Do External Distractions Affect The Long Term Benefits Of Meditation?

[The White Belt]

The title is self-explanatory, but I'll elaborate with my personal experience;

 

Often when I'm meditating the neighbours, I notice, are loud, or the kids I look after are very loud in the next room. I just try my best to bring my attention into my thoughts, or to my breath. 

Will these distractions hinder or help my results?