How should I raise my child with Microtia?
Microtia in itself, is a relatively benign condition and should be treated as such. As long as there are no other associated conditions, these children live a relatively normal life. Raise them as you would any other child and do not make a big deal about their Microtia. If you try to hide your child’s ear with hats / long hair etc. your child may think that it is something they should hide and therefore may be more self conscious about their ear. Help your child to accept this condition and not be unduly self conscious about it. Help your child to focus on their strengths and build their self esteem. As your child gets older, it may be helpful to prepare and practise with your child some simple responses to questions or comments about their ear e.g. “It just didn’t grow properly” or “It was like that when I was born”. You could even let them have a little fun with it – some children have come up with great stories about crocodile attacks etc.
