A lively debate has emerged following author and educator Deanne Carson’s suggestion that parents should seek consent from babies before changing their diapers. Her comments, which aired on ABC News, sparked a range of reactions and brought attention to the broader conversation about teaching children about consent from an early age.
Carson advocated for promoting a “culture of consent” within families, encouraging parents to verbally ask their infants for permission before diaper changes. Supporters say this approach helps foster bodily autonomy and respectful boundaries from the very beginning of a child’s life. Critics, however, have expressed concerns about the practicality of this advice, describing it as unrealistic for everyday childcare.
The discussion intensified after the segment was featured on Sky News Australia’s “Outsiders” program, where host Rowan Dean dismissed the idea as impractical. The resulting online conversation brought both support and criticism to Carson’s message.
In response to the debate, Carson took to social media to clarify her position, emphasizing the importance of teaching consent to young children as a preventive measure against abuse. She referenced statistics on sexual assault to highlight the significance of her message.
Reactions remain divided. Some praise Carson’s dedication to children’s rights and abuse prevention, while others argue that her recommendations may be difficult to implement in typical parenting situations. Former New South Wales Senate candidate Kirralie Smith criticized the proposal, suggesting it overlooks the practical demands of caring for infants.
On the other hand, advocacy groups such as Facts Without Frenzy have voiced support for Carson’s views, stating that her approach aligns with international guidelines on abuse prevention and offers valuable tools for parents to engage in sensitive conversations with their children.
This ongoing debate raises important questions about consent, bodily autonomy, and the role of caregivers in nurturing respectful relationships. While some see Carson’s suggestions as a progressive step toward raising aware and empowered children, others consider them an impractical extension of parenting advice.
As discussions continue, it remains clear that conversations about consent in childcare are complex and multifaceted. Whether this perspective marks a meaningful shift in parenting or a contentious topic, the conversation underscores the importance of thoughtful dialogue on how best to support children’s development.
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Due to renewed interest, we are republishing this story, which originally appeared in May 2018.