yes the guy was totally out of line for hitting a child, and should be dealt with, but i can totally sympathise with his feelings. i've been in public wher there was a screaming out of control child and parents NEED to take charge, they're not doing the child any favors by letting them get away with that behavior. even at 2 yrs old a child can learn when to keep quiet, give them some credit, kids at 2 are very trainable. this same thing happened to me, kids throw a fit in the store, next thing you know they're standing at the checkout with a pile of toys and candy in order to appease them. all i ever had to say to my girls is "do you wanna go to the bathroom for a spank?" and i only had to spank their bum once or twice and they understood that when you're in a public place, you better be on your best behaviour, do your children a favor and discipline to the proper degree to raise healthy respectful adults.