Beverly Hills Hearing Center was founded in 1983 by Bonnie Baehr. Prior to that, Dr. Baehr practiced at the House Ear Clinic in Los Angeles as a staff audiologist for seven years. She was involved with diagnostic testing, hearing aid evaluations, research and rehabilitation. Dr. Baehr did her clinical fellowship training at the Veterans Administration Outpatient Clinic in downtown Los Angeles. She is a member of the American Academy of Audiology, American Speech Language and Hearing Association, California Academy of Audiology and Academy of Doctors of Audiology.
Latest posts by Bonnie L. Baehr, Au.D. (see all)
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Supporting a teenager with hearing loss involves a combination of understanding, communication, and encouragement. Adolescence is a pivotal period filled with academic, social, and emotional challenges, and navigating these ups and downs can be more complicated for teenagers dealing with hearing loss. Let’s explore some effective strategies for parents who want to provide support and empower their teenagers to thrive.
Understanding Your Teenager’s Experience
Teenagers with hearing loss may face unique challenges related to communication, self-esteem, and peer interactions. Understanding their perspective is the first step in providing meaningful support. Encourage open conversations about their experiences, feelings, and any challenges they encounter. Active listening fosters a strong parent-teenager connection and establishes a foundation of trust.
When your teenager shares their experiences, you can validate what they’re experiencing, thank them for sharing, and welcome ongoing communication.
Communication Strategies at Home
You can help your teen communicate easily at home. Ensure your face is well-lit and visible during conversations. Maintain eye contact and speak clearly. Visual cues enhance communication for teenagers with hearing loss.
You can also encourage your teenager to express their thoughts and feelings openly. This promotes self-advocacy and helps them articulate their needs in various situations.
Advocating for Educational Needs
If your teen has hearing loss, it’s important that you advocate for their educational needs and help them get appropriate support in school.
Collaborate with School Staff
Establish open communication with teachers, counselors, and support staff at your teenager’s school. Work together to create an inclusive learning environment that accommodates their hearing needs.
Explore Assistive Technologies
Investigate the availability of assistive technologies, such as FM systems or captioning services, to enhance your teenager’s educational experience. Stay informed about advancements in hearing assistance devices.
Encouraging Social Inclusion
If your teen has hearing loss, they may have trouble connecting with peers due to communication challenges. You can help your teen build tools to overcome social isolation and deepen connections.
Promote Peer Understanding
Foster awareness and understanding among your teenager’s peers about hearing loss. Encourage open discussions in the school community to reduce stigma and promote inclusivity. You can help your teen practice conversations about their hearing loss to share their experiences with their friends.
Support Social Activities
Facilitate opportunities for your teenager to engage in social activities. Whether it’s joining clubs, sports teams, or community groups, these experiences contribute to their overall well-being.
Building Confidence and Self-Esteem
Recognize and celebrate your teenager’s accomplishments, both big and small. Positive reinforcement boosts confidence and encourages them to pursue their goals.
You can also support your teenager in developing independence. This may involve teaching them to advocate for themselves, manage their hearing devices, and navigate social situations with confidence.
Provide Emotional Support
Adolescence can be emotionally challenging. Ensure your teenager feels comfortable discussing their emotions and experiences. Offer a safe space for them to express themselves without judgment.
You may want to consider the benefits of counseling or therapy for your teenager. Professional support can help them navigate the emotional aspects of hearing loss and adolescence.
Technology Integration and Exploration
Keep up to date on the latest advancements in hearing technology. This knowledge enables you to make informed decisions about upgrades or new devices that may benefit your teenager. Engage your teenager in exploring the features of their hearing aids. Understanding how to use and maintain these devices empowers them to take control of their auditory well-being.
Regular Check-ups and Hearing Aid Maintenance
To empower your teen who has hearing loss, schedule regular check-ups with a hearing health specialist. Not only is this the best way to monitor your teenager’s hearing health, but it also encourages them to be proactive in maintaining their hearing aids or other devices.
Discuss Hearing Health Goals
Have open discussions with your teen about their hearing health goals. Whether it’s improving communication skills or exploring new technologies, aligning on these goals ensures a collaborative approach.
Fostering Resilience in Teenagers with Hearing Loss
Empowering teenagers with hearing loss involves a combination of practical strategies, emotional support, and a commitment to their unique needs. By fostering resilience and independence, parents can equip their teenagers to navigate the challenges of adolescence with confidence.
If your teenager has hearing loss, visit us today for a hearing test, and all your hearing health needs.