I know what you are going through, I had a 6 year old that is like that, the point about the tiredness, make sure you never attempt the mall when they are tired, or hunger, not a good combo. taking away things that she adores for bad behavior and rewarding her with the things she adores when she shows good behavior is a good starting point. I try and head my son off before he gets to the explosive stage. Children at that age don't adapt well to changes. I try and prepare him well ahead of time for things like mealtimes, tv time. etc...