[preciousjeni]

I have most definitely walked up to a screaming child and adult(s) and asked the child directly, "Are you ok?" It's never been an abduction and the children are often embarrassed to have attracted that much attention.

The parents do get angry (because they're embarrassed I'm sure) until I explain to them why I do it. Then, USUALLY, they're ok.

I don't do it with every screaming child, by any means. But, when something doesn't seem right, I check.

I would really encourage everyone to do this (as long as your own safety isn't in jeopardy!!) I reserve 911 calls for serious emergencies.