I’m a late-diagnosed AuDHD mom of two amazing boys who keep us on our toes. I’m a researcher by nature, so when our oldest was diagnosed with autism (with a PDA profile) at age 3, I dove headfirst into learning everything I could to help him thrive.
Along the way, I’ve learned so much — about myself, my children, the healthcare and education systems, therapy models, parenting approaches, and what it means to navigate a world full of unsolicited advice from people who don’t understand neurodivergence.
I created The Regulated Nest for a few reasons. First, I’ve felt a pull to start writing again — both because it’s healing for me and because our story might help someone else feel less alone. I also noticed a gap in resources: there’s a growing conversation around PDA kids, but much less support for parents and adults navigating their own neurodivergence alongside their child’s. And even in autism and PDA-focused spaces, there’s still a lot of misunderstanding.
This blog is my way of documenting our journey, sharing the tools and strategies that help us, and creating a space where families — especially those raising PDA kids or exploring their own neurodivergent identity — can feel seen, supported, and regulated.
While our home is neurodivergent-led, the tools and insights shared here can benefit all kinds of nervous systems. Whether you’re parenting a PDA child, newly diagnosed yourself, or just seeking more calm in daily life, you’re welcome here.