An Australian \u201csexuality educator,\u201d Deanne Carson, sparked online controversy after suggesting parents should ask babies for permission before changing their diapers.<\/p>\n
Carson argues that building a \u201cculture of consent\u201d should begin at birth, not for verbal agreement, but to teach respect for bodily autonomy. She encourages parents to pause, make eye contact, and narrate actions like \u201cI\u2019m going to change your diaper now,\u201d to foster early communication and trust.<\/p>\n
Critics, however, called the idea unrealistic and extreme. Commentators like Rowan Dean labeled it \u201clefty lunacy,\u201d while psychologist John Rosemond said it promotes confusion and dysfunction. Social media users mocked the concept, comparing it to asking a cat for permission to change its litter.<\/p>\n
Still, some supported Carson\u2019s intentions, saying her goal\u2014to promote respectful parenting\u2014has merit, even if her example went too far.<\/p>\n
The broader takeaway: while infants can\u2019t consent, many agree that engaging with them respectfully and mindfully helps nurture early communication. Ultimately, whether to \u201cask\u201d may depend on individual parenting styles.<\/p>\n