Consent Starts in Childhood: Why Honoring Your Child's Boundaries Matters

Consent Starts in Childhood

Have you ever tried to pet a cat and gotten swatted away? Most cats are experts in body autonomy. They give you clear signals about when they're open to connection—and when they’d prefer to be left alone. What if we applied the same respect to our children, even when they’re still babies?

Dad tickling his son, but his son does not appear engaged with him and enjoying it.

Let’s take something as seemingly innocent as tickling.

Tickling your baby and hearing them giggle is pure joy. But what happens when the giggles fade, they stop making eye contact, or they squirm away? These are your child’s cues—clear indicators that their body is saying, “I’m done.”

If we continue the tickling game despite these cues, their body may enter a stress response—fight, flight, freeze, fawn, or flop. These reactions aren’t behavioral choices; they are brain-based responses driven by the amygdala, the part of the brain that helps us detect and respond to threat. It's not personal—it's neurological.

When you pause, notice, and respect your child’s boundaries, you show them that they are safe and heard. This builds trust. This deepens your connection. This is the foundation of long-term emotional resilience.

And consent isn’t just about tickling.

Consent is about honoring your child's signals all day, everyday.

It’s about honoring your child’s signals in every interaction involving their body—feeding, grooming, hygiene, cuddling, even play. When we acknowledge their autonomy, we empower them to grow into confident, respectful, self-aware adults who can advocate for themselves and respect others in return.

But what if they resist necessary routines?

If your child is consistently distressed about grooming, bathing, hair brushing, or eating, this may be more than typical resistance. These signs often point to sensory processing differences—and they won’t just “grow out of it.” In fact, ignoring these signs can make the problem worse.

The good news? You’re not alone.

Our team includes therapists trained in sensory processing and early childhood development. We’re here to help you understand your child’s behaviors, support their unique needs, and make everyday routines feel more doable—for everyone.

👉 Trust their cues. Respect their no. Advocate when they struggle.That’s how we raise kids who know they matter.

What do you think about our post: Consent Starts in Childhood: Why Honoring Your Child's Boundaries Matters? Let us know in the comments!

Feeling Overwhelmed? Needing Support? You’re Not Alone

We believe parents should feel empowered, not overwhelmed. If you’ve got questions or want to learn more:

• Leave a comment—we’d love to hear from you!

• Join our Facebook Subscribers Group for just $0.99/month to access expert Q&As and exclusive content

• Follow us on Instagram for helpful tips and real-life examples

• Check out our YouTube channel for bite-sized videos packed with practical strategies and longer tutorials where we provide you important information

  
  

And remember, early support isn’t just intervention—it’s prevention, empowerment, and connection. And it’s never too early to be curious, ask questions, and seek guidance. We’re here for you, every step of the way. 🍼👣✨

With heart,

The NewDay Child Coaching Team

Rachel Lynn: Communication and Swallowing/Feeding Guide 🩷

Amber Michelle: Physical Development Guide 💚

Amanda Rae: Fine Motor, Sensorimotor, Sensory/Feeding Guide 💛

"Interweaving Disciplines and Knowledge for the Benefit of All™"

 “Learn From Us and With Us™️”