Headphones, Gaming, and Screen Time: 5 Ways to Protect Kids’ Hearing

Between online learning, music, videos, and gaming, headphones have become part of everyday life for many children. Screen time itself does not cause hearing loss, but listening to audio at high volumes for extended periods can damage hearing.

Hearing risk is influenced by three factors: how loud the sound is, how long a child listens, and how often that exposure is repeated. The louder the sound, the less time it can be heard safely. Because noise-related hearing loss is permanent and can develop gradually, healthy listening habits should begin early.

Here are five practical ways parents can help.

1. Keep the Volume at a Safe Level

Encourage children to use the lowest volume that allows them to hear comfortably. The World Health Organization recommends keeping personal devices below 60 percent of their maximum volume.

Parents can also check whether a phone, tablet, computer, or gaming system offers volume-limiting controls. Setting the limit together gives you an opportunity to explain why safer listening matters.

2. Balance Listening Time with Quiet Breaks

Volume is only part of the equation. Long periods of listening can also increase a child’s overall sound exposure.

Encourage children to take a 10-minute quiet break after every hour of gaming or headphone use. A timer can help make breaks part of the routine. The break should be spent in a relatively quiet space so the ears have time away from sound.

3. Use Speakers Whenever Possible

For online classes, videos, and some games, consider using the device’s built-in speakers or external speakers instead of headphones. This reduces the amount of sound delivered directly into the ears.

When headphones are necessary, choose a comfortable, well-fitting pair. Noise-canceling headphones can help children hear more clearly without turning up the volume to compete with conversations, traffic, or other background noise.

4. Pay Special Attention to Gaming

Gaming sessions can last for hours, and games may include loud music, sound effects, and sudden bursts of noise. These sounds can add to a child’s overall exposure, especially when delivered through a headset.

Check gaming volume regularly, encourage breaks, and use parental volume controls when available. Children should also avoid increasing the volume simply to make the game feel more exciting or immersive.

5. Watch for Signs of a Hearing Problem

Possible warning signs include:

• Ringing or buzzing in the ears 

• Muffled hearing after using headphones 

• Difficulty hearing higher-pitched sounds 

• Trouble following conversations in noisy places 

• Frequently increasing the television or device volume 

• Regularly asking people to repeat themselves 

Healthy digital habits should include healthy listening habits. A few simple changes, including lowering the volume, limiting long sessions, using speakers, and building in quiet breaks, can help children enjoy technology while protecting their hearing.

If you have concerns about your child’s hearing, Advanced Audiology Associates is here to help. Visit hearingonthecape.com to schedule an appointment.