REZEPTE VON HEUTE Schnell, einfach, lecker: Rezepte von Heute 
A parenting expert has sparked a huge debate after suggesting that parents should begin teaching children about consent from an extremely early age — even during something as routine as changing a baby’s diaper.
Deanne Carson, an author and educator who has spoken publicly about consent and child safety, argued that parents can start creating a “culture of consent” inside the home from infancy.
Her suggestion quickly attracted attention after she explained that parents could verbally ask a baby for permission before beginning a diaper change.
What Exactly Did She Mean?
Carson’s comments were not based on the idea that a newborn baby would actually be able to answer “yes” or “no.”
Instead, she suggested that parents could pause, make eye contact and verbally tell the child what they are about to do.
The goal, according to her argument, is to help children gradually become familiar with the idea that their bodies deserve respect and that communication should happen before someone touches them.
For example, a parent might tell the baby that it is time for a diaper change and wait briefly before continuing.
Carson believes that even though babies cannot verbally respond, these repeated interactions can help establish respectful communication from a young age.
The Reaction Was Immediate
Once the comments began circulating online and on television, reactions poured in from both sides.
Some viewers supported the broader message behind the suggestion, saying that teaching children about boundaries and bodily autonomy is important.
Others thought the recommendation went far too far.
Critics questioned how a parent should respond if a baby cries, moves away or appears uncomfortable during a necessary diaper change.
For many parents, basic hygiene is simply something that has to be done regardless of whether a baby appears happy about it.
Critics Called The Idea Impractical
The debate became even more heated after television commentators discussed Carson’s remarks.
Some critics mocked the concept, arguing that babies are not developmentally capable of giving meaningful consent and that diaper changes are an essential part of caring for a child.
Others worried that presenting routine caregiving through the language of consent could make an otherwise straightforward parenting responsibility unnecessarily complicated.
Former political candidate Kirralie Smith was among those who strongly criticized Carson’s approach, arguing that practical childcare and hygiene still have to take priority.
Supporters Say The Message Is Being Misunderstood
Carson and those supporting her position have argued that critics are focusing too heavily on the literal act of asking a baby for permission.
They say the larger purpose is to encourage parents to communicate with children about what is happening to their bodies rather than performing routine caregiving without any explanation.
Supporters believe that conversations surrounding personal boundaries should begin long before children are old enough to understand more complicated discussions about relationships or consent.
Carson also defended her position publicly after receiving criticism, emphasizing that her work focuses heavily on child safety and abuse prevention.
Parents Remain Divided
The controversy has highlighted a much larger question for parents: how early should children begin learning about personal boundaries?
Few people would argue against teaching children that they have a right to feel safe and respected.
But opinions differ dramatically when it comes to how those lessons should be introduced — especially when dealing with babies who cannot yet speak or understand the meaning of consent.
Some parents see Carson’s method as harmless communication that could help create healthy habits later in life.
Others believe asking a baby for permission before a necessary diaper change simply makes no practical sense.
The Debate Isn’t Going Away
What began as a discussion about diaper changing quickly turned into a much broader debate about parenting, bodily autonomy and how children should be taught about personal boundaries.
And judging by the reaction online, there appears to be very little agreement.
So what do you think? Is verbally asking a baby before changing their diaper a useful way to teach respect and boundaries — or has the idea gone too far?
