Sometimes Moms Need Headphones Too

I’ve always been sensitive to loud noises. As a child, fireworks and thunder absolutely terrified me. So it’s a little ironic that, as an adult, I now live in a home filled with sound.

Many individuals with non-verbal autism express themselves not with words, but with sounds—loud sounds. Max is no exception. Whether he’s excited, bored, overstimulated, or frustrated, vocalizing helps him cope and communicate his emotions. And let’s just say... volume control isn’t really part of the equation.

Living with Max’s Soundtrack

Over time, I’ve learned to adapt. These days, if Max is happy, I often barely notice the noise. Our home is constantly filled with a kind of background chorus—humming, squealing, laughing, or echoing. It’s just the way Max is wired.

But there are still moments when the sheer intensity of sound becomes too much. And in those moments, I need help dialing it down.

In the early years, I didn’t have a solution. I’d quietly step outside or retreat to another room just to get a break. That worked—sort of—but it also meant leaving Max behind, even when I didn’t want to.

Finding My Own Tool: Headphones

Now, I’ve found something that works—headphones. Or more specifically, wireless earbuds. Just like Max uses noise-canceling headphones to manage overstimulating environments, I’ve found that earbuds help me manage the constant noise at home.

Sometimes I listen to a podcast, a favorite show, or calming music. Other times, I don’t play anything at all—I just enjoy the way the earbuds soften the volume around me. That little bit of noise diffusion can make all the difference.

What’s great is that I don’t have to leave the room. I can stay nearby, be present with Max, and still take care of my own sensory needs.

A Shared Understanding

Wearing earbuds has done more than just help me manage noise. It’s given me a deeper understanding of what Max might be feeling when he’s overwhelmed by sound. It's a small glimpse into his world—and a reminder that we all need tools to help us function at our best.