Neighbors Sue Home-Schooling Family Over ‘Loud’ Kids Playing Outside

home insemination Kit

In a rather unusual turn of events, a couple in Texas has decided to take legal action against their neighbors because they find the sounds of their home-schooled children playing outdoors too disruptive. It seems that some folks just can’t tolerate the joyous noise that kids naturally bring to the world. We’ve all heard complaints about kids being too loud in public places, but this couple has taken their grievances to court over what they see as excessive noise from the neighboring family.

Lila Johnson, a home-schooling mom from Plano, Texas, recently shared with CBS DFW News that one of the main reasons her family chose their current home was because of the spacious backyard, perfect for their children’s playhouse. “We loved that we could move this playhouse here,” she explained. The playhouse, which was approved by both city officials and the homeowners’ association, has become a favorite spot for her kids to play. Yet, their neighbors, Tom and Janet Smith, have filed a lawsuit claiming that the lively activities of the Johnson children are ruining their peaceful lifestyle.

“Visibility issues for their pets?” you might wonder. It seems that the Smiths are particularly concerned that their dogs are unable to see enough of the Johnsons’ yard. According to an HOA inspector, the only visibility issue noted was from the Smiths’ bedroom window to the Johnsons’ living room. The inspector suggested removing a porch roof from the playhouse to comply with regulations, which the Johnsons did, thinking the matter was settled.

However, things escalated. The Smiths began blasting loud, explicit rap music whenever the Johnson kids were playing outside, apparently in an attempt to drown out the sounds of playtime. They argue that the noise level is too much because the Johnson children are home-schooled and, unlike other kids, are outside during the day when most children are in school — thus disrupting their much-desired silence.

Is this really happening? If the Smiths are home all day to hear the noise, doesn’t that mean Kelly Johnson has to deal with their complaints during hours when most people are at work and kids are simply enjoying the sunshine? It raises the question: Do the Smiths also sue other families when school is out for summer?

This situation highlights a growing intolerance toward the natural joys of childhood. Living in a close-knit neighborhood means some noise is inevitable, whether it’s laughter, lawnmowers, or the occasional barking dog. Why should a few kids playing outside cause such an uproar? As long as they’re not throwing a raucous party at midnight, what’s the big deal?

There’s no evidence suggesting that the Johnson kids were noisy during late hours, making it hard to understand the basis of this lawsuit. It’s unreasonable to expect total silence in a family-friendly neighborhood. Unless you live in the middle of nowhere, you’re bound to hear some noise — that’s just part of suburban life.

Of course, there are instances where noise can cross the line into unacceptable territory. I once had neighbors setting off fireworks that made our dog tremble in fear. But the laughter of children? That’s something to cherish, not silence. Let’s hope this frivolous lawsuit gets tossed aside, allowing the Johnsons to enjoy their backyard just like any other kids should.

If you’re curious about home insemination, check out this helpful resource on pregnancy from NICHD. And if you’re looking for fertility solutions, Make a Mom has some great options. For more insights, head over to This Blog for the latest on family and home insemination topics.

Summary: A Texas couple is suing their neighbors over noise from their home-schooled children playing outside. The Johnson family, who enjoy their backyard playhouse, faces complaints from the Smiths, who claim the noise disrupts their peaceful life. This tension raises questions about the tolerance for children’s laughter in suburban neighborhoods.