Childcare chain urges parents to ask for permission before changing nappies
Individuals who have experience as parents or caregivers of infants and toddlers are well aware that changing diapers is often met with resistance from the child. Recently, a childcare organization in Australia proposed that parents seek their child’s consent prior to changing their nappies. This recommendation did not receive the anticipated level of acceptance.
Australian Daycare Recommends Parental Consent Before Nappy Changes
In an initiative aimed at instilling the concept of consent from an early age, the Australian childcare chain Only About Children has suggested that parents ask for permission before changing their children’s nappies (commonly referred to as diapers). They encourage parents to empathize with their children by considering how they might feel in such situations.
“If you were a baby, how would you prefer to have your nappy changed?” they inquired.
The organization aims to foster respectful diaper changes and enhance the bond between parent and child. Some of their recommendations include:
- Maintaining an open-minded approach and refraining from interrupting the toddler during the changing process.
- Seeking cooperation while recognizing that a child’s preferences for changing may evolve as they grow (for instance, they may prefer to stand rather than lie down).
- Promoting independence: For example, if the child is capable, parents can encourage them to remove their own diaper (with assistance, if needed) or to wipe themselves.
- Waiting for a suitable moment in the child’s play before initiating the changing process.
- Asking whether the child would like to walk to the changing table or be carried.
These practices, they assert, help teach independence, body autonomy, and the concept of consent.
It Does Not Imply Allowing Children to Remain in Soiled Diapers
The organization emphasizes that this approach does not imply that children should be permitted to remain in soiled diapers simply because they are reluctant to be changed at that moment. There are, of course, health implications associated with this. Instead, they advocate for allowing the child to have a greater voice in the process by phrasing it as, “We need to change your diaper now; are you comfortable with that?”
They Are Not the First to Propose This Idea
In April, a mother from the United States gained significant attention on TikTok for her approach to teaching consent and body autonomy to her infants and toddlers during diaper changes. Her intention is to ensure that her child feels engaged in the process.
“The aim is to make him feel involved rather than a passive participant while his body is being handled,” she explains. “Although young toddlers and babies cannot provide consent for diaper changes, these changes are essential for their care.”
Her respectful approach to changing diapers includes:
- Describing the actions being taken as they occur.
- Engaging with the child throughout the process through songs, conversations, and questions.
- If the child expresses discomfort or resistance, explaining the necessity of the diaper change and offering them a choice (for instance: Would you prefer to change now or in two minutes?).
While it is true that infants cannot verbally communicate or give consent, the experience can still be made interactive. Observing their body language, conversing with them, singing, and providing undivided attention can enhance the experience.
There Are Many Who Disagree
Numerous individuals have voiced their opposition online, arguing that such efforts are futile since babies lack the understanding and ability to consent. Child Psychologist Dr. Michael Carr-Gregg is among those who disagree.
“Attempting to seek consent from a six-month-old is akin to trying to teach a dog Shakespeare – it serves no purpose,” he stated. “They simply do not possess the cognitive ability to grasp this concept. Babies respond to touch and tone; therefore, it is essential to be gentle and use soothing sounds, as that is your responsibility.”
However, many others have chosen to respond with humor.
“I was denied my fundamental rights as a child,” remarked some.
“What happens when the child refuses to have their dirty diaper changed? Do they remain in it all day? If it’s cold outside and the child declines to wear a jacket, do you let them play in a singlet in two degrees? Someone must take on the role of adult or caregiver!” commented another.
Ultimately, the decision regarding how to approach diaper changing rests with the parents. If you wish to implement this method with your child, feel free to do so. However, it is important to note that this is not a requirement or a legal obligation. Opting not to use this strategy does not reflect on your capabilities as a parent. As always, prioritize what you believe is in the best interest of your child.