Salaam alaykum,

I have a daughter aged 2.5yrs at a nursery here in England. Can a male teacher change her nappy and clean her or is there an Islamic ruling against it? Please give reference if available.

Jazakummullah khair

A non Muslim male teacher at my little girl's nursery may be required to change her nappy. I object even though she's only 2.5yrs. Is there a Hadith that I can use to explain this fully?

Waslam Danbirni

I am not a scholar but have looked at this problem recently and gathered opinions of people from a cultural and religious points of view.I have come to a conclusion that it is wrong for a male teacher to change and clean a female baby/ toddler.I am sure most scholars would agree with me on this point.In islam this is a dignified and respectable way to handle and care for a little individual.A parent has a right over his or her children and to put a request of this nature to the nursery / teacher concerned and is not unreasonable.The request should be granted and repected and is no different from a female patient requesting a female doctor and or midwife.This kind of request is usually granted and respected.The request is everyone's right and if not granted with good reason then it can be regarded as discrimination with respect to culture and religion.The only time I believe a male teacher should be allowed to change and clean a female baby toddler is when there is absolutely no female available.Usually in such settings the ratio of female teachers is far greater than male teachers and therefore the above problem should not arise.
I hope the above has been useful and has not offended any one.
Jzk