Is it advisable to take children to concerts?

Seeing parents attending concerts with their children is no longer unusual. More and more adults are choosing to share the experience of seeing their favorite artists live with their little ones.

And although Dominican law does not prohibit minors from attending these types of events (as long as they are accompanied by an adult), there are some things you should keep in mind before making this decision.

What is the ideal age?

From a psychological point of view, the recommended age to attend a concert varies depending on the type of show.

This is according to Naomi Feliz, a child and adolescent clinical psychologist at @mentalmenterd , who explains that children from the age of five can attend family or children's concerts , always accompanied by an adult.

For larger outdoor events, she recommends bringing children ages 10 or 12 and up, as long as the venue is safe, with available seating, moderate volume, and adult supervision . For concerts with large crowds, she says it's best to wait until children are 14 or older.

"In all cases , the most important thing is to prioritize the child's safety and comfort, and ensure the experience is positive and age-appropriate," says the mental health expert.

Starting at age 16 or 17 (depending on the adolescent's maturity), it is possible to allow them to attend alone, provided there are safe conditions, good family communication, and clear agreements about behavior and responsibilities.

To foster safe autonomy , Feliz says it's helpful to establish prior agreements: set arrival times, know who they'll be with, discuss alcohol or other substance use, and clarify the consequences for noncompliance.

"This builds confidence and accompanies them responsibly on their path to independence ," he says.

Yale-New Haven Hospital pediatrician Elianny Lantigua cautions that while the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) doesn't set a minimum age for concertgoing , it does recommend avoiding exposing children to loud noises.

" Concerts and musical events can reach noise levels that are dangerous for the ears, especially for children , whose hearing systems are more sensitive and still developing," he says.

The doctor explains that exposure to high noise levels can have multiple negative consequences on children 's health and development.

" Excessive and/or prolonged exposure to loud sounds can cause hearing loss, tinnitus (a sensation of ringing in the ears), and hyperacusis (hypersensitivity to everyday sounds)," he says.

"One of the main consequences is sensorineural hearing loss , which occurs due to damage to the hair cells in the inner ear and is often irreversible when caused by excessive recreational or occupational exposure," he adds.

With this in mind, small or acoustic events are the best option for children. "In these venues, the decibel level is usually lower, there are fewer crowds , and it's easier to control noise exposure. For example: acoustic concerts , children's presentations, or family cultural shows."

The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests that, "If a place is too noisy for an adult, it definitely is for a child."

What if there is explicit music?

The psychologist is clear: concerts with explicit lyrics are not appropriate for children . The content can normalize risky behavior or generate emotional confusion.

Ideally, you should wait until children are 16 or older, always discussing the content before and afterward. "It's not about censoring, but rather providing context, encouraging reflection, and helping children interpret what they hear," Feliz explains.

"During childhood and adolescence , children are in the midst of developing their identity, values, and behaviors. If they constantly hear lyrics that portray violence, sexism, sexualization, or consumerism, this can shape their worldview, their self-esteem, and their way of relating," she adds.

Tips to protect your hearing

If you decide to take your children to a concert, hearing protection is essential . Dr. Lantigua recommends two types:

Earmuffs (cup-type protectors): These are the most recommended for young children (even babies). They cover the entire ear, are easy to put on and take off, and reduce noise well. They are ideal for children who cannot tolerate earplugs or for very young children (loose earplugs can be a choking hazard if placed in the mouth).
Earplugs: These can be foam, silicone, or special models for music. Properly fitted foam earplugs reduce noise by up to 20 decibels (dB). There are earplugs specifically designed for concerts or musical events. These reduce dangerous volume levels, but allow the child to hear the music clearly, without excessive distortion.

"It's necessary to protect children 's hearing because the noise at concerts is very loud (it can reach 130 dB, similar to an airplane taking off). Hearing damage is cumulative and can begin at high levels, even for a short time," he notes.

He adds that the child must wear these items from the moment he enters the premises until he leaves, without exceptions.

If you're going to be very close to the speakers or the noise is very loud (such as at large rock concerts ), it's safest to use earmuffs and earplugs simultaneously . This combination provides the greatest possible noise reduction.

Lantigua shares key tips for taking care of your hearing health during the concert:

Stay as far away from large speakers as possible. Sound intensity decreases with distance.
Periodically (every 45-60 minutes) leave the venue for quieter areas (hallways, food courts, or restrooms) to give your ears a break. Wear ear protection until you're completely out of the loud music area. The longer the concert, the greater the risk. Combine these breaks with consistent use of ear protection.
Use cell phone apps to measure noise levels. If they consistently register above 80-85 dBA, it's a clear sign that protection is essential and that breaks are important. These apps aren't laboratory-based, but they serve as a warning.

If your child has already been exposed to other loud noises that day (music with headphones , instrument practice, etc.), the risk at the concert is greater. If possible, plan for the concert to be the only loud exposure of the day.

And if you have to say "no"...

Refusing to take a child or teenager to a concert can be a challenge, but it's also an educational opportunity . The behavioral health professional suggests:

Listen first: Let him tell you why he wants to go.
Validate their excitement: "I understand that you're very excited and want to go."
Explain clearly: "This event is not appropriate yet due to your age, the location, or the content."
Offer an alternative: "Maybe we can go to another one together later."
Leave the door open: show willingness to reconsider in the future .

"We must remember that every well-established boundary , when communicated respectfully and with listening, also builds trust. It's not just about saying 'no,' but about teaching self-care , understanding the reasons why, and strengthening the bond with our children," Feliz concludes.