There has been a lot of focus on the need to teach older children about consent. But parents should not wait until kids are teenagers to talk about appropriate touching or how everyone has the right to say what happens to their body.

In fact, the earlier parents talk about this with their kids, the better.

You can start teaching little ones about consent even before they can talk. Here’s how you can do this during everyday care.
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At the start of a nappy change, ensure your child knows what is happening. Get down to their level and say, “you need a nappy change” and then pause so they can take this in.

Then you can say, “do you want to walk/crawl with me to the change table, or would you like me to carry you?”

Observe their facial expressions and body language to check if they understand what is happening. Aim to be positive, gentle and responsive to your child.