People of all ages love listening to music and experiencing it in person. Children can enjoy concerts and see their favorite artists on stage with their friends. However, there are some essential things to consider when preparing a child to go to a show. One of these leads us to our question: do children need ear protection at concerts?
Ear protection is strongly recommended for children at concerts because they are prone to hearing loss. Children are still developing their hearing and are more sensitive to noise than adults. Ear protection can help children enjoy concerts without feeling overwhelmed.
Ear protection is an excellent idea for children attending concerts, so parents must know what is necessary. They should consider what doctors recommend for their children, what types of ear protection are available, how to convince a child to wear ear protection, and some recommendations based on price and reviews.
What Doctors Recommend
The National Institute of Deafness and Other Communication Disorders recommends some guidelines for children. One of their most significant suggestions is to remember that hearing loss happens over time. They suggest that parents try to teach their children about the potential dangers of hearing loss and to have hearing protection available.
Even if hearing loss isn’t a concern, there are additional reasons why doctors might recommend ear protection. One of the biggest ones is that noise can be overly stimulating for a child.
Loud noise can cause some children to feel anxious and overwhelmed. When a child is overstimulated, they often struggle to regulate their emotions and express pain. Sensory overload is not a fun experience for a child or a guardian, so doctors will recommend ear protection when sensory overload is a possibility.
Doctors recommend picking the type of ear protection a specific child likes to promote consistent use.
What Types of Ear Protection are Available for Children
Luckily, many ear protection options are available for children with differing levels of noise reduction. Ear protection comes in two basic categories: earplugs and earmuffs. Within these two categories, there are many more styles and options.
Earplugs
Earplugs are the most common type of ear protection. This type of ear protection involves having something physically inside the ear canal. There are a variety of styles of earplugs that vary from basic to high-end.
You can find basic earplugs in most grocery stores, drug stores, and even hardware stores. Many stores sell foam earplugs meant to shape the user’s ear. Foam earplugs expand to fill the ear canal. Other stores offer non-foam earplugs shaped to fit an ear canal.
You might also get a unique kind of earplug: a canal plug. These are not common but are incredibly helpful for active children. They have earplugs attached to a headband that keeps the earplugs in the ear canal.
Earmuffs
Earmuffs are ear protection types with two cup-like muffs attached to a headband. They come in many different sizes and are the easiest ear protection type. Muffs are one of the most comfortable options as well.
This type of ear protection can be expensive due to its materials and size. They come in many colors and materials, so children are often drawn to them because they are fun!
How to Convince a Child to Wear Ear Protection
A parent can convince a child to wear ear protection in various ways. The best option is to explain in an age-appropriate manner why ear protection is essential. Children appreciate when they get a legitimate reason for being asked to do something.
Another reason is to allow them to choose which type of ear protection they get. Children are more likely to wear something that they choose to wear. Children also are more likely to use ear protection if their parents use it, and for the full duration of a concert.
Product Recommendations
There are a variety of ear protection options that a parent can choose for their child. Some are more cost-effective, and others are well-known for being top-of-the-line ear protection.
Best Budget Picks
Ear protection can be expensive, and children are not known for being the best at keeping track of items. Thus, it is understandable that parents would not want to buy a $30 headset for their child who might lose it, break it, or only use it once.
- 🍀Kids noise cancelling earmuffs block out noise to prevent hearing damage; It is a perfect gift for children who have sound sensitivities for monster jam/ monster trucks, sports events, hunting, airplane flights, Disneyland, concerts, movie theaters, fireworks, etc. A great gift for autism kids
- 🍀Constructed by solid ABS-shell and thickened noise-dampening foam, the ear muffs offer a NRR 25dB (SNR 29dB) rating and block out noise by a great amount, ANSI S3.19 (US) & CE EN352-1(EU) certified
- 🍀Soft PU leather padded headband reduces the pressure on your kid’s head for superior comfort while soft ear cushions ensure comfortable wearing and snug fit
- 🍀Adjustable headband and 360° rotatable ear cups with comfortable foam can be adjusted to fit different aged kids
- 🍀Dimension: 7.2 x 4.9 x 3.5 inches, Weight: 6.34oz/180G. Compact size and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around; Easily fits in a backpack or carry-on bag for convenient take-anywhere hearing protection
- DURABLE AUTISM HEADPHONES – Featuring quality ABS and steel material this kids ear defender is fully equipped to stand the test posed by children. It doesn’t get loose or break at ease. It not only saves your money but your child from injury as well.
- COMFY CHILD EAR DEFENDERS – Our ear defenders for children characterize handmade foam ear cushions to keep it comfy for your young ones. Moreover, the flexible headband does keep it tight but doesn’t stress it hard or cause pain. Peace in the real sense!
- ONE SIZE & SECURE – These one-size soundproof earmuffs are highly flexible and adjustable. They can easily expand to fit children aged 3-16 years. The adjustable ear cups can be adjusted to different lengths.
- A GIFT FOR AUTISTIC KIDS – Noise has proved a high irritant for 65% of autistic children. To keep them calm and happy our soundproof earmuffs are ideal. This noise-canceling headphones kid’s collection is an apt guard for young ones against hearing loss caused by exposure to noise.
- IMMERSIVE ACTIVITIES – Unlock the potential for immersive activities with these Multi-Function Ear Aids. Whether navigating a busy road, engaging in a lively party, or seeking focus for study or sleep, this accessory effortlessly calms fidgeting—a genuine ally for tranquility in every situation.
![CHAMPS Kids Ear Muffs Earmuff Noise Protection Reduction Headphones for Toddlers Kid Children Teen NRR 25dB Safety Hearing Ear Muff Shooting Range Hunting Season [Pink]](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/4122lHY-C7L._SL160_.jpg)
- DESIGNED FOR EAR PROTECTION:This child earmuff is specially designed to reduce noise and protect children’s ears. It has passed CE and ANSI certification to reach 25dB NNR. It can effectively eliminate harmful sounds, protect the ears, provide excellent noise reduction effects, and protect the ears from harm.
- PREMIUM & COMFORTABLE: The noise cancelling ear muffs is made of high-quality ABS and sound-absorbing sponge material, so you can use it with confidence. Ultra-soft ear cushion and padded design give your child a super comfortable wearing experience and enjoy the happy hours of long outdoor activities.
- ADJUSTABLE & PORTABLE: The Champs ear muffs for kids are equipped with an adjustable headband to meet the needs of children of different ages, which is very user-friendly. These earmuffs are foldable and come with a travel bag for easy carrying and storage. It is the first choice for children when traveling or playing.
- OCCASIONS: The earmuffs for kids adopt bright blue design, which can increase visibility and improve safety. It is very suitable for children who with sensitive ears. It is idea for watching large truck shows, sports events, concerts, fireworks, autistic children, airplanes, etc.
- SAFE & STABLE: Our baby ear muffs noise protection are packaged to provide maximum stability, safety and durability, which can better strengthen the internal structure and ensure that the child’s head is fully wrapped in a safe and comfortable state.
- Ideal for blocking noise caused Ideal for blocking noise caused by large crowds, airports, sporting events, garden and household tools, or any other troublesome noise or sound
- Perfect for kids on the autism spectrum for blocking out crowds and other triggers
- Low profile clam design keeps the muffs safe and secure on little ears and offers a stylish look. Strong high quality parts make them sturdy and robust, so much so we give them a 5 YEAR GUARANTEE!
- Lightweight and comfortable to suit little ones. Padded ear cushions offer superior comfort and a snug fit
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Richard “Corey” Harrison (Actor)
- English (Playback Language)
- English (Subtitle)
- 【Powerful Noise Reduction】 The kids noise cancelling headphones with SNR 28dB（NRR 26dB） special designed for kids ear protection. Kids ear protection ear muffs is ideal for blocking out noise caused in monster truck show, concerts, fireworks, travel, sports events, yard work, etc and provides the most reliable safety. Please Note: Noise cancelling headphones for kids can reduce noise to a safe level but not complete sound isolation.
- 【Durable & Comfort】Kids noise cancelling headphones with upholstered design will keep safety while do hearing protection. Noise cancelling headphones for kids with widely padded headband and soft ear pads make sure kids’ ear protection. The 360° rotatable cups design gives a more snug fit.
- 【Tested and Certified】Our noise cancelling ear muffs special for kid’s hearing protection, thoroughly tested and proven to reach an acoustic attenuation of up to 28 dB, which can effectively reduce noises and protect children’s hearing. Kids ear protection ear muffs for noise reduction are certified and meet ANSI S3.19-1974 and CE EN 352-1.
- 【Concentration Training】Our adjustable kids noise cancelling headphones design for children aged 3-16. It’s great for training kids’ concentration during reading, playing, study and etc.
- 【Lightweight & Carrying Bag Included】kids noise cancelling ear protection with lightweight design (weight only 0.5LB）and come with carrying bags makes it easy to carry around. Kid shooting ear protection also can be easily folded and put in backpack.
- TR90 SAFE LIGHTWEIGHT FRAME – You can hardly feel them on your face! Materials environmentally safe, with our revolutionary soft silicon and unbreakable materials with super toughness, wear resistance, can effectively prevent the child’s eyes and facial injuries.
- HD 9 -LAYER TAC POLARIZED LENSES – Polarized sunglasses have a filter that works to prevent the glare from reflecting on flat surfaces (water, snow, road pavement) which interfere with vision. Polarized sunglasses can selectively eliminate the reflection from light coming from above the water surface while normal sunglasses don’t have that function. They provide premium protection against the sun’s harmful rays, perfect glasses to protect children.
- 100% UV400 EYE PROTECTION – Our sunglasses provide 100% Anti-ultraviolet. Our design is both thoughtful and ergonomic which provides great comfort thanks to our exclusive smart technology.
- EYEWEAR ROPE – Unique style design with practical eyewear rope to prevent the loss when playing game, our sunglasses provide various color assortment for parents to choose. Both boys and girls can find their suitable sunglasses in VATTER store.
For parents on a tight budget, there are plenty of good choices under $20. Some of these choices include getting ear protection from a cheaper store like Walmart or Target. Walgreens even sells some silicon children’s earplugs for less than $5! You can even find earmuffs at secondhand stores for children if a parent is willing to sanitize them.
If all else fails, you can use earphones that I would use for listening to music to help block out noise, so the child isn’t overwhelmed. This method can replace overstimulating situations with controlled music. You can avoid paying for two different things if you already have headphones.
Best Overall Picks
My favorite brand of ear protection is called Loops. Loops are earplugs made out of comfortable silicon that comes in various colors and sizes. The best part about Loops is that they are made to help reduce noise but not completely block it out.
- NOISE REDUCTION – Loop Experience Plus are high-fidelity, noise reducing earplugs that filter more or less noise on demand, thanks to a silicone filter (Loop Mute). They have a noise reduction rating (SNR) of 18 or 23 decibels, NRR of 7 and come in 4 stylish colors.
- STYLISH COMFORT – These high-fidelity earplugs come in 4 different sizes, so you can always find the perfect fit. The iconic round shape of Loop Experience Plus sits perfectly in your ears, making it a fashionable accessory that protects your hearing. On top of that, the additional Mute filter (-5 dB) is available in 2 colors, black and white, to further personalize your earplugs.
- MULTI-PURPOSE – Loop Experience Plus are high-fidelity earplugs that preserve sound quality but avoid noise pollution. They protect your hearing during concerts, festivals or while making music. They are loved by audiophiles and extremely suitable for people who are easily triggered by noise (noise sensitivity, musicians, parents and more).
- EASY TO USE – These earplugs are easy to insert and when you wear them correctly, they don’t stick out of your ears. They come in 4 sizes (XS – L), if your ears hurt, it is best to take a smaller size. If the earplugs do not reduce sound sufficiently or fall out, it is best to try on a size larger.
- IN THE BOX – In our eco-friendly packaging, there is 1 set of Loop Experience Plus earplugs, 4 sizes of soft silicone ear tips (XS-L), 3 sizes of foam ear tips (S-L), 2 sets of Loop Mute filters and 1 handy carry case. Not only do our earplugs have a stylish metal look, they are also durable and long lasting.
You can find different models with live events, conversations, and noise reduction in mind. They have a loop on the outer end that allows the user to place them in the ear safely and easily. They cost between $25-$45, depending on the model.
Other good options include high-fidelity earplugs. High-fidelity earplugs are earplugs that reduce the volume of the noise and do not muffle it. These are perfect for concerts and other live events.
- 【Preserve High Fidelity Audio】 Hearprotek Music ear plugs do an effective job of bringing down the overall volume, blocking background noises at a comfortable level while preserving the sound clarity and sharpness. You won’t experience any muffling with these plugs as you would foam-based ones and you will be able to hear different sound frequencies and talk to people without having to worry of muffling.
- 【20db Noise Reduction】 Comes with 2 sets of 20db ear plugs in different sizes (small & standard), cutting up an impressive 20db’s of sound volume which is a pretty good amount for a concert or band rehearsal, and you can always have your spare plug in case any plugs are fallen out unfortunately or missing.
- 【Designed For Comfort】 Made of high quality silicone material that provides comfort from prolonged usage. If you have small ear canals, the small size of ear plugs are your best choice, they are designed to have an ergonomic curved body with two flange tip that follows the shape of your ear canal, which provides a snag and comfortable fit.
- 【Discrete & Portable】Low-profile design with translucent or frosted plug shells which are inconspicuous and a less noticeable appearance on stage, at the concert, at the club or in the office. Include a soft silicone detachable cord and come in a durable aluminum case with carabiner which clips easily to belts and bags to carry wherever you go, this way, there’s no need to worry about losing your plugs.
- 【Warm tips】The earplugs will not block all the noise completely, but they will preserve the quality of the music and make the volume within a safer listening level. So they’re not recommended for sleeping, hunting, shooting, motorcycling etc.
- 【High Fidelity EarPlugs】YomauiYee musician earplugs with filters reduces noise (up to 24dB,NRR) evenly to maintain the full spectrum of sound and retain high quality music. Suit for musicians, orchestra class,Concert Attendees, Musician Earplugs Festivals, Drummers, DJS，Motorcycles, Nightclub or loud bar attendees.
- 【Designed For Comfort】Our reusable earplugs adopt an ergonomic design to snugly fit your ear canal and made of soft silicone that provides comfortable wearing experience.（tips：Cleaning your ear canals, help the earplugs fit your ear canals better）,The 2-piece set of earplugs includes two sizes, the standard size fit for most people, and the small size is suitable for people with small ear canals，and the two different sizes are suitable for couples.
- 【Various Colors】 Our high fidelity ear plugs come in a variety of colors for you to choose from，such as purple，pink，rose pink，black，orange，silver，blue. Our packaging contains 2 set of earplugs，an aluminum container and a carabiner that you can hang it on your keychain and carry it around with you wherever you go. Also great as a gift.
- 【Reusable &Washable】Concert ear plugs made with hypoallergic soft silicone and easy to clean，you can count on using our earplugs time and time again.The 2 pair earplugs are waterproof , but be careful not to let the filters in the earplugs touch the water, which may affect the high fidelity of the earplugs
- 【Tips】YomauiYee earbuds contain proprietary precision filters that provide just the right amount of noise reduction while maintaining speech clarity and audio quality. However, this earplug can only achieve a slight noise reduction effect and is not recommended for use with loudly noise.
- 24dB Noise Reduction: The Noise Reduction Ear Plugs built-in removable metal acoustic filter, adopt a three-layer umbrella-shaped design to attenuate sound waves. Reduce overall volume effectively and absorb most of background noises to improve the sound clarity. Minimizing the risk of noise-induced hearing loss, tinnitus, and anxiety.
- Comfortable Fit & Durability: Our high fidelity ear plugs are made of soft liquid silicone material, they are designed with an ergonomic, curved body that fits perfectly to the shape of your ear canal without causing discomfort or irritation, making them ideal for concerts and other lengthy events.
- Multiuse Earplugs: These earplugs is their ability to attenuate harmful noise levels while maintaining the clarity of sound. The innovative design allows for a reduction in volume without compromising the overall quality of the music or sounds being experienced, which is great for musicians, concerts, guitarists, drummers, DJs, music festivals, raves, party, nightclubs, bars, construction, stadium events, noise-sensitive person, and other noisy environment.
- Stylish & Portable: Two pairs of concert earplugs comes with an colorful aluminum container and a carabiner so you can hang them on your key chain, in your backpack, or in your pocket. The container is stylish, compact, durable. You can take them with you wherever you go, you never know when a pair of protective ear plugs may come in handy.
- Satisfaction Guaranteed: These musicians earplugs can effectively reduce noise levels, they may not completely eliminate all sounds, which reduce noise to a safer volume while also providing sound clarity. Therefore, it is not recommended to use it in sleeping, hunting and shooting sports. If you have any question, please feel free to contact us.
Earmuffs are also a smart option because they are easy for children to use and harder for them to lose. The Alpine Muffy Noise Cancelling headphones are highly rated and come in various colors.
Children with ear protection at concerts are more likely to enjoy the experience than those without.
