Why Some Toddlers Are Sensitive to Loud Noises (And When It’s Normal)
Many toddlers suddenly start covering their ears, crying, or avoiding everyday noises — like vacuums, hand dryers, or toilets flushing — even though those same sounds never bothered them as babies. The key thing to know is this: sound sensitivity is often not present before 18 months of age and when it suddenly appears in a toddler, it is temporary! This is considered a part of normal development.After about 18 months, toddlers become much more aware of their environment. Their hearing detection improves faster than their ability to regulate sensory input. So while they hear more and notice more, their brains are still learning how to filter sounds and decide what’s important — which can make certain noises feel overwhelming.
Temporary sound sensitivity most commonly shows up between 18 months and 3 years of age — a time of rapid brain and sensory development. Parents often say, ‘They were fine with noise before — and now suddenly everything is too loud. That sudden change is very typical during this stage.
The good news is that for most children, sound sensitivity improves on its own as the nervous system matures. In typical development:
✔ Reactions gradually become less intense
✔ Toddlers tolerate a wider range of sounds
✔ Coping skills improve as language and emotional regulation develop
Most children show significant improvement by preschool age, usually between 3 and 5 years old, and many parents notice it fading even earlier. Sound sensitivity is more likely part of normal development if:
✨ Sensitivity wasn’t present in infancy
✨ Reactions are limited to specific loud or sudden sounds
✨ Your child calms once the noise stops
✨ There’s steady progress in speech, play, and social skills
✨ Sensitivity decreases over time rather than worsening
So how can parents help during this toddler stage of development?
While your child’s system is maturing, you can help by:
🔹 Validating their reaction without reinforcing fear
🔹 Giving advance warning before loud sounds
🔹 Avoiding forced exposure
🔹 Modeling calm responses
🔹 Allowing quiet recovery time when needed
Although this usually resolves with time, it’s worth checking in with a pediatrician or ENT if:
❗ Sound sensitivity is severe or worsening
❗ It continues well beyond preschool age
❗ It significantly interferes with daily activities
❗ There are additional developmental concerns
Early reassurance or guidance can make a big difference. If your toddler develops sound sensitivity after 18 months, remember — in most cases, this is a temporary stage that improves as the brain grows and adapts.
You’re not doing anything wrong — and your child’s nervous system is learning how to handle the world.
Video created by Dr. Christopher Chang:
https://www.FauquierENT.net
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