Let’s face it, everyone seems to have an opinion these days. With the Internet, sharing those opinions has never been easier. Often, the stranger the opinion, the more buzz it creates. This latest one? It’s creating quite a stir.
Imagine being a parent and hearing an ‘expert’ suggest that you should ask your baby for permission before changing their diaper. Sounds absurd, right? Well, this idea has become the latest sensational topic going viral.
Meet Deanne Carson, a self-proclaimed relationship and sexuality educator, speaker, and author. She believes parents should check in with their babies before taking on diaper duty. Yes, you heard correctly. Ask. The. Baby.
Now, consent is indeed a significant topic. But asking a baby for permission to change a dirty diaper? Many seasoned parents are understandably skeptical.
Let’s be honest: changing diapers is far from a parent’s favorite task. It can be messy and often thankless but is absolutely essential for a baby’s well-being. So, adding the ritual of asking for consent might seem like overcomplicating an already challenging job.
Carson’s recommendation, shared on ABC back in 2018, emphasizes starting consent education at an early age. While older toddlers might understand the concept, she believes that even infants should be part of this consent culture.
Here’s the twist: Babies can’t verbalize their consent. But Carson argues they can give nonverbal signals, like eye contact, to show they’re on board.
The intention behind promoting a culture of consent is commendable, but some might argue it falls short in practical terms. Carson explained how asking and waiting for a baby’s cues could foster better communication between parents and their little ones.
The reactions? Absolutely priceless. Reporters and viewers were quick to question its practicality. What if the baby ‘said’ no?
Picture this scenario: “May I change your diaper, sweetie?” The baby gives a glare. What then? Leave them in their mess? The responses on social media were filled with humor and skepticism.
“She must have never wrestled a toddler during a diaper change or worse, leaves them in a dirty diaper until ‘consent’ is given. OMG.”
“If the baby says no, then what? Do we still change the diaper? Now that’s the real issue.”
It’s an interesting point to ponder, isn’t it? Is the basic task of diaper changing now wrapped up in a web of consent protocols? Next time you find yourself in this sticky situation, will you remember Deanne Carson’s advice? Or, like many parents, will you carry on with the job and chuckle about it later?
