Summer brings with it a host of outdoor activities. Intoxicated by what should be glorious weather, it makes sense for families to want to go to events such as parades, music festivals and sports games.
However, it is important to remember that children's hearing is very sensitive and these noise-rich environments might be fun but aren't always healthy.
The summer festival season may be over for this year, but get ready for the onslaught of Christmas parties and new season gigs. U2 at Wembley anyone? For hip parents that don't want to deny their children exposure to these fun activities (for us, at least!), investing in good ear protection should be paramount.
Popularised by Gwyneth Paltrow, who back in 2005 used them to protect daughter Apple's ears from the booming noise of husband Chris Martin's Live 8 concert, Peltor Ear Protectors provide the protection needed.
In neon pink or lime green, the Peltor Hearing Protectors are apparently easy to wear with no protruding parts that can catch on things. Wide, liquid foam cushions ensure comfort, as does an adjustable steel headband to fit tiny heads. Plus, as they only weigh around 140 grams each, they are not too heavyweight or cumbersome.
Most of the stockists I found were based in the US. However, for the best UK-based bargain, Earplug Shop sells the ear protectors at £12.49. [Florence Buswell]