by Veronica Spettmann

Do you love listening to heavy music with your nieces and nephews or going to particularly wild concerts with them? Or do you wish you could take them to see some of your favorite bands in concert, but are just too afraid that they aren’t old enough? I was lucky enough to spend an evening at a metal show with my niece-by-choice and her parents recently, and I realized that a lot of Aunties may not bring their younger nieces and nephews to cool shows like that because of the obvious concerns surround that kind of environment.  Here are some pointers to put your mind at rest so you can enjoy your favorite bands together, no matter what the volume.

If you're afraid a show or concert may not be appropriate for your nieces and nephews, there are a few things to consider. Of course, this is primarily up to the discretion of your nieces’ and nephews’ parents. Their word is law, and if they deem a show to be inappropriate, then you’ll have to respect that decision.  However, if Mom and Dad say you’re okay to go, then there are a couple of things you should keep in mind. 

Will there be mosh pits at this show? - A lot of rock and metal bands have mosh pits and crowd surfers at their shows, which is all fine and fun, but could be a hazardous nightmare for kids.  If you want to be close to the stage, be prepared to act as a human shield for them.  If that doesn’t appeal to you, consider getting a spot further from the stage; this will keep them out of harm’s way and will also be safer for their hearing.

Does this particular artist curse a lot? - If the answer is yes, you can either choose to take your nieces and nephews to another show, or you can make it very clear to them before you go that some words are completely inappropriate and that they should not repeat them if they hear them.  Aunties are a great influence on their nieces and nephews, so they’ll listen to you.  If your nieces and nephews are really young, they  may not even know what most of the lyrics mean, so you won’t have to worry too much.

Do your nieces and nephews handle crowds well? - If not, consider taking them to see less popular bands where there will be smaller crowds, or try to find another way to share your musical passions that will involve fewer people.  If your nieces and nephews love the excitement of being surrounded by people, then rock on! Just be careful to keep your nieces and nephews close to you and to have a back-up plan should you be separated from each other.

Should you be concerned for your nieces' and nephews' hearing? - kidshealth.org, a great reference for kids and adults alike explains that the volume at concerts is high enough to cause temporary hearing damage or hearing loss.  Most Aunties have probably experienced this at some point: that feeling that you are wearing earmuffs after a show when you aren’t actually. The same happens to kids, though extended exposure to volumes like that can cause serious permanent hearing loss for your nieces and nephews. If you want to bring your nieces and nephews to those bass-filled hip-hop shows or to a blaring loud metal concert, consider providing them with earplugs to protect their hearing. There are even custom earplugs for musicians or frequent show-goers! And don’t worry, these shows are loud enough that your nieces and nephews won’t have any trouble hearing and enjoying the show.


Don’t let concerns like these get in the way of enjoying a rockin’ show with your younger nieces and nephews.  As long as you’re safe, well-informed, and stay close to your nieces and nephews, these concerts and shows can be a great way to bond with your favorite kids in the world.  You’ll also be the coolest Auntie around!


Published: November 30, 2011