Technology has changed pretty much everything about our lives and influences even how our babies play. Toddlers are now using phones to either listen to their favorite music or to play games. If you find yourself constantly irritated by the noise, consider purchasing a pair of nice headphones for your child.
Are you worried about whether or not headphones are safe for your toddler? You may be curious to know about what you need to consider when buying headphones for my baby. This article will discuss the benefits and risks of using headphones as well as the factors to consider when purchasing.
The Benefits Of Toddlers Wearing Headphones
Headphones will certainly keep your baby calm and entertain him or her. When on a long trip, parents can use headphones to prevent toddlers from getting restless. The headphones will ease their boredom since they keep them occupied with their devices, but are other advantages of using them.
They Can Show Respect To Other People
The headphones allow your kids to either watch movies or play games without disturbing you as well as those around you. However, experts advise that you keep the sound levels between 60-85 decibels (dBs) only to lower ear damage.
They Protect Babies From Airplane Noise
According to Playground Dad, headphones will ease plane noise when departing. So, they’ll protect your toddler’s ears when traveling by air.
Headphones Or Earphones?
You’re better off buying your toddler headphones over earphones. Here's why:
- Headphones have the ability to cancel noise which can help your baby’s ears. You’re on the streets sometimes and the constant honking and loud noises can affect your baby’s ears. Headphones will protect them from these noises.
- They’re better than in-ear audio pieces since these have a direct impact on the eardrum.
- There are headphones particularly designed for babies and they come with inbuilt volume control tech, unlike earphones. Besides, according to Parenting First Cry, earphones harbor a lot of germs.
Do Headphones Pose Any Risk To Your Child?
No. Headphones are safe for babies. However, The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a maximum volume level of 85 decibels of 8 hours a day. So, anything above that can be damaging to your baby since her ears haven’t yet fully developed.
Factors To Consider When Purchasing Headphones For Toddlers
So, what do you need to put into consideration when buying headphones for your toddler? Here's a good guide:
Make Sure They Are Volume Limiting
These are a must-have for parents. They have their maximum volume which is normally set at 85 dB. With these, rest assured that your baby will be listening to sounds that do not exceed the recommended volume levels.
Ear Cup Size
For toddlers and babies, make sure to keep off earbuds or any listening devices that have to be put inside the ear canal. Always buy over-ear or on-ear headphones, to prevent any damage to their ears. Whatever you buy, ensure that the ear cups fit your baby’s ears. This is to prevent them from falling or sliding every time they are worn. Also, get those that have soft ear cups, probably made from plush leather, so that they offer your little champ enough protection and cushion.
Wiring
The best headphones for your baby are the wireless ones. This is especially safe for babies who love to chew on everything with their new teeth and put everything in their mouths. Besides, babies are active, making wired headphones risky since they can tangle. If you buy wired headphones instead, make sure that the wire is long-lasting and manufactured from safe material. According to Headphonesty, an audio cable coated in nylon is tangle-resistant and can withstand rough treatment.
Comfort
Your little one’s headphones need to also have an adjustable headband. This is crucial to ensure that they fit on his head comfortably. If adjustable, they can grow when your baby does.
Appearance
Even though there are tons of attractive styles for both girls and boys to choose from, make sure that you get your baby what they like. Babies’ headphones will mostly come in loud and bright colors. There are a lot of different themes to choose from ranging from pirates, princesses, and animal themes among others. Even though they’re intended to be placed over your baby’s head, others are manufactured with Velcro, making them easy to wrap around the head like a bandana.
Cost
Of course, the cost is a factor that you must keep in mind when purchasing headphones. Make sure that they’re within your budget. Your toddler has a lot of room to grow, so keep in mind that a pair of headphones (whether cheap or expensive) will not fit forever.
The Take Away
Your baby can wear headphones, as long as the pair meets the proper features that will offer them enough protection. Despite how safe the headphones may be, you need to supervise your babies to make sure that they are using the headphones properly. Also, remember to set a limit for your baby's listening time. 85 dB is only okay if your baby listens for no more than 8 hours. Alternatively, your little one can take breaks in between sessions.
Sources: WHO, Headphonesty, Parenting Firstcry, Playground Dad