Sound-blocking Devices

Overview

Using earplugs or headphones can increase focus and comfort. Reducing sensory input can support greater Attention for all learners and can help learners with sensory sensitivity not become overwhelmed.

Use It in the Classroom

When students are overstimulated by sound or have high sensory avoidance, sound-blocking devices can support their Sensory Integration for learning in a classroom. Teachers can teach Self-regulation skills and strategies to students so that, over time, they can implement them independently when necessary.

Design It into Your Product

Videos are chosen as examples of strategies in action. These choices are not endorsements of the products or evidence of use of research to develop the feature.

Learn how headphones designed for specific levels of sound blocking can support learners with high sensory sensitivities. This example, Califone earmuffs, has over-ear earcups and a noise reduction rating of 27 decibels, which blocks excess background noise while still allowing learners to hear when someone is speaking to them.

Noise reduction headphones or earmuffs lower the overall decibel rate to limit background noise and distractions, which supports increased Attention and focus for learning.

View References

Resources

Below are additional examples, research, and professional development. These resources are possible representations of this strategy, not endorsements.

Calming Strategies

10 sensory suggestions, including noise-reducing headphones

Noise-cancelling Headphones

How to use noise-cancelling headphones for increased focus and learning

Noise-reducing Headphones

Using noise-reducing headphones for those who are sensitive to sound

Self-Regulation

Subtopic that explores children's developing ability to regulate their behavior on Digital Promise's Research Map

Sensory Overload

Experience what sensory overload feels like