A second comments, “I think she wants to encourage a conversation about consent amongst kids but has made a mockery of it by taking it to the extreme. Babies can’t consent to anything. Ever. They’re babies! Their safety and survival needs are assumed.”

Another pens, “I agree with Deanne Carson. Easy to chat to your baby. Easy to create a climate of consent in your home.”

While the debate continues, people agree that there’s value in being mindful and communicative with infants, even if it’s not strictly about consent.

Ultimately, the choice to “ask” for consent may come down to individual parenting styles and comfort levels. For some, asking for consent is just one more way to cultivate a respectful, loving relationship with their infants; for others, it may be enough to simply engage, observe, and respond to their baby’s needs.

What are your thoughts on Carson suggesting that parents ask babies for permission when it comes to dirty diapers? Please let us know what you think and then share this story so we can hear from others!