Kids are innocent at heart but sometimes make unintentional mistakes. And it is up to the grown-ups to steer them in the right direction in a kind and gentle manner. Earlier, a little girl brought home a classmate’s jacket and her parents turned it into a teaching moment. They calmly explained to her that since they didn’t pay for it, the jacket didn’t belong to them and made her return it the next day.
Recently, 5-year-old Charlie Scabelund from Arizona called the 911 emergency helpline to order a happy meal. The dispatcher at the other end, Anthony Bonilla, made a follow-up call to his father to make sure everything was alright.
Subsequently, Mesa police officer Randolph (Scott) Valdez paid Charlie a visit as per official protocol and a wellness check. He got a happy meal with him and also educated the kid on the proper use of the helpline in case of real emergencies.
Mail Online quoted his mother saying, “When we found out Charlie had called 911 we were a little shocked and quite embarrassed! I didn’t know he even knew what 911 was!”
Global News further quoted her adding,
“Officer Valdez was really sweet and went over the rules with Charlie about when you’re supposed to call 911. He explained how if he’s busy bringing Happy Meals to kids, he can’t help people who really need him. He couldn’t have been nicer.”
People applauded the officer for handling the situation beautifully and ensuring that Charlie understood his mistake.
Kudos to the officer for not scolding or reprimanding the kid and communicating with him in a positive manner.