5 tips to help your toddler cope with loud noises

Has your toddler ever burst into tears at the sound of the vacuum cleaner, a bathroom hand dryer, or a clap of thunder? Sudden, loud noises can be startling or even scary to young children. Here are some ways you can help your toddler in the moment: 

Give them a little warning  

Whenever you can, let your toddler know when they’re about to hear a loud noise. Explain that you’re going to turn on the kitchen blender, start the hand dryer in a public bathroom, or flush an airplane toilet. Help your child cover their ears and tell them how long the noise is likely to last: “The blender is going to be loud for 10 seconds. Let’s count to 10 together.”

Get them involved 

Giving your toddler some power over loud noises may reduce their sensitivity. You can let your child start and stop the noise by pushing a button, flipping a switch, or just saying “go” and “stop” to direct you. 

Show them loud noises can be fun

Help your toddler associate noisy sounds with something they enjoy doing. For example, you can use the blender to make a smoothie together or blow a cotton ball across the bathroom floor with a hair dryer. Note: Always closely supervise your toddler when using electric appliances, especially near water.

Help them learn to anticipate sounds

Some loud sounds are predictable, even if they’re out of your control. You can teach your toddler that a flash of light during a fireworks display or thunderstorm typically comes before a big sound. They can cover their ears in anticipation. 

Express both understanding and confidence

Acknowledge your toddler’s feelings and comfort them if they’re upset by a loud sound, but don’t dwell on it. Instead, help them move past it. You could say,  “That sound surprised you! It surprised me, too. Let’s have a hug, then we can keep playing.” If your toddler’s distress over loud noises impacts everyday life, check with their pediatrician for advice on how to manage their sensitivity to sound.