If the child is hungry, feed the child while shopping, because hunger is something that won't wait and an empty tummy will most certainly create an agitated child. Offer a wholesome snack such as fruit, potato salad from the deli section, or a slice of cheese. Snacking is a wonderful redirection tool to occupy an inquisitive child who would otherwise be running through the isles. When the parent makes a point of listening to the needs of the child, the child develops a sense of trust so that when a tantrum does arise the parent can easily calm the child. The willful child trusts the parent, feels respected, and responds more quickly to the voice and the words of the parent.
Meltdowns are less likely to occur because the child feels the parent is listening and responding.
In another instance, it is not uncommon for a child to be unwilling when asked to share a toy. A nurturing parent recognizes that from a child's perspective sharing is often internalized as an invasion. The adult can appreciate how a child feels when required to share by imagining what it would be like to have a visiting friend riffle through a closet, personal effects, or even take the keys to the car and then drive away. To a child, the experience of sharing often equates to a personal violation. Let's show it to him together.