Kids are enjoying music through advances in personal audio technology more than ever. But at what price? With the increasing popularity of mp3 players, millions of children are at potential risk of noise-induced hearing loss. Listening to headphones at high volumes for extended periods of time can result in lifelong hearing loss. The loss may occur painlessly and gradual, often it goes unnoticed until it is too late.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) is caused by exposure to loud sounds and usually occurs painlessly over a period of time. However, it may occur from one exposure to an extremely loud noise. Research suggests that NIHL is occurring at younger ages and with more frequency. Noise from personal headphones, jet skis, concerts, lawn equipment, power tools, firecrackers, household appliances, toys and musical instruments all have the potential to cause hearing loss. NIHL can be prevented. Teach your children to know when loud is too loud.

It's too loud if...
You must raise your voice to be heard.
You have difficulty understanding someone who's an arm's length away.
You have pain, ringing or buzzing in your ears after exposure to loud sounds.
Speech sounds muffled or dull after noise exposure.
Here are some simple prevention steps:
Avoid and limit periods of exposure to noise.
Buy quiet! Don't buy noisy appliances, equipment or toys.
Don't put objects in the ears such as cotton swabs.
Monitor hearing when ototoxic drugs are prescribed.

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) has been a global leader warning about the risk of hearing loss from misuse of personal audio technology.

Whether it’s an mp3 player, gaming device, cell phone, laptop, or any other device that your child uses with headphones, don’t overlook a potential health threat – the risk of hearing loss from misuse of the technology.

Here are a few ways to protect your children’s hearing and your own.

Keep the volume down. A good guide is half volume.
Limit listening time. Give your hearing "quiet breaks."
Model good listening habits for your children.