As a parent, I find it essential to instill the concept of consent in my 3-year-old daughter from an early age. I recently came across a piece discussing the debate surrounding teaching consent to young children, and it sparked a strong reaction in me. Some of the individuals and organizations mentioned in the article, such as a controversial figure and a group known for promoting a narrow-minded agenda, really made me question their understanding of parenting.
To be frank, I don’t understand why teaching our children about their ability to give or deny permission would ever be a contentious issue. It’s our responsibility as caregivers to empower our kids, teaching them that they have a voice and autonomy over their bodies.
In my opinion, if someone doesn’t see the importance of fostering a child’s voice, they probably shouldn’t be in a parenting, teaching, or mentoring role. That might sound blunt, but I believe it’s true.
I’m not claiming to be the perfect parent—far from it! However, I do make a concerted effort to promote my child’s agency and voice. My daughter has known the concept of “consent” since she began speaking, and I believe that’s vital.
It’s much easier to teach young kids about respecting a “yes” and a “no” when the conversations aren’t explicitly sexual. You can start by asking simple questions: “Can I borrow your toy?” or “May I give you a hug?” This lays the groundwork for a respectful understanding of consent before any discussions about sex come into play.
I have a story to illustrate this point. One day, when my daughter was just 3 years old, my partner playfully squeezed her shoulder. She quickly turned around and said, “Daddy, I didn’t give you consent for that.” He immediately acknowledged her words and asked if he could squeeze her shoulder instead. She responded with a giggle and a “yes.”
This moment filled me with pride. My daughter had the confidence to assert herself, and my partner showed the humility to admit his mistake. It was a wonderful learning experience for both of them, demonstrating that even adults can make errors and learn from them.
While research supports the benefits of consent-based education, personal stories also highlight its importance. When children practice the language of consent early on, they gain emotional and relational advantages as they grow.
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In summary, teaching consent to young children is not just about preparing them for the future. It’s about empowering them in the present, ensuring they understand their rights over their bodies, and fostering respectful interactions from a young age.