Someone Else's Child (a bit long, sorry)

[Gemini]

Thanks, everyone, for your thoughtful replies!!!!! Very much appreciated. I'm divided now over talking to the parents, but if it looks like they're home tomorrow I may knock on the door and try to present it as a safety issue. I agree that I need to watch my words re: the biting issue, as even mentioning the risk (which is a risk with any dog, realistically, if you provoke it enough) can put me at a disadvantage as somehow admitting that my dogs are vicious. This is California. People live for legal loopholes.  

I did consider trying to show the boy how to approach the dogs properly, minus the scooter, but I'm afraid I just can't trust him to listen. He seems aggressive and a bit "off", if you know what I mean. And when I don't feel comfortable with someone, I usually err on the side of caution. My dogs, my prerogative.

Mr. Gemini was just out with the dogs this a.m. but didn't see the boy or the scooter. I will also ask our dog walker if she's met this kid before. If I do go knock on the door, I'd like someone else to be with me so I have a witness and also for  back-up if the parents go ballistic on me.

Thanks again for all your responses and input. It really meant a lot to hear the support and advice. I'll let you know how it turns out.

[Slartibartfast]

I have to wonder whether this boy is autistic or has some other social/developmental difficulty - it would explain why he doesn't understand "no" from your cues.  Additionally, if he has learning or developmental problems at home, that might also explain why he is playing alone in the neighborhood (instead of with other children) and possibly why his parents aren't keeping that close an eye on him - I'm not saying all parents of developmentally challenged children are neglectful, but when someone would be a poor parent anyway, it tends to turn out worse if the kid is also developmentally challenged :-|

If you're not comfortable talking to the adults in person, maybe leave a note?

[MineralDiva]

I wouldn't leave a note.  That gives them all the information they need about "you," but no information to you about them...namely their faces and reactions.  I can just envision, when you least expect it as you're walking one day....some crazy people getting in your face, and you have no idea who they are.