An ‘expert’ has sparked a lengthy debate after saying that parents should ask their babies for permission first before changing their diapers.

Deanne Carson, a self-proclaimed speaker, educator, and author, appeared on ABC and shared her insights on fostering a culture of consent in infancy.

As newborns can’t verbally respond, she explained the importance of non-verbal communication.

“We work with children from three years old. We work with parents from birth,” Carson said, to which a reporter asked: “From birth?”

Carson then said: “Yes, just about how to set up a culture of consent in their homes so ‘I’m going to change your nappy now, is that OK?’”

The ‘expert’ acknowledged that newborns can’t verbally respond but she explained the importance of waiting for eye contact and non-verbal cues as it allows parents to let their babies know that their reactions have value.

Carson’s opinion raised eyebrows on social media, with many asking why parents or guardians have to ask for permission from a newborn who doesn’t know what was going on.

“And what happens when baby says no? Do it anyway? Whoa now there is the real problem,” one person asked.

“For sanity’s sake – if a baby’s nappy needs changing, you change it. You are the adult & in charge of the baby – the baby isn’t in charge of you. Although it feels like it sometimes,” another wrote.

“Either she has never wrestled a toddler during a change or worse, she just left hers in a s****y nappy until it was ready to consent,” a third said.

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