Children are exposed to loud noises more often than we realize—whether it’s at concerts, sporting events, fireworks shows, or even everyday environments like school cafeterias and playgrounds. Hearing damage from excessive noise is permanent, but it is also preventable.
Young ears are especially vulnerable, so it’s important to use proper hearing protection when noise levels exceed safe limits.
Why Protect Your Child’s Hearing?
Hearing damage occurs gradually, and once it happens, it cannot be reversed. Children’s ears are more sensitive than adults’, meaning loud sounds can cause harm faster and at lower volumes.
- 85 dB is the maximum safe noise level (equivalent to heavy traffic).
- Above 85 dB, hearing damage begins—the louder the sound, the less time it takes.
- 100 dB (concerts, stadiums, arcades) – Safe for only 15 minutes
- 115 dB (fireworks, sirens, chainsaws) – Immediate risk of damage
What to Look for in Hearing Protection
1. Style: Earmuffs vs. Earplugs
There are two main types of hearing protection for children:
✔ Earmuffs – Cover the entire ear, easy to put on and take off. Ideal for babies, toddlers, and kids who dislike earplugs.
✔ Earplugs – Small, portable, and effective if worn correctly. Best for older kids and teens who can insert them properly.
For infants and toddlers, earmuffs are recommended because earplugs pose a choking hazard. Some older children and adults may also prefer earmuffs if they find earplugs uncomfortable.
2. Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)
Hearing protection is measured in decibels (dB) and labeled with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR)—the number of decibels reduced when worn correctly.
- Typical hearing protection lowers sound by 20-30 dB.
- A higher NRR (e.g., 30 dB) provides stronger protection.
- If too much noise reduction feels isolating, opt for a lower NRR (e.g., 20 dB).
Best Hearing Protection Options for Kids
Earmuffs (Best for Babies & Young Kids)
✔ Easy to wear
✔ No choking hazard
✔ Adjustable as kids grow
Popular Choices:
- Baby Banz Infant Earmuffs (NRR 31 dB) – Great for babies & toddlers
- 3M Peltor Kids Earmuffs (NRR 22 dB) – Lightweight & adjustable
- Dr. Meter Earmuffs – Budget-friendly alternatives
Earplugs (Best for Older Kids & Teens)
✔ Compact & portable
✔ Higher noise reduction
✔ Available in foam or silicone
Popular Choices:
- Mack’s Moldable Silicone Putty Earplugs (NRR 22 dB) – Waterproof, great for swimming
- Mack’s Slim Fit Foam Earplugs (NRR 29 dB) – Designed for smaller ear canals
How to Use Foam Earplugs Correctly
- Roll the earplug into a tight cylinder with clean hands.
- Pull back the ear slightly.
- Insert the rolled earplug with a gentle turning motion.
- Hold in place for 30 seconds until it expands.
The plug should not stick out far—it’s designed to fit snugly inside the ear canal. (Check out PK Safety for photos on proper insertion.)
Helping Young Children Adjust to Earmuffs
Getting kids (especially toddlers) to wear earmuffs can be challenging. Here are some tips from ADCO Hearing:
✔ Start Early – Introduce earmuffs when they’re too young to protest.
✔ Avoid Making It a Game – If they get in the habit of pulling them off for fun, they’ll keep doing it.
✔ Be Patient – It takes time to adjust. Start with short sessions and gradually increase wear time.
✔ Let Them Choose – Picking their favorite color or pattern can make earmuffs more exciting.
Common Misconceptions About Hearing Protection
🚫 Why Can’t I Use Cotton Balls, Tissue, or Hats?
- Cotton balls only reduce noise by 7 dB—not enough for loud environments.
- Hats or hoodies provide minimal protection compared to proper earmuffs or earplugs.
🚫 Are Noise-Canceling Headphones Good Enough?
- Noise-canceling is NOT the same as noise reduction.
- Active noise-canceling works best for steady background sounds (like an airplane engine) but does not block all frequencies like earplugs or earmuffs.
- Think of it like wearing a coat that’s not waterproof—it helps in light rain but won’t protect you in a storm.
When Should Kids Wear Hearing Protection?
Hearing protection is necessary whenever sound levels exceed 85 dB. The louder the noise, the less time it takes to cause damage.
For Kids Under 5: Extra Precautions
👂 Young children are at the highest risk for hearing damage.
- Their ear canals are smaller, making sounds louder than what adults hear.
- If your child complains that something is too loud, take it seriously—it really is louder for them.
👶 If your child is sensitive to loud sounds, hearing protection can make overwhelming environments more tolerable.
Final Thoughts: Make Hearing Protection a Habit
Hearing protection should be as common as sunscreen and seatbelts. A single loud event can cause permanent damage, so taking simple precautions is well worth it.
Quick Tips to Remember:
- If you have to raise your voice to be heard, it’s time for hearing protection.
- Earmuffs are best for babies & young children.
- Earplugs are great for older kids & teens.
- Proper fit matters—make sure earplugs are inserted correctly.
- Noise-canceling headphones ≠ hearing protection.
By checking sound levels, choosing the right protection, and encouraging good habits, you can prevent lifelong hearing damage and make loud environments safer for kids of all ages.