That's a hilarious story but at the same time sad. I hate seeing parents behave badly towards their kids at the store. Especially when they are physically rough. It's an interesting thing because I know really great parents who behave that way in public. Like they are so self-conscious about their kids behavior that the overcompensate by fussing at their kids over every little thing. Your reaction to the woman confronting you was perfect.
I hate seeing it too. I know what you mean, some try to overcompensate as they are self conscious. It's a horrible thing to watch. I hated it even before parenthood!