Auditory Overstimulation Solution for Elementary Teachers with Loop Earplugs
Elementary classrooms are inherently dynamic, noisy places. Especially music classrooms. For many educators, learning has shifted from lecture based, teacher-led instruction to student-driven collaboration and exploration. One consequence of a more hands on approach to instruction is the increased noise levels! While this shift benefits students’ engagement and learning, it can also lead to auditory overstimulation for you as a teacher.
(This post is NOT sponsored or endorsed by Loop Earplugs. All opinions and reviews are my own. I paid for my own Loops. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you! However, my participation in the Amazon Associate program helps keep other “annoying” advertisements off my website. Thanks for your support!)
Noise Makes Me Cranky
Auditory overstimulation occurs when excessive noise overwhelms the brain’s ability to process sound effectively. This can lead to increased stress, irritability, fatigue, and even headaches. For teachers, particularly in music classrooms where sound levels fluctuate constantly, this overstimulation can make it difficult to concentrate, communicate effectively, and maintain a calm and positive environment. Or at least, that has been my experience.
I am the mom of four busy (and loud!) boys! A while back ago, I found myself completely auditorily overstimulated on a daily basis. It made me cranky and irritable.
Thank goodness I discovered Loop earplugs! These small but mighty tools helped me manage my sensory input at home, and it eventually dawned on me—I can take these to school and wear them while my students are working in centers or playing their recorders!
Trust me. These are gold.
But There’s a Solution!
One of the reasons I love my Loops is that they reduce sound without completely blocking it. I can still hear enough to know what’s going on in my classroom without feeling overwhelmed by the constant barrage of sound. This has been a game-changer for my teaching experience. Instead of feeling exhausted and frazzled by midday, I can stay present, focused, and calm even during high-energy activities. My brain appreciates the extra help in blocking out the excessive noise!
I often hear my fellow music educators say, “I want to do music centers or large group programs like Recorder Karate, but I can’t handle the noise!” If this sounds familiar, Loop earplugs might be the solution you’ve been looking for! You may be surprised to find that your ability to handle the chaos improves with such a simple solution!
By reducing auditory overstimulation, Loops help lower anxiety and stress levels. This means you can confidently implement engaging, student-centered learning activities without dreading the accompanying noise. When you feel more in control of your sensory environment, you are better equipped to support your students and create a more positive learning space for everyone.
Choosing your Loops
Finding the right set of Loops for you isn’t too difficult. I have found the Loop Engage 2 to be the best for “staying present,” just with less background noise. You may also find the Loop Switch 2 to be a good fit as you can change between three different noise filtering options. I have not personally tried these, however. I also love my Quiets... for times I just need EVERYTHING blocked out.
If you’ve ever hesitated to introduce interactive music lessons due to the potential for sensory overload, consider giving Loop earplugs a try. Your brain—and your students—will thank you!
Why I Like Loops:
I will admit – I don’t have much to compare my Loops to. I tried one pair and haven’t looked back. Instead of wasting time on finding what else might work, I will stick with what I love!
They work: When I first was looking for ear plugs, I needed ones that would be blocking enough that I wouldn’t get auditorily overstimulated, but didn’t block out so much I couldn’t hear my kids. Loop Engage earplugs were PERFECT!
Colorful: I am a sucker for being able to choose fun colors for my accessories. Loop has many different color options. I especially love that I can use the color to tell which set I need at a glance.
Sizing and Comfort: Each set comes with different sized, interchangeable earplug tips. If your ears canals are like mine, you may need a small in one ear and medium in the other.
Easy to Clean: Because they are made to swap out easily, they are also easy to clean!
I hope this is helpful on your quest to reduce your own auditory overstimulation while teaching music. I know it has been a game changer for me!