How loud are soccer games for kids?

Soccer games in open-air stadiums can reach noise levels of 90-100 dB, which can be harmful to children's hearing if they are exposed for prolonged periods.

What is the best hearing protection for kids at basketball games?

Over-the-ear earmuffs with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22-27 dB are the best option for children attending basketball games, as they offer both comfort and effective noise protection.

Can kids use earplugs at baseball games?

Earplugs are not recommended for young children due to safety concerns, as they may pose a choking hazard. Instead, earmuffs are a safer and more comfortable option.

Why do kids need hearing protection at sports events?

Children's ears are more sensitive to loud noises than adults, making them more susceptible to noise-induced hearing loss. It's essential to protect their hearing during sports events, especially when noise levels exceed 85 dB.

Sports Events with Kids: Noise Protection for Soccer, Basketball & Baseball

The ultimate guide for parents attending soccer, basketball, and baseball games with their kids. Learn how to protect your children’s hearing from loud noises during these exciting events.

Why Sports Events Can Be Hazardous to Kids' Hearing

Sports venues, whether it’s a soccer match, basketball game, or baseball event, feature intense noise levels that can be harmful to children’s hearing. Prolonged exposure to noise levels above 85 dB can cause permanent hearing damage.

Many sports events, especially those with large crowds and exciting moments, reach or exceed this threshold, making ear protection essential.

Key Risks:

Soccer Matches: Noise from cheering crowds, vuvuzelas, and stadium announcers can be intense.
Basketball Games: Indoor arenas amplify sound, and crowd reactions during key moments like slam dunks and buzzer-beaters add to the noise.
Baseball Games: While slightly quieter, crowd cheers and stadium announcements still reach dangerous levels for kids.

Children’s ears are more vulnerable to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), especially due to their developing auditory systems. Even short bursts of intense noise can cause temporary or permanent damage. (Hearing Health Foundation)

Understanding Noise Levels at Different Sports Events

Soccer Matches

Open-air stadiums with large crowds and noise-making devices like vuvuzelas can lead to high noise exposure for young ears. It's important to take the necessary precautions.

Basketball Games

Indoor arenas amplify sound, with noise levels reaching up to 115 dB during critical moments. Children are especially vulnerable in these environments.

Baseball Games

Although baseball games are generally quieter compared to soccer or basketball events, they still pose a risk. Crowd reactions, stadium announcements, and the occasional cheering can cause noise levels to exceed 85 dB, which is dangerous for young ears.

Recommended Hearing Protection for Children

When it comes to choosing the best hearing protection for kids at sporting events, you want to ensure that your child is comfortable while still receiving effective noise protection.

Earmuffs

Over-the-ear earmuffs are the best option for children, offering both comfort and a high level of noise protection.
Look for earmuffs with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 22-27 dB. These earmuffs will help reduce exposure to harmful sounds at sports events.

Earplugs

Not recommended for children under 7 due to safety concerns.
For older kids, foam earplugs with an NRR of 30 dB can be a suitable option, but only if your child is comfortable using them.

Noise-Canceling Headphones

For sensory-sensitive children, noise-canceling headphones are another great option, as they block out a lot of external noise while still being comfortable for extended wear.

Checklist — Sports Event Essential Packing List for Parents

Kids earmuffs (age-appropriate; fit checked at home)
Route screenshot with meet-up point marked
Refillable water bottles + small cash for vendors
Mess-proof snacks + compact picnic mat
Stroller rain/sun cover or baby carrier for dense sections
Light layer (cardigan/ear-friendly beanie) for shade or breeze
Wipes + spare outfit in a zip bag + small trash bag
ID wristband with parent phone number; same-day child photo on your phone

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Experience

Arrive Early: Familiarize yourself with the layout of the venue and find quieter zones. Arriving early gives you time to check the seating arrangements and test the fit of your child's earmuffs.
Use Noise Monitoring Apps: Apps like NIOSH SLM help you monitor the ambient noise level, so you can be aware of any sudden spikes.
Take Regular Breaks: Step away from the loudest areas periodically to give your child’s ears a rest.
Educate Your Children: Help your child understand the importance of wearing earmuffs and make it part of their routine at sporting events.

Final Thoughts

Attending sports events with kids can be exciting, but noise protection should be a priority. By understanding the potential risks, selecting the right hearing protection, and preparing for the day, you can ensure your child enjoys the event without compromising their hearing. Protecting their hearing now can help preserve it for the future.