These tools don’t “fix” that.
But they help me show up as a regulated version of myself rather than a masked one. And that is what my kids need. That is enough.

---

🪴 Take What Helps

You can start small. One tool at a time…one shift. One moment of honoring your own needs.

You’re doing the best you can — and that’s exactly what this space is for.

---

Disclosure:
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting our nest!