Parents’ Poll: How You Handle Your Kids’ Shopping Meltdowns

We've all been there at one time or another—embarrassed by our child wailing in a restaurant or having a full-blown tantrum in a supermarket aisle.

Results of the poll:

What generally happens when your kids want items you haven't planned to buy?
52% We negotiate.
42% I say, "No way."
6% I relent.
- It depends on the item.
- We talk about using their allowance or waiting to get it as a special birthday treat.
- I listen to their explanation and if there's a good reason I'll buy the item.
- Begging and whining have never worked. But giving children the knowledge that they are heard and allowing their choices to be part of the household has really helped my family.
- We don't buy it if it's not on the shopping list.
- If they've behaved well in the store, I'll sometimes get it at the end of our shopping as a reward.

If your child has a tantrum in a store or other public place, what helps?

What you said:

Prevention
- I've learned not to take my son shopping if it's naptime or if he hasn't taken his nap.
- Taking along a toy, crayons, or a small snack helps.
- I explain expectations before and let them know that if they can't behave, I won't take them next time.
Distraction
- I find a toy in the diaper bag or let him draw on paper if we're in a restaurant.
- We repeat what she tells us so she knows we're listening. That leads to a conversation rather than screaming.
Leaving the store
- We leave the store immediately - or go to the restroom or car. Just getting outside into the fresh air sometimes helps.
- I've abandoned more than one full shopping cart.
- Take her home without getting anything. I've only had to do this once with each child.
Waiting it out
- I fold my arms, and tell him to let me know when he's finished throwing his fit so we can talk about what he's accomplished. He calms down, and it works great.
- My two-year-old is a screamer. People are usually forgiving.
- Stay calm and don't overreact. Keep a sense of humor.