Back in 2018, Australian educator and author Deanne Carson sparked a massive online debate after suggesting that parents should ask babies for “consent” before changing their diapers. During a television interview, Carson explained that while babies obviously cannot verbally respond, parents could still help build a culture of respect and bodily awareness from infancy by speaking to babies, making eye contact, explaining what they are doing, and paying attention to the child’s reactions and body language.
Her comments quickly spread across social media and triggered strong reactions worldwide. Many people mocked the idea, calling it unrealistic and impractical, while others misunderstood her comments as meaning babies should somehow decide whether or not a diaper change happens. Critics argued that parenting was becoming overly complicated, with some calling the suggestion absurd.