There’s something about seeing ear buds in young ears that makes me nervous - not just because of concerns about damage to the ear canal, but also because there’s no way of telling how high the volume is turned. MyPhones headphones from Griffin Technology are set to a maximum of 85 decibels - so even though you can’t always control what your kids are listening to, at least you know there won’t be long-term damage to their hearing.
According to the National Institute on Deafness and other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), in order to protect noise induced hearing loss (NIHL), sound should be kept at or below 85 decibels. Additionally, adults should ensure they protect the ears of children too young to understand the hazards of noise. Using noise-limiting headphones such as MyPhones, and ensuring kids take a break from listening every hour or so, will help to protect young ears from long-term hearing damage.
"Children are as interested in technology as adults these days," says Paul Griffin, founder and CEO of Griffin Technology Inc. "MyPhones are the first headphones that kids can really call their own. And with MyPhones' 85 decibel volume limit, parents can rest easy, knowing that their kids' hearing is not being compromised."
Designed for kids aged 3 to 12, MyPhones are appropriately-sized and have an adjustable band and, as they sit over the ear, there is little chance of ear canal damage. The headphones have a flexible design and the ear cushions are made from soft rubber for added comfort. They have a 1/8" headphone plug and are suitable for most MP3 players, computers and gaming consoles.
The shell caps are removable and come in three interchangeable design inserts. Kids can even customize their headphones by drawing their own inserts or download designs from the MyPhones website. The carry-case can also be customized and is durable and big enough to carry both the headphones and an MP3 player.
Priced at USD $39.99, MyPhones headphones will be available in early October from Griffin Technology.