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Hi there! 👋

Headphones are fun, but germs and very loud sounds can make your ears unhappy. Here are easy steps to keep your ears safe — ask a grown-up to help.

  1. Use your own headphones.
    Don’t share earbuds with friends. Sharing can pass germs that make your ears itchy or sore.
  2. Keep them clean.
    Ask an adult to wipe the ear pads or earbuds with a clean cloth. If you have soft covers, the adult can wash or replace them.
  3. Turn the volume down.
    Make it like a talking voice, not like shouting. A good rule is the 60/60 rule: listen at no more than about 60% volume and for no more than 60 minutes at a time.
  4. Take quiet breaks.
    Give your ears a rest — play without headphones for a while after listening.
  5. Use kid-safe headphones if you can.
    Some headphones are made for kids and stop sounds from getting too loud.
  6. Watch for signs your ears hurt.
    If your ear feels sore, you hear ringing, or sounds seem fuzzy, tell an adult right away.
  7. If your ear looks red or has a yucky discharge, see a doctor.
    That could mean an infection and needs help from a grown-up and a doctor.

Quick checklist you can remember:

  • My headphones are mine — I don’t share.
  • I ask an adult to clean them.
  • I keep the volume calm and take breaks.
  • I tell an adult if my ear hurts.

Stay safe and enjoy your music and stories!


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