2025-11-17 14:19:00
Parents should ask their babies’ permission before changing their nappies, according to two Australian academics who argue that consent should be taught “before they can even talk”.
Dr. Nicole Downs and Dr. Katherine Bussey, early-childhood specialists at Deakin University, claim that treating nappy changes as something to “rush through” misses a key opportunity to teach children body autonomy.
Writing in The Conversation, they insist that consent should be “a normal, everyday part of life” rather than a conversation reserved for teenagers.
Their suggestion has sparked controversy, echoing a 2018 debate when Body Safety Australia chief Deanne Carson was widely mocked for making a similar claim.
But Dr. Downs and Dr. Bussey argue that involving babies in the process can help them understand what is happening and develop a sense of agency.
They recommend getting down to a child’s level and stating, “You need a nappy change,” followed by a pause so the child can process the information.
Parents should then offer a choice – such as walking or being carried to the changing table—and watch for cues in their facial expressions or body language.
Crucially, the pair argue against distracting children with toys or songs, saying youngsters should “notice when someone is touching their most intimate parts”.
They suggest guiding babies through small actions – like lifting their bottom to remove the nappy—and using anatomical terms such as penis, vulva and anus to help them understand their bodies and communicate clearly as they grow.
The academics acknowledge the approach may feel unrealistic for many parents, especially during emergencies (“poosplosions” included), but say applying these principles “as often as possible” can nurture independence and reduce power struggles.
However, critics insist the advice is out of touch.
Child psychologist Andrew Fuller said focusing on consent for nappy changes is “impractical”, adding: “Families work best when kids trust their parents to do things in their best interest.
“It’s not about consent—it’s about trust.”
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