Did you know you could be damaging your hearing with your music player? Some MP3 players can reach sound levels of up to 120 decibels (dB), which is like standing 100 feet behind the engine of a jet plane as it's taking off. Though most products max out at about 103 dB, this is still too high. According to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), more than a minute of exposure to 110 dB (ex. a chain saw) risks permanent hearing loss, as can 15 minutes at 100 db and prolonged exposure at or above 85 dB.
As a general rule, if you can’t hear someone talking to you in the same room or you have the volume turned up more than ¾ of the way, your player is too loud. For kids, you’ll want to limit the volume in some way. For iPods, you can lower the maximum volume with the “volume limit” feature (found under settings). Otherwise look for a pair of headphones with a separate volume control or ones with a built-in sound limiter.
Ultimate Ears Loud Enough Volume Limiting Earphones ($40) For 6 and up, these in-ear headphones deliver good sound while knocking 20dB off any sound source.
Kidz Gear Headphones ($20) These traditional-style headphones with a built-in volume controller are designed to fit 2 plus comfortably and deliver good sound. 
