So many responses...!

dhacker, you'll have to excuse me if I don't take the time to check out your physical make up and perform and anlysis of what would make you most comfortable! With all of the ruckus of boarding a flight, I infrequently pay attention to the person next to me let alone he who is seated behind me. Don't hold it against me and dent my seatback if I recline whilst in front of you.

Richard and Richard, I agree with both of you in moderation but you both do sound a bit spoiled or selfish. I would politely ask the parent to try to have the child quick kicking my seat. I would NEVER kick or bump someone else's because they push the button and lean back...that is their right as far as I'm concerned. Just like I don't get out of my seat and close the window shade during a movie if someone does not do so on their own accord. It's their option.

Other things I do not do:

1. close other people's vents even when I am cold or don't want air blowing on me.
2. force people to eat the in flight food even though I firmly believe in the value of three square meals each day.
3. lambast people for not covering their mouths when they sneeze or cough on a flight.
4. pull out my mr. microphone and criticize people for putting the little pretzel wrappers in the seatback pockets.
5. put my carryon under the seat I am sitting in (have had that happen and I hate it).
6. inform the flight crew that their carryon luggage should be slightly smaller than a full grown elephant.
7. inform the ticket agent that it is in fact true what they say about how frowning does take more muscles than smiling.