Does Your Child Use Headphones or Earbuds? These Four Tips Can Help Keep Young Ears Safe

In today’s digital world, headphones and earbuds are as common in a child’s backpack as lunchboxes and water bottles. Whether it’s for online learning, gaming, or listening to music, kids are spending more time than ever with audio devices plugged into their ears. But while these tools offer convenience and entertainment, they also pose a growing risk to children’s hearing health.

According to a recent article in The Globe and Mail, experts are increasingly concerned about the impact of high-volume headphone use on young ears. Children often crank up the volume to drown out background noise, unknowingly exposing themselves to levels that can cause permanent hearing damage.

At Soundwave Hearing Care, our children’s audiologists in Calgary are seeing more young patients with early signs of hearing loss and auditory processing issues. The good news? With a few simple changes, and regular audiologist appointments in Calgary, parents can help protect their children’s hearing and ensure they’re set up for lifelong auditory health.

1. Keep Volume Low and Listening Time Short

Unlike adults, children’s ears are still developing and are more vulnerable to damage from loud sounds. Experts recommend the 60/60 rule for adults, but this differs for children. It is suggested that the volume be kept below 50% of the device’s maximum and limiting headphone use to no more than one hour per day.

2. Choose Over-ear Headphones over Earbuds

While earbuds are compact and trendy, they deliver sound directly into the ear canal, increasing the risk of hearing damage. Over-ear headphones, especially those with volume-limiting features, are a safer alternative. They also tend to block out ambient noise more effectively, reducing the temptation to turn up the volume.

3. Teach Safe Listening Habits Early

Children’s ears are more sensitive than adults’, and prolonged exposure to loud sounds can have lasting effects on their development. Teaching kids to recognize when something sounds “too loud” and encouraging regular breaks from headphone use can go a long way. Soundwave Hearing Care recommends the 50/50 rule: listen at 50% volume for no more than 50 minutes at a time. Consider using headphones with built-in volume limiters to ensure safe listening levels.

4. Schedule Regular Hearing Tests

Even if your child doesn’t show obvious signs of hearing loss, regular hearing tests are essential. Symptoms like delayed speech, difficulty following instructions, or constantly turning up the TV volume may indicate a problem. A professional evaluation with a children’s audiologist in Calgary can catch issues early and provide guidance on protective strategies.

At Soundwave Hearing Care, we offer services in pediatric audiology and offer comprehensive hearing assessments tailored to children’s needs. Our team is dedicated to helping Alberta families safeguard their children’s hearing through education, prevention, and expert care.

Book an Appointment in Calgary Today

If your child uses headphones or earbuds regularly, now is the time to take action. Schedule an audiologist appointment in Calgary with Soundwave Hearing Care and ensure your child’s hearing is on the right track. Early intervention can make all the difference in your child’s ability to learn, communicate, and thrive.

Book your child’s hearing test today!