How can I teach my child to manage fear of loud noises or sudden sounds? 

Parenting Perspective 

Validate Their Fear 

Many children feel frightened by loud noises, alarms, thunder, shouting, or sudden bangs. This fear can cause them to cling to you, cry, or refuse to enter places where they expect loud sounds. Instead of brushing it off, help your child to understand that their body is reacting to protect them, and that you will guide them to feel safer. Use calm words: ‘It is okay to feel scared of loud sounds. Your heart is just trying to keep you safe.’ 

Prepare and Practice 

Before you go to a place where loud noise might occur, talk through what they might hear. Describe what the sound is and why it happens: ‘The fire alarm is loud so that everyone knows to leave safely.’ Practise what they can do when they hear it, such as covering their ears, holding your hand tightly, or taking deep breaths. Some children feel better with ear defenders or soft headphones in certain places. You can use role-play at home to show them that the noise might feel big but will not last forever. Share your own memories: ‘When I was little, I felt scared of thunder too. I used to say a little prayer and count to ten.’ Praise your child whenever they manage to cope with a loud sound, even if they still feel nervous inside. These small steps help them to see that fear does not have to control them; they have gentle tools and your calm presence to help them feel braver each time. 

Spiritual Insight 

Islam teaches us that Allah Almighty knows every hidden fear in our hearts and protects us when we feel shaken. Allah Almighty states in the noble Quran at Surah Aalai Imran (3), Verse 173: 

‘…And they said: Allah Almighty (Alone) is sufficient for us, and He is excellent as the Ultimate Trustee (of all our affairs).‘

Share this Ayah with your child to remind them that Allah Almighty watches over them when loud sounds feel like too much. 

It is recorded in Jami Tirmidhi, Hadith 3372, that the holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said: 

‘Dua is worship.‘

Encourage your child to whisper a simple Dua when they hear a sudden noise: ‘Ya Allah, calm my heart and keep me safe.’ Over time, these small spiritual habits help your child to trust that they are never alone with their fears, that every loud moment is seen by Allah Almighty and handled with His gentle care. By staying close and calm, you show your child that bravery grows quietly, step by step, with trust in Allah Almighty’s constant protection.