HS208 Noise levels

All practicable steps are taken to ensure that noise levels do not unduly interfere with normal speech and/or communication or cause any child attending distress or harm.

How to show you are complying

To support children’s wellbeing and communication, educators must take all practicable steps to ensure that noise levels do not unduly interfere with normal speech or cause distress or harm.

Managing noise levels benefits everyone in the home. Limit background music and only use amplified sound when it is really needed. Set clear, simple expectations with children about acceptable indoor noise and support them to manage their own volume in ways that suit their age and developmental stage.

You can create quieter spaces by using soft dividers or bookshelves children can snuggle against, adding cushions, and placing carpet or rugs for sitting.

Be mindful of outside noise, like roadworks or nearby construction, and reduce its impact where possible. If you can, find out how long the noise will last and make contingency plans if needed. Keep doors and windows closed when necessary to stop outdoor noise from entering the home.

When assessing whether you comply with HS208

Questions we are likely to ask

• What steps do you take to manage noise levels?

• How do you support children to manage their own noise levels during daily routines and activities, for example, when some children are asleep, and others are awake?

We are likely to look at, measure or count

• How noise is managed in learning and sleep areas.

• Observe the impact of noise in children.

The tools below are here to support you, but you do not have to use them. You can use other tools or methods that work better for your home.

World Health Organisation information about the impact of noise is below.

Noise – World Health Organisation

Managing noise levels matters because loud environments can affect children’s learning, health, and behaviour. Too much noise makes it harder to hear and understand speech, which is key for language development and social interaction.

It can also reduce focus, increase stress, and over time may lead to hearing problems for both children and educators. Long-term exposure can cause fatigue and irritability, impacting behaviour and engagement in learning.

Doing more than the minimum can shape better outcomes for children. Here are some ideas or examples you might like to consider.

To support a calm and communicative environment, educators should create designated quiet zones for rest and emotional regulation. Using rugs, cushions, and soft toys can help absorb sound, and noisy equipment should be avoided near learning or sleep areas.

Engaging children in noise awareness activities, like sound walks or quiet games, can also be a fun and educational way to build awareness.