Should parents ask babies for permission before changing diapers?
Deanne Carson, an author and educator, recently suggested that parents should ask their babies for permission before changing their diapers. She believes this will help create a “culture of consent” from an early age.
This idea has sparked a lot of debate, with people having mixed reactions.
Baby Diaper Consent Debate: Divided Opinions on Teaching Consent to Infants
Carson’s suggestion gained widespread attention after Rowan Dean, the host of Sky News Australia’s “Outsiders,” criticized it as “leftie lunacy.” He mocked the concept of seeking consent from infants, leading to a heated online discussion. Carson defended her viewpoint on social media, emphasizing the importance of teaching consent to young children to help prevent sexual abuse.
Carson’s proposal has received both praise and criticism. Some people commend her for focusing on preventing abuse and advocating for children’s rights. They believe teaching consent early can help foster respect for bodily autonomy.
However, others find her idea unrealistic and excessive. Critics like former New South Wales Senate candidate Kirralie Smith have even called it “neglect and child abuse,” arguing that it complicates the practical aspects of childcare and infant hygiene.
Advocacy groups like Facts Without Frenzy support Carson’s teachings, seeing them as aligned with international best practices in abuse prevention. They believe her guidance helps parents address sensitive topics with their children.
On the other hand, many argue that Carson’s approach trivializes serious issues like sexual assault. They believe that asking for consent from infants is impractical and undermines the gravity of teaching consent in a meaningful way.
The debate over Carson’s suggestion continues, raising complex questions about consent, bodily autonomy, and parenting roles. While some see her recommendations as a progressive shift in parenting norms, others view them as an overreach. The conversation shows no signs of slowing down, with passionate voices on both sides.
