I’ll be real—I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Loop Earplugs Engage Kids 2. My 8-year-old is sensitive to sound, especially in crowded places, and we’ve tried a few products that just didn’t sit right. But these? They surprised me.

First off, the design is actually cute. We got the Ocean Orange pair, and they don’t look like medical gear—which matters to my kid. He rolled his eyes when I first pulled them out, but then he put them in his ears and said, ‘These don’t hurt, Mom.’ Win.

The silicone is soft but sturdy, and they stayed in during a chaotic afternoon at the mall (yes, really). I was worried they’d fall out or feel bulky, but he kept forgetting he was wearing them. That’s saying something.

At $21, they’re not the cheapest option, but for how much we’ve used them already—school assemblies, birthday parties, even bedtime when his sister’s music is too loud—I’d say they’re worth it. Honestly, I wish I had a pair for myself.

Oh, and random thought: while we were testing these, I kept humming ‘Ducks vs Stars’ from that old video game my nephew plays. Don’t ask me why. Maybe it was the colors?

If your kid struggles with noise like mine does, these might just save your sanity—quietly.