11/25/2025
Many people laugh at this idea, from a westernized traditional perspective (how many of us were raised) it seems bonkers! Ask my baby? They can’t talk. In reality the goal is creating this respect between caregiver and child that continues on as they get older and learn to advocate for their own autonomy. Communicating to a toddler to help them, change them, pick them up or take them away from something dangerous fosters the relationship. Grabbing a child away quickly from something that isn’t dangerous, but because they aren’t ‘listening’ offers aggression, confusion and this fast paced environment where they struggle to learn. Slowing down, using words to communicate what is happening and what we want to introduce sets the tone for their future behavior.
And for those who believe Montessori approach isn’t their jam, this concept likely isn’t either but to each their own ❤️
Experts suggest that even babies can benefit from a sense of autonomy, starting with small everyday interactions like diaper changes. Asking a baby for “consent” is not about giving them full choice but about acknowledging their body and signals.
Before changing a diaper, parents can speak gently, make eye contact, and notice the baby’s reactions. This teaches babies that their feelings and comfort matter, helping them develop a sense of agency and trust. Research shows that even simple acts of respect in early life can influence emotional regulation, attachment, and confidence later on.
Consent practices with infants can be as simple as offering a choice between two wipes, explaining what you are doing, or giving them a moment to respond. These small steps show babies that their bodies are respected and that their reactions are valid.
In the long term, this approach fosters emotional intelligence, empathy, and secure attachment. Parents modeling respect, patience, and observation from day one can set the foundation for children who understand boundaries and develop healthy social and emotional skills.