Guide
Ear protection for kids: fireworks, races and loud places
Children cannot judge noise for themselves, so the adults with them do. Here is what the pediatric and federal sources say.
Why kids need protection first
NIDCD asks adults to protect the ears of children too young to do it themselves. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises earmuffs for young children at concerts, sports events and fireworks, and says sound above 120 dB can damage hearing at once. CDC's Listen Up page puts fireworks at 140 to 160 dB.
CDC's page on causes adds that a single loud blast close to the ear can be enough. A firecracker near a stroller is exactly that case.
Earmuffs, not earplugs, for small children
The AAP's holiday tips prefer earmuffs to earplugs for young children, because small plugs are a choking hazard. Muffs also go on and off without fuss and stay visible, so you can see they are still on.
Loud places and sensory needs
The AAP's page on how noise affects children suggests earmuffs for kids with autism, ADHD or sensory processing differences in loud places. Our 032 kids earmuffs are passive and rated NRR 25. They do not treat anything. They turn the volume of a gym, a fair or a fireworks show down.
Getting the fit right
Slide the band to its smallest setting, put it on, then open it until both cups cover the whole ear with no part folded. Hair, a hood or a hat strap under a cushion breaks the seal. Let the child wear the muffs at home for a few minutes before the loud day, so they are not new at the gate.
Kids and youth earmuffs in our range
NRR25dBfrom $12.99
NRR23dBfrom $38.99
Every model named above belongs to the PROHEAR lineup.
Kids guide: questions
At what age can your child wear PROHEAR 032 kids earmuffs?
They are made for children whose heads fit the small cups and band, from toddlers to preteens. Check that both ears sit fully inside the cups with the band snug but not tight.