I understand what you are saying about politness and at a young age nothing they are not doing it delibratly. On the otherhand as they get older a 'let them sort it out themselves attitude' doesn't always work. When my DD was always beeing hit, scratched, pushed, hair pulled, by other kids I would much prefer the mother to step in and let the child know thier behaviour was inappropriate. How else do they learn it.

I have been out in public and kids have just walked up to my DD and pushed her over!! and the parents have just said 'oh they are just being kids'. IMO it is not acceptable to let your child hurt another child and just ignore it.

Sorry, i know its not exactly what you were talking about, but its just something that upsets me when I see it.