Hearing + Ears
The sense of hearing enriches our lives and protects us, too. Think of how you feel when you hear your favorite song or listen to a bird chirping in the spring. Then imagine what would happen if you were crossing a street and didn’t hear a car coming. This lesson will provide you with activities and information to help your students understand and appreciate the sense of hearing. Our ears take sound waves to our brain to help us process the sound that we then hear. They also help to balance us so we don’t get dizzy and fall down! Our hearing is a wonderful thing that helps us to understand what is going on around us. Our ears and hearing are fascinating things that are so important to how we function each day. They are something you will want to teach your children about, especially if you are learning about the five senses or the human body. It is a way of communication, to enjoy things such as music, singing, laughter, and conversations. It also warns us of dangers, such as being able to hear sirens, horns honking, barking dogs, etc… Fun Fact: Dogs have 17 muscles they use to move their ears around to hear sounds better." How Ears Hear Sound?
Sound is a form of energy that moves through air, water and matter, in waves of pressure. While the ear recognizes sound it is the brain and central nervous system that “hears”. The ear and the brain work together. The ear changes sound pressure waves from the outside world into signals of nerve impulses which are then sent to the brain. The outer part of the ear collects sound waves. Humans can hear sound waves with frequencies between 20 and 20,000 Hz. That sound pressure is amplied through the middle portion of the ear. In simple language these sound waves cause the eardrum to vibrate. The three middle ear bones (Malleaus, Incus, Staples or easier to remember Hammer, Anvil and Stirrup) pass these vibrations on to the cochlea. The cochlea is a snail-shaped, fluid-filled structure in the inner ear. Inside the cochlea is another structure called the organ of corti. Cilia are very tiny hair cells which are located in the corti. These cilia (microscopic hair cells) bend over from the vibrations (sound waves) passing a nerve impulse to the auditory nerve. These impulses are then sent to the brain and this is how we hear sounds. Three components are needed for sound to be heard:
Why do we get dizzy when we spin around?
The brain takes in a number of signals from your body to keep it balanced. One of them is from the fluid in the inner ear. The brain can tell a lot by how the fluid in your ear is moving or tilted. The brain also uses your eyes and sense of touch to tell it about your balance and position. When you spin around too fast, fluid in the circular canals (cochlea) moves around the ear. This stimulates the hair cells. When you stop spinning the fluid still moves. Because the moving fluid is still stimulating the hair cells your brain gets a message that you are still moving and so you feel dizzy. Ears for Balance
The ear is the sense organ for hearing and balance (equilibrium). Not only does the ear act as a receiver for sound it also plays a major role in the sense of position and balance. All humans have two ears but some animals have no ears at all… like snakes! Snakes use their tongues to receive and interpret sound vibrations. Why 2 Ears?
Having two ears helps you to determine the direction of sound. Your brain is smart enough to figure out that if sound hits one ear just before the other and is slightly louder then that's the direction the sound came from. Having an ear on each side of our head also helps us to hear better. Why are Ears so Important?
The ability to hear and balance is very important to all living creatures. For humans hearing is also an important part of learning speech and language so we can communicate with each other. So, we must protect our hearing. Exposure to loud noise, whether instant or prolonged, can cause damage to these hair cells as they become brittle and don’t bounce back into shape. When this happens we get a constant hum in our ears called Tinnitus. Some cases of tinnitus are caused by too much ear wax or infection but mostly it is caused by loud music or noise. This is why we must be careful not to expose ourselves to too much loud noise as excessive noise is still the number one reason for hearing loss. Sound loudness is measured in decibels (dB). A whisper is 30 db but a Lawn mower is 95 (dB). Prolonged exposure to anything over 80 dB can cause hearing damage. So turn down the radio! Fun Facts about Ears
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Parts of the Ear
Our ears are special because they take sound waves into your ear drum which makes it vibrate. These vibrations move through a tunnel into your ear and to your brain which turns them into the sound that you hear! Our ears have three parts: the outer, middle and inner ear. Outer ear: The outer ear collects sounds from the environment and funnels them through the auditory system. This structure is also known as the pinna and is made of cartilage. It collects invisible sound waves from the environment funneling them into the outer ear. The sound waves are guided down your ear canal towards the ear drum. The ear drum or tympanic membrane resembles a flexible window that vibrates as sound waves bounce on it. Middle ear: The middle ear transmits sound from the outer ear to the inner ear. This is a hollow, air-filled space also known as the tympanic cavity. It connects to the back of the throat and nose through the Eustachian tubes. Ear drum vibrations continue into the middle ear where the 3 smallest bones in the human body are found. These are also known as the auditory ossicles – the hammer (malleus), anvil (incus) and stirrups (stapes) – named because of their shapes. The main function of these bones is sound amplification. Sound waves make them vibrate, causing sound to be transmitted to the inner ear. Inner ear: The inner ear is responsible for interpreting and transmitting sound (auditory) sensations and balance (vestibular) sensations to the brain. This is found in the temporal bone of the head and is made up of 3 related parts – the cochlea (or spiral tube), 3 semicircular canals and the vestibule (labyrinth). The cochlea is responsible for hearing. It contains tiny hair-like cells connected to the acoustic nerve. This nerve changes energy vibrations in the inner ear fluid into nerve impulses that go to the brain. The brain interprets the impulses received to identify what you are hearing. The vestibule and 3 semicircular canals are responsible for balance. These canals are arranged at right angles to each other. If you change the position of your head, the fluid in the canals moves, allowing the brain to determine the amount and direction of movement. |
Protecting your Ears +Hearing
Hearing keeps us safe and helps us to be alert to our surroundings. It helps us to be able to socialize and to communicate with others. Without our hearing we have to learn a completely different language and way of communicating with others. It is also more difficult for a child to speak and form their language when they can not hear. Protecting our ears and hearing is essential for maintaining overall well-being and quality of life. Our ears play a vital role in our ability to communicate, learn, and engage with the world around us. Exposure to loud noises, whether sudden or prolonged, can lead to permanent damage to the delicate structures of the inner ear. By safeguarding our ears, we ensure the preservation of our auditory health, preventing conditions like hearing loss and tinnitus. Hearing is integral to effective communication, learning, and social interaction, and protecting our ears contributes to a richer and more fulfilling life. Additionally, a healthy auditory system allows us to enjoy the nuances of music, the sounds of nature, and the voices of our loved ones. Embracing habits such as using ear protection in noisy environments, controlling personal audio device volumes, and being mindful of our surroundings ultimately empowers us to safeguard the precious gift of hearing for ourselves and future generations. Nurturing Healthy Hearing Habits
Teaching preschoolers and toddlers about protecting their hearing and ears involves a combination of education, modeling, and creating positive habits. Here are some strategies you can use:
Remember that repetition and consistency are key when teaching young children. Keep the lessons simple, age-appropriate, and enjoyable to create a positive association with ear protection. |
What can Loud Sounds do to your Hearing?
Noise-induced hearing loss happens when tiny hair-like structures (called stereocilia, pronounced STARE-ee-oh-SILL-ee-ah) that sit on top of hair cells in your inner ear are damaged or destroyed by noises that are too loud and/or last for too long. This type of hearing loss is permanent. The good news: You can prevent noise-induced hearing loss! You can prevent hearing loss from noise in three ways:
If you practice these healthy habits now, you can help protect your amazing sense of hearing! ![]()
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What Sounds can Damage your Hearing?
Loud noises happen where you might not expect them, from your home kitchen to the school cafeteria.
If the dishwasher is running, you might turn up the volume on a nearby TV to hear it better. Add a blender and a vacuum cleaner, and you might turn up the volume even more. All those noises can put you at risk for hearing loss if you’re not careful.
Sound is measured in units called decibels (dB), just as height is measured in feet or inches. Because people can’t hear all frequencies, or pitches of sound, A-weighted decibels (dBA) can be used to describe sound based on what human ears can actually hear.
Noise adds up over a lifetime. If you are often exposed to loud sounds, your risk for permanent damage grows over time. Even a single but long-lasting or extremely loud event can cause damage.
Sounds at or below 70 dBA are usually considered safe. Noises are more likely to damage your hearing if they are:
Here are the decibel levels of common sounds:
Hearing loss from too much noise may not be noticeable at first, but the damage can build over time, and it can’t be fixed.
Loud noises happen where you might not expect them, from your home kitchen to the school cafeteria.
If the dishwasher is running, you might turn up the volume on a nearby TV to hear it better. Add a blender and a vacuum cleaner, and you might turn up the volume even more. All those noises can put you at risk for hearing loss if you’re not careful.
Sound is measured in units called decibels (dB), just as height is measured in feet or inches. Because people can’t hear all frequencies, or pitches of sound, A-weighted decibels (dBA) can be used to describe sound based on what human ears can actually hear.
Noise adds up over a lifetime. If you are often exposed to loud sounds, your risk for permanent damage grows over time. Even a single but long-lasting or extremely loud event can cause damage.
Sounds at or below 70 dBA are usually considered safe. Noises are more likely to damage your hearing if they are:
- 85 dBA and last a few hours.
- 100 dBA and last at least 14 minutes.
- 110 dBA and last at least 2 minutes.
Here are the decibel levels of common sounds:
- Pin drop: 0 dBA
- Whisper: 30 dBA
- Normal conversation: 60-70 dBA
- Movie theater: 74-104 dBA
- Heavy city traffic, school cafeteria: 85 dBA
- Lawnmower or tractor: 80-100 dBA
- Motorcycle, dirt bike: 80-110 dBA
- Music player through headphones at maximum volume, concerts, and sporting events: 94-110 dBA
- Ambulance siren: 110-129 dBA
- Jet taking off: 140 dBA
- Fireworks show: 140-160 dBA
Hearing loss from too much noise may not be noticeable at first, but the damage can build over time, and it can’t be fixed.
Try This
Objective:
Introduce preschoolers to the science of hearing and the importance of protecting their ears from potentially harmful loud noises.
Materials:
Large poster or visual aids illustrating the anatomy of the ear
Markers or crayons
Elastic strings or yarn
Craft paper or cardboard
Glue or tape
Instructions:
Introduction to Hearing:
Begin by showcasing a simplified illustration of the ear anatomy. Point out the different parts, emphasizing the delicate structures responsible for hearing.
Briefly explain how sound waves travel through the ear and how the inner ear translates them into signals for our brain.
Decorate Ear Models:
Provide each child with a pre-cut craft paper or cardboard ear model.
Instruct them to color and label the different parts of the ear. Encourage questions and discussions about the role of each part in the hearing process.
Construct Ear Shields:
Discuss the potential harm loud noises can cause to the sensitive structures in the ear.
Transition to creating "Ear Shields" as a protective measure. Assist the children in attaching elastic strings to their ear models, mimicking the real-life connection of the ear to the head.
Sensory Exploration:
Set up a few stations with various objects producing different sound levels (e.g., a bell, a soft drum, and a louder instrument).
Allow the children to experience and categorize these sounds. Emphasize the need to wear their Ear Shields when encountering loud noises.
Scientific Reflection:
Gather the children to discuss their observations and experiences.
Ask questions like:
Ear Superhero Pledge and Reflection:
Have the children recite an "Ear Superhero Pledge" based on their newfound understanding of ear protection.
Conclude with a reflective discussion about how their role as "Sensory Guardians" can positively impact their hearing health.
This scientific approach combines visual learning, hands-on activities, and sensory exploration to help preschoolers grasp the importance of protecting their ears in a way that aligns with the scientific principles of auditory health.
- Activity: "Sensory Guardians - Preserving Precious Hearing"
Objective:
Introduce preschoolers to the science of hearing and the importance of protecting their ears from potentially harmful loud noises.
Materials:
Large poster or visual aids illustrating the anatomy of the ear
Markers or crayons
Elastic strings or yarn
Craft paper or cardboard
Glue or tape
Instructions:
Introduction to Hearing:
Begin by showcasing a simplified illustration of the ear anatomy. Point out the different parts, emphasizing the delicate structures responsible for hearing.
Briefly explain how sound waves travel through the ear and how the inner ear translates them into signals for our brain.
Decorate Ear Models:
Provide each child with a pre-cut craft paper or cardboard ear model.
Instruct them to color and label the different parts of the ear. Encourage questions and discussions about the role of each part in the hearing process.
Construct Ear Shields:
Discuss the potential harm loud noises can cause to the sensitive structures in the ear.
Transition to creating "Ear Shields" as a protective measure. Assist the children in attaching elastic strings to their ear models, mimicking the real-life connection of the ear to the head.
Sensory Exploration:
Set up a few stations with various objects producing different sound levels (e.g., a bell, a soft drum, and a louder instrument).
Allow the children to experience and categorize these sounds. Emphasize the need to wear their Ear Shields when encountering loud noises.
Scientific Reflection:
Gather the children to discuss their observations and experiences.
Ask questions like:
- "What did you notice about the different sounds?"
- "Why do you think we need to protect our ears?"
- "How did wearing the Ear Shields make you feel?"
Ear Superhero Pledge and Reflection:
Have the children recite an "Ear Superhero Pledge" based on their newfound understanding of ear protection.
Conclude with a reflective discussion about how their role as "Sensory Guardians" can positively impact their hearing health.
This scientific approach combines visual learning, hands-on activities, and sensory exploration to help preschoolers grasp the importance of protecting their ears in a way that aligns with the scientific principles of auditory health.
Questions/Discussion
"Were there any sounds that surprised you? Why or why not?"
"How does sound travel through the ear, and how does the ear help us hear?"
"Do you think wearing the Ear Shield made a difference in how you experienced the sounds?"
"Can you think of a time when you've been in a loud environment and wished you had your Ear Shield?"
"What are some things we enjoy hearing, and how would it feel if we couldn't hear them anymore?"
"How can we continue to be Ear Superheroes outside of our classroom?"
- Observation Reflection:
"Were there any sounds that surprised you? Why or why not?"
- Ear Anatomy Understanding:
"How does sound travel through the ear, and how does the ear help us hear?"
- Ear Shield Experience:
"Do you think wearing the Ear Shield made a difference in how you experienced the sounds?"
- Real-Life Application:
"Can you think of a time when you've been in a loud environment and wished you had your Ear Shield?"
- Importance of Hearing:
"What are some things we enjoy hearing, and how would it feel if we couldn't hear them anymore?"
- Ear Superhero Pledge Reflection:
"How can we continue to be Ear Superheroes outside of our classroom?"
Family Connection
Home-Based Sound Hunt:
Encourage families to go on a "sound hunt" at home or in their neighborhood. Have children identify and categorize different sounds they encounter. Discuss the experience during the next class.
DIY Sound Experiments:
Provide families with simple sound experiments they can conduct at home, such as filling glasses with varying levels of water and tapping them to produce different tones. Share observations in the following class.
Create a Family Ear Protection Plan:
Guide families in creating an "Ear Protection Plan" for various situations, such as attending concerts or fireworks. Discuss the plans during a family engagement event.
Family Ear Health Workshop:
Organize a workshop where families can learn more about the anatomy of the ear, common causes of hearing loss, and practical tips for protecting family members' hearing.
Discussion Questions for Families:
Sound Awareness:
"Can you and your child discuss some everyday sounds you encounter at home?"
"How do you manage loud noises at home, especially during activities like watching TV or playing music?"
Ear Protection at Home:
"Are there specific situations at home where you think it's important to protect your child's ears?"
"How can you integrate the concept of ear protection into your daily routines?"
Family Sound Preferences:
"What sounds does your family enjoy together?"
"How would it impact your family if hearing these sounds became challenging?"
Building Healthy Habits:
"How can you encourage your child to incorporate ear protection habits in various environments?"
"What role can family members play in reinforcing the importance of protecting our hearing?"
Family Ear Health Commitment:
"Can your family create a small commitment or pledge to prioritize ear health at home?"
"What steps can you take to ensure that your home environment supports healthy hearing for everyone?"
Encourage families to share their experiences, insights, and any additional activities they come up with. This involvement helps reinforce the concepts learned in class and promotes a collaborative effort between educators and families in fostering healthy habits.
Home-Based Sound Hunt:
Encourage families to go on a "sound hunt" at home or in their neighborhood. Have children identify and categorize different sounds they encounter. Discuss the experience during the next class.
DIY Sound Experiments:
Provide families with simple sound experiments they can conduct at home, such as filling glasses with varying levels of water and tapping them to produce different tones. Share observations in the following class.
Create a Family Ear Protection Plan:
Guide families in creating an "Ear Protection Plan" for various situations, such as attending concerts or fireworks. Discuss the plans during a family engagement event.
Family Ear Health Workshop:
Organize a workshop where families can learn more about the anatomy of the ear, common causes of hearing loss, and practical tips for protecting family members' hearing.
Discussion Questions for Families:
Sound Awareness:
"Can you and your child discuss some everyday sounds you encounter at home?"
"How do you manage loud noises at home, especially during activities like watching TV or playing music?"
Ear Protection at Home:
"Are there specific situations at home where you think it's important to protect your child's ears?"
"How can you integrate the concept of ear protection into your daily routines?"
Family Sound Preferences:
"What sounds does your family enjoy together?"
"How would it impact your family if hearing these sounds became challenging?"
Building Healthy Habits:
"How can you encourage your child to incorporate ear protection habits in various environments?"
"What role can family members play in reinforcing the importance of protecting our hearing?"
Family Ear Health Commitment:
"Can your family create a small commitment or pledge to prioritize ear health at home?"
"What steps can you take to ensure that your home environment supports healthy hearing for everyone?"
Encourage families to share their experiences, insights, and any additional activities they come up with. This involvement helps reinforce the concepts learned in class and promotes a collaborative effort between educators and families in fostering healthy habits.
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Learn more...
- 16 Fun Sense of Hearing Activities for Preschoolers
- Ears & Hearing
- Sound Experiment for Kids to See Sound – Teaching Ideas
- Ways to Explore the Sense of Hearing – Learn Play Imagine
- Ears and Hearing Activities for PreK – 2nd Grade – Home Science Tools
- Silent or Loud? Sound Game for Toddlers – Best Toys for Toddlers
- Sense of Hearing Activity for Kids: What do you “see” with your ears? – Mama Smiles
- How Noisy is Your Snack? – Activity – Make and Takes
- 16 Fun Sense of Hearing Activities for Preschoolers
- Ears & Hearing
- Sound Experiment for Kids to See Sound – Teaching Ideas
- Ways to Explore the Sense of Hearing – Learn Play Imagine
- It's a Noisy Planet. Protect Their Hearing-U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- Free Sound Level Meter App from CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
- Ears and Hearing Activities for PreK – 2nd Grade – Home Science Tools
- Silent or Loud? Sound Game for Toddlers – Best Toys for Toddlers
- Sense of Hearing Activity for Kids: What do you “see” with your ears? – Mama Smiles
- How Noisy is Your Snack? – Activity – Make and Takes
- Dangerous Decibels
- How Do We Hear?-NIDCD
- Tips for Teaching Kids about Noise-Induced Hearing Loss
- Teacher’s Guide: Hearing- KidsHealth
- The Senses: Hearing
If you are learning about the ears, hearing and sound you may want to learn more about the deaf community and sign language with these resources:
- FREE Resources to Learn About Sign Language
- FREE Sign Language Printables
- Teach your children about hearing devices such as hearing aids and cochlear implants with these printables from My Deaf Education.