Kids are often loud when they play because of their excitement.
The Science Behind the Noise
When children engage in play, especially physically active or highly imaginative games, they experience a surge of excitement. According to Dr. Jerry Bubrick, a senior psychologist at the Child Mind Institute Anxiety Disorder Center, similar to a dog wagging its tail when they are happy, kids naturally get louder as their excitement kicks in. This isn't necessarily a conscious decision; it's an automatic response to the emotional and physical stimulation they are experiencing.
Understanding the Volume
Here are some reasons why kids' play often involves a lot of noise:
- Expressing Joy and Enthusiasm: Loudness is a way for kids to show their happiness and excitement.
- Physical Activity: Running, jumping, and other physical activities often come with increased vocalizations.
- Immersive Play: When children get lost in imaginative play, they may adopt loud voices to match their roles.
- Lack of Volume Control: Young children are still learning how to regulate their voices and understand social norms about acceptable noise levels.
- Attention-Seeking: Sometimes, children get loud to draw attention from others, especially when playing in a group.
Examples of Loud Play
| Play Scenario | Typical Noises | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Tag | Shrieks, giggles, shouts | Excitement and physical exertion |
| Role-playing | Dramatic voices, sound effects | Immersion in the character/scenario |
| Building Blocks | Exclamations when towers topple, excited chatter | Problem-solving and achievement |
Managing the Noise
While loud play is a natural part of childhood, there are some ways adults can help manage the noise without stifling the fun:
- Designated Play Areas: Set up spaces, either indoors or outdoors, where louder play is acceptable.
- Establish Voice Levels: Teach kids about using different voice levels and when they are appropriate.
- Provide Quiet Time: Alternate active play with periods of quiet activities to help kids decompress.
- Model Appropriate Volume: Adults can demonstrate how to speak in different situations.
- Use Positive Reinforcement: Praise children when they use quieter voices during play.
In summary, children's loudness during play is primarily driven by their excitement and lack of fully developed self-regulation skills. It's a natural part of their development and learning.
