When I do not buy something my child wants, they lie on the shop floor and cry. What can I do while also dealing with other people's attention?

In the moment, prioritize safety over explanations or promises. Move away from shelves and foot traffic if possible, and say briefly, “You really wanted it. We are not buying it today.” Save further discussion until your child is calm. Before future trips, show what you plan to buy, give your child one small job, or keep the visit short. If your child regularly hurts themselves or others, or shopping and other necessary outings have become almost impossible, share specific examples with a local child-development or mental-health professional.