2026 Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Conference
March 15-17, 2026 • Jacksonville, FL
3/16/2026 | 11:25 AM - 11:55 AM | Research and Practice-Supporting Professionals, Families, and Children with microtia/atresia | City Terrace 9
Research and Practice-Supporting Professionals, Families, and Children with microtia/atresia
This presentation offers an in-depth exploration of children with conductive hearing loss and microtia and atresia focusing on current research, policies, and clinical practices that impact their development and quality of life and using that information to plan care and support families. Microtia and atresia are congenital conditions characterized by malformation or absence of the outer ear and ear canal, often resulting in significant conductive hearing loss. Representing about 5% of children identified with hearing loss at birth, there is growing research about their development, past research has focused on reconstructive surgery and/or implantable devices, which are typically not options until children are older than 5 years of age. Newer research that explores some of the same topics as research on children with SNHL, such as early detection and intervention, impact on development, support for families, and other medical needs will be reviewed and discussed.
The presentation will review pertinent research, existing policies and guidelines that influence intervention and practice, highlighting the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving otolaryngologists, audiologists, speech-language pathologists, educators, and other professionals. A key focus will be ways in which professionals can support parents and children throughout their developmental journey. The presentation will also explore ways to enhance family education, develop strategies for effective communication, promote advocacy, and facilitate access to appropriate resources and services.
Participants will leave with a better understanding of the latest research findings, current practices, and practical approaches to improving outcomes for children with microtia and atresia. They will be better equipped to collaborate with families, advocate for their needs, and implement evidence-based interventions that promote optimal developmental, social, and emotional outcomes. Ultimately, the session aims to enhance professional practices and support networks for children and families affected by these complex conditions, fostering positive growth and inclusion.
- A participant will analyze current research, policies, and clinical practices related to children with microtia and atresia.
- A participant will develop evidence-based guidance to support the diverse needs of children with conductive hearing loss and their families.
- A participant will identify effective communication and family-centered practices that empower parents and enhance developmental outcomes for children with microtia and atresia.
Presentation:
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Handouts:
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Transcripts:
CART transcripts are NOT YET available, but will be posted shortly after the conference
Presenters/Authors
Meredith Berger
(Primary Presenter), Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech and Teachers College, Columbia University, mberger@clarkeschools.org;
Meredith Berger, MS became the director of Clarke Schools for Hearing & Speech/New York, an Early Intervention and Preschool listening spoken language program, in 2008. Prior to that, she was the Deaf/Hard of Hearing Educational Specialist at New York Eye and Ear’s Ear Institute/Cochlear Implant Center. She received a B.S. in Education from SUNY at Buffalo State College and master’s degrees in Deaf Education and in Educational Leadership from Canisius College. In addition to presenting on the educational needs of children with hearing loss, she has also co-authored pieces on the Clinic-School relationship. In 2017, Meredith began her doctoral studies at Teachers College, Columbia University to find answers to her own questions on the needs/outcomes of children who are deaf or hard of hearing, particularly those with microtia/atresia, and their families.
ASHA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
• Receives Salary for Employment from Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.
AAA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
Financial relationship with Clarke Schools for Hearing and Speech.
Nature: Employee of Clarke Schools.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.