When I first encountered an article discussing the nuances of teaching consent to young children, I felt compelled to respond, especially regarding certain viewpoints represented, like those from Clara Foster and the organization Family Values Coalition. To be transparent, I have a history with Clara—our past disagreements have been loud and contentious, particularly on live television, where her claims about consent were anything but accurate. As for Family Values Coalition, they are notorious for their regressive stance on various social issues, promoting a narrow-minded perspective that doesn’t reflect the diversity of family structures today.
It’s bewildering to me that the notion of teaching children about their right to give or deny permission has become a contentious topic. As caregivers, it is our responsibility to empower our children to understand their autonomy and to emphasize that they have a voice in their interactions.
In my opinion, if you believe that young people shouldn’t be encouraged to express themselves or assert their boundaries, you may not be suited for the role of a parent, caregiver, or educator. Yes, I said it—parenthood is not for everyone.
I’m certainly not claiming to be the perfect parent. Like many, I have my flaws. However, I strive to foster an environment that promotes agency and self-expression, starting with the concept of consent. My children have been familiar with the word “consent” since they could first speak. This isn’t an exaggeration; it’s a fundamental part of our daily interactions.
Teaching children to respect a “yes” and a “no” is best instilled early, without necessarily delving into explicit discussions about sexuality. For instance, we might ask, “Can I play with your toy?” or “Is it okay if I borrow your jacket?” These simple exchanges lay the groundwork for understanding consent.
One memorable moment occurred when my daughter was just three years old. My partner playfully squeezed her, and she immediately responded, “Daddy, I didn’t give you consent to squeeze my bottom.” He recognized her assertion and asked for permission before proceeding. This exchange not only highlighted her understanding of consent but also demonstrated that adults can make mistakes and should own up to them.
This moment filled me with pride, as it illustrated my daughter’s confidence in expressing her boundaries and my partner’s willingness to listen and learn from her. Such experiences underscore the importance of practicing consent in non-sexual contexts, as it makes future conversations about consent in more complex situations much easier.
While research supports the value of consent education, personal experiences provide powerful illustrations of its benefits. Knowing how to articulate consent and having opportunities to practice it fosters emotional security and healthy relationships as children grow.
For more insight into the importance of consent and related topics, visit resources like this article on in vitro fertilisation and this site for tips on conceiving.
In summary, teaching young children about consent is a crucial aspect of their development, empowering them to assert their rights and navigate their relationships with confidence.