"Dr Nicole Downs and Dr Katherine Bussey, lecturers in Early Childhood at Deakin University in Australia, maintain that parents should not wait until their kids are teenagers to talk about appropriate touching. Instead, consent should be a 'normal, everyday part of life' that teaches babies what is acceptable when it comes to their bodies. 'You can start teaching little ones about consent before they even talk', the scientists explained in an article for The Conversation."
"To initiate a nappy change, parents should ensure their child knows what is happening, the scientists claim. 'Get down to their level and say, "you need a nappy change" and then pause so they can take this in,' they advised. 'Then you can say, 'do you want to walk/crawl with me to the change table, or would you like me to carry you?' Parents should observe their facial expressions and body language to check that they understand what is happening, they added."
Parents are encouraged to use nappy changes as teaching moments to introduce consent and bodily autonomy from infancy. Caregivers should explain the nappy change, get down to the child's level, pause to let the child process, and offer choices such as walking or being carried to the change table. Parents should observe facial expressions and body language to assess understanding. Avoid distracting children during intimate care so they notice being touched. Involve children in the interaction by asking simple requests and encouraging them to participate. Early, routine consent education helps teach what touching is acceptable and how bodies work.
Read at Mail Online
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