Advancements in technology have led to toys becoming louder and potentially harmful to children's hearing.
Noisy toys can have long-term consequences on children's hearing, and early protection is crucial.
Deep dives
Evolution of Sound in Toys
Toys have evolved in terms of sound production, from analog methods in the 50s to more advanced electronic chips in recent years. The invention of chip-based toys in the 70s, like Simon and Speaking Spell, revolutionized the industry by allowing for more complex sounds and interactivity. However, advancements in technology have also led to toys becoming louder and potentially harmful to children's hearing. Research shows that many toys exceed the recommended sound limit, with some reaching volumes comparable to a chainsaw or rock concert. Parents are advised to be cautious and protect their children's ears from overly loud toys.
The Impact of Noisy Toys
Noisy toys can have long-term consequences on children's hearing, as damage to the inner ear's hair cells is permanent. As children's ears are equally sensitive to loud sounds as adults, early protection is crucial. Children are particularly prone to prolonged exposure to loud noise from toys as they often hold them close to their ears. Laboratory tests have revealed that several popular toys violate the recommended sound limit of 85 decibels, sometimes reaching volumes as high as 107 decibels (equivalent to a chainsaw). It is essential for parents to be aware of the potential risks and take measures to protect their children's hearing.
Balancing Tech and Noise in Toys
The increasing prevalence of loud and technologically advanced toys raises concerns about the impact on children's imaginative play and the risk of excessive noise exposure. While electronic toys can be engaging and educational, fostering imaginative play is equally important for child development. Encouraging children to use their own voices and imagination during playtime can be more beneficial than relying solely on noisy toys. It is recommended to limit exposure to loud toys, either by placing tape or glue over the speaker or teaching children about the importance of protecting their ears from loud noise. Balancing the benefits of technology with the need for quieter play experiences can enhance children's overall development.
From See ‘n Say to Speak & Spell, and beyond, toys provide the soundtrack of our childhoods. Huge advancements in computer technology in recent decades mean that today’s toys can make a wider variety of sounds than ever before. In this episode, “The Toy Guy” Chris Byrne takes us on a nostalgic look back at the recent history of recorded sound in toys; then, with Dr. Hamid Djalilian, we consider what all that technological advancement means for young ears in the 21st century.
