An Australian educator, Deanne Carson, has ignited controversy with her suggestion that parents should ask for a baby’s consent before changing their diaper. While this idea might seem unfeasible—since babies can’t give verbal responses—Carson’s intent isn’t to seek literal approval, but to encourage respect and awareness of personal boundaries from the very beginning.
Her approach involves speaking to the baby, saying something like, “I’m going to change your diaper now, is that okay?” and watching their body language for cues. She believes this helps introduce the concept of bodily autonomy early in a child’s development.
The suggestion has led to some humorous reactions, with one person joking if the same consent should be asked before cleaning a cat’s litter box. However, Carson’s primary message focuses on fostering a culture of respect and consent, starting in infancy. This reflects a shift in parenting that prioritizes emotional growth and awareness. While her viewpoint isn’t universally accepted, it sparks important conversations about evolving perspectives on parenting and communication with children.
