I’ve always known I was highly sensitive, but it never occurred to me how much it affected my parenting.
Overestimation triggers me. Loud noises, constant yells for “mom!!!!”, and rooms in disarray make me feel on tilt.
I like calm, quiet, and clean. Because it feels like control to me. Unfortunately, my family with two boys under 10 often pulls the rug out from under me.
Screaming (even happy squeals)
Banging, thumping, stomping
Constant voices: “mom, watch this…. Mom, what’s that?”
It’s no wonder this highly sensitive mama feels off kilter most of the day. 
This is the overstimulated side of motherhood. And I hate to say it, but it goes with the territory.
A house full of bangs, clangs and squeals means energized, healthy, happy children.
Constant chatter of “mama, mommy, mom…” means my kids count on me to be here.
It won’t always be this way. Someday the house will be quiet. Someday the floors will be spotless and everything will be delicately put in its place.
Just not now. I will have the rest of my life for a clean quiet house. But right now, I’m learning how to embrace the stimulation.
But I also bought some noise canceling headphones to dull down the noise ever so slightly. Because I may be a mom, but my needs matter too.
Zoe says
I love this. I don’t have. Children yet, but I have ADHD and hypersensitivity. I get overstimulated easily and I fear it will greatly affect my parenting. I’m scared of being a bad mom because of these things. I am grateful that you shared this.
You are welcome! And the fact that you’re already thinking about those things tells me you’re going to be an amazing mom