A suggestion by Deanne Carson, a renowned sexuality educator, has sparked intense debate among parents and caregivers. Carson proposes that parents should seek their baby’s consent before changing their nappy, arguing that even infants can communicate their agreement through body language and non-verbal cues.
Carson’s approach, as shared on ABC News in 2018, involves asking the baby, “Is it okay?” and waiting for eye contact and physical responses to ensure the child feels heard. However, this method has raised several concerns among parents, who question the practicality of seeking consent from an infant.
Critics argue that if a baby’s body language indicates they don’t want their nappy changed, parents would be expected to leave them in a soiled state until they “consent.” This has led many to label Carson’s approach as “absurd” and unrealistic.
Despite the backlash, some experts agree that teaching consent from a young age is crucial. Carson’s idea has even been adopted by some childcare providers, who encourage parents to involve their babies in the changing process. This can include asking for their help in removing their nappy or wiping themselves clean.
The controversy surrounding Carson’s approach highlights the challenges of balancing theoretical concepts with real-world parenting. While consent education is essential, the debate raises questions about the effectiveness of seeking consent from infants. Ultimately, parents must navigate this complex issue and decide what works best for their child.