Toddlers are very curious beings, they are easily glued to the television screen, and any music is sure to get them on their tiny feet dancing. The only problem is that they are tireless; they can keep at it for hours without showing signs of slowing down. In situations like this, a headphone is their and your friend, as they can continue grooving while you enjoy your peace and quiet. The question then becomes, is it safe for toddlers to wear headphones? If yes, what is considered too loud or can be regarded as overexposure, we would be discussing all that below.
While headphones might sound like the answer to all your problems, it does have risks. Misuse could cause your child some hearing problems, which is why it is important to consider the following when shopping for your toddler’s headphones.
Considerations when choosing Toddlers Headphones
The following are some of the factors you need to get behind before you make that choice of headphone for your toddler and for other ideas and options check out this list of children’s earbuds.
Design
This talks about the appearance of the device and the overall aesthetic appeal. Younger children tend to prefer brighter colours, with blue or pink being excellent options. Asides from how it looks, it is important that the device balance looks with functionality and ease of use. The device should have large, responsive buttons with little to no removable parts or plastic coverings that could pose a choking hazard.
Wired or Wireless
While either option would provide great sound quality, the wireless option is preferred to the wired because it allows for a freer movement, and a wire could cause your child to trip and fall. And with children always putting things in their mouth, one less thing in their mouth is always progress. But if the headphone must be wired, it is best that the wire is made from a durable, safe material that is tangle-resistant and can survive all forms of harsh treatments.
Earcup size
We have had many people wonder what it matters to get child-friendly headphones; they wonder how it could possibly differ from the regular headphones they as adults are used to. Well, it does differ, and one significant difference is the ear cup size. The ear cup is the part that goes over the ear, and it is important that it is just the right size, or there would be no immersion as all that cool sound would be lost to the environment.
Volume limiting
This helps the parent or guardian control the volume output of the headphone. With this feature, you are assured that it would always be limited to your preset volume regardless of what your child listens to. The most common volume limiter preset is 85dB.
Comfort
Do not be taken away in your bid to find a headphone that looks good and is safe to use; you should also prioritise your child’s comfort. It is best that you choose a brand that has plush, comfortable ear cups and an adjustable headband.
Cost
As with everything else that is on sale, it is important that you get the most value for your money spent. While it is often true that the costlier option would have more features, the cheaper or more affordable option might offer something the same or more for a lesser price.
How Loud is Too Loud For Your Toddler?
Music or sound generally being played at around 70dB is considered safe, and any sound above 85dB can lead to hearing impairment in children and adults. dB stands for decibel, and it is the intensity of sound energy in a confined space.
Are Headphones Safe For Toddlers?
Headphones can be safe for toddlers only when certain conditions are met. First of which would be volume limiters that can limit the sound output of the headphones to a safe level, below 85dB. Another way to ensure headphone safety for kids is buying them wireless headphones so they would not stick them in their mouths or fall over when using the headphones.
Lastly would be parental guidance; while the headphones come with features that make it easy for your child to have fun listening to songs, watching movies or playing games, it is also important that you keep an eye on them when using the headphones.