Any time you’re buying toys for your children or for other kids, take note that toy noises may be harmful to a child’s ears. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) urges parents to test out any toys that make sounds — inspecting for noise dangers just as you would for small pieces that can be easily swallowed — and not to buy a toy if it sounds too loud.
Studies have shown that some toys, such as those with sirens or horns, can emit noises at a level of 90 decibels (dB) or higher, exposing children’s ears to levels of noise equivalent to those produced by a lawnmower. Other toys that may pose a danger to a child’s hearing include squeaky rubber toys, cap guns, walkie-talkies, musical instruments, and toys with cranks.
The danger of noisy toys becomes even greater when they’re held directly to the ears, as children often do. This action can expose the ear to as much as 120 dB of sound, equivalent to the noise of a jet airplane taking off. Noise at this level is painful and can result in permanent hearing loss for people of any age.
