Protect Your Child’s Hearing

Protect Your Child’s Hearing

You can help protect your child's hearing by lowering the volume, limiting time around loud sounds, and using hearing protection when needed. Learn more here.
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Loud Sounds Can Harm Hearing

Loud sounds can damage hearing over time. The louder the sound and the longer you hear it, the greater the risk.

How Loud Is Too Loud?

Sound is measured in decibels (dB). A higher dB number means a louder sound. Sounds louder than 85db can cause permanent hearing loss.

Common Sound Levels

  • Normal conversation: 60 to 70 dB
  • Lawnmower: 80 to 100 dB
  • Motorcycle or dirt bike: 80 to 110 dB
  • Music through headphones at high volume: 94 to 110dB
  • Sporting events and concert: 94 to 110 dB
  • Emergency vehicle sirens: 110 to 129 dB
  • Fireworks: 140 to 160 dB

Common Sources of Loud Noise

Children may be exposed to loud sounds from:

  • Noisy toys
  • Band or music class
  • Farm equipment
  • Shop classes
  • Concerts
  • Firecrackers and fireworks
  • Personal music players (air pods) and headphones
  • Sporting events
  • Motorcycles and dirt bikes
  • Movie theaters
  • Arcades
  • Firearms
  • Power tools

How Can I Protect My Child’s Hearing?

You can help protect your child's hearing by:

  • Using hearing protection, such as earplugs or earmuffs, in noisy places.
  • Turning down the volume on phones, tablets, and music players.
  • Moving away from loud sounds when possible.
  • Taking breaks from noisy environments.
  • Getting your child's hearing checked as recommended.
  • Learning about hearing screenings offered through your child's healthcare provider or school.

When Should My Child Wear Hearing Protection?

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Use hearing protection when your child is around loud sounds, such as:

  • Concerts
  • Sporting events
  • Fireworks displays
  • Car races
  • Using power tools
  • Riding motorcycles or dirt bikes

Hearing protection comes in different sizes to help provide a comfortable fit. An audiologist can help if you need custom earplugs.

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Should My Child Wear Hearing Protection All the Time?

No. Wearing earmuffs or ear defenders all the time is usually not recommended. Using hearing protection too often may make everyday sounds seem louder or more bothersome. Hearing protection can be helpful during very noisy situations or when a child feels overwhelmed by sound. However, children also need opportunities to hear and adjust to normal everyday sounds.

If you have questions about your child's hearing, sound sensitivity, or sensory needs, talk with:

  • An audiologist (hearing specialist).
  • An occupational therapist.

You can learn more or schedule a visit to Children’s Wisconsin Audiology here.

Teach-Back Questions

  1. What are some common sounds that can be loud enough to damage hearing?
  2. When should your child wear hearing protection?
  3. What are 2 ways you can help protect your child's hearing every day?

Resources you would like to include with this teaching sheet:

ALERT

Call your child’s provider, nurse, or clinic if you have any questions or concerns or if your child has special health care needs that were not covered by this information.

Draft Number: 2266Revision Date: September 18, 2026

This content was created to help you care for your child and/or family member. It does not take the place of medical care. Talk with your healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.