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Headphones/sound sensitivity

A MyAutismTeam Member asked a question 💭
Fort Lee, NJ

My 6 year old with ASD has some sound sensitivity. He particularly has trouble in restaurants. He has headphones but he said they don’t work well. Does anyone have suggestions for headphones we could try? Or anything else we should be asking his OT to try or that we should try ourselves to help him with this?

April 6
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A MyAutismTeam Member

For my son I tried ear plugs and headphones, and headphones worked better (not all the time, he didn’t like things on his head) My son went thru this when he was younger and it wasn’t every restaurant and I realized it was also the lighting, if it was too crowded and loud that would bother him, and sometimes if it was too dark or even to bright, I had to realize he had major sensory issues at that time I hadn’t realized the sensory issue, I have since then. We just had to avoid going to certain places

April 15
A MyAutismTeam Member

https://www.pediatricconstellations.com/best-no...

Top Noise-Cancelling Headphones for Autism
Best Overall for Comfort & ANC: Bose QuietComfort 45/Ultra. These are often cited for having soft ear cushions, being lightweight, and offering superior noise reduction, making them ideal for sensory overload.
Best for Advanced Noise Reduction: Sony WH-1000XM5. Known for top-tier technology that effectively reduces background noise, providing a calmer environment.
Best Budget-Friendly Option: Anker Soundcore Space One or Q30. These offer strong, reliable noise cancellation at a lower price point, with long battery life (up to 40-60 hours).
Best for Kids: Puro Sound Labs BT2200 or Peltor Kids Earmuffs (passive protection).
Best Earbuds: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II and Anker Soundcore Space A40.

Key Features to Consider
Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): Essential for reducing ambient, low-frequency noises like traffic or fans.
Comfort/Weight: Crucial for avoiding physical discomfort during extended use.
Transparency Mode: Allows the user to hear surroundings without removing headphones.
Battery Life: High-capacity batteries (20+ hours) ensure consistent protection.

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Autism in 2025
Best Noise Cancelling Headphones for Autism in 2025
https://www.pediatricconstellations.com/best-noise-cancelling-headphones-for-autism-in-2024
April 6
MyAutismTeam

What headphones or strategies can help with sound sensitivity in restaurants for a 6-year-old with autism?

Sound sensitivity is really common in autism, and restaurants can be especially overwhelming with all the background noise. Since your son's current headphones aren't working well, it might be worth exploring Show Full Answer

What headphones or strategies can help with sound sensitivity in restaurants for a 6-year-old with autism?

Sound sensitivity is really common in autism, and restaurants can be especially overwhelming with all the background noise. Since your son's current headphones aren't working well, it might be worth exploring noise-canceling headphones specifically designed for kids with sensory sensitivities, or trying ear defenders/ear muffs which some children find more comfortable.

Working with an occupational therapist trained in sensory processing can make a huge difference. They can:
- Teach calming techniques for when your son feels overwhelmed by sounds
- Create a "sensory diet" with activities that help prevent sensory overload
- Provide hands-on demonstrations of tools and strategies you can use at home and in public

In the meantime, you might also consider:
- Visiting restaurants during quieter times
- Choosing restaurants with lower noise levels
- Taking breaks outside if he needs to decompress
- Letting him help pick restaurants where he feels more comfortable

Many parents find that combining the right equipment with strategies from an OT gives their child the best support for managing sound sensitivity in different environments.

April 6

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