In today’s world, opinions are a dime a dozen, and the internet has made it easier than ever to share them. But sometimes, these opinions can be downright bizarre. Take, for example, the recent suggestion that parents should ask their babies for consent before changing their diapers.
Deanne Carson, a self-proclaimed relationship and sexuality educator, has been making headlines with her claim that parents should check in with their babies before diving into diaper duty. Yes, you read that right – ask the baby for permission.
While consent is undoubtedly an important topic, applying it to diaper changes seems absurd. Experienced parents are rolling their eyes at the idea, and it’s easy to see why. Changing diapers is a messy and often thankless task, but it’s essential for a baby’s health and happiness.
Carson’s advice, which she shared on ABC back in 2018, emphasizes the importance of starting consent education at a young age. But how can babies, who can’t even verbalize their consent, possibly give their permission? Carson argues that babies can give nonverbal signals, like eye contact, to show they’re on board.
The reactions to Carson’s advice have been priceless. Reporters and viewers alike are questioning the feasibility of asking a baby for consent. What happens if the baby says no? Do parents just leave them in their dirty diaper until they’re “ready to consent”?
The Twitter responses have been filled with humor and disbelief. “Either she’s never wrestled a toddler during a change, or worse, she just left hers in a dirty diaper until it was ‘ready to consent’.” Another user joked, “And what happens when baby says no? Do it anyway? Whoa, now there’s the real problem.”
It’s interesting food for thought, but is the basic task of diaper changing really entangled in a web of consent protocols? Will parents remember Deanne Carson’s advice the next time they’re stuck in this sticky situation, or will they just get on with the job and save the laughter for later?
