Are you staring at your tween or teen’s holiday wish list wondering… is it okay to say NO? When every friend seems to be getting the “cool” brands, the pricey sneakers, or the latest tech, it can feel impossible to balance your family’s values with your child’s need to fit in. This episode helps you navigate that emotional middle ground with clarity, compassion, and practical tools you can actually use. Psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour and journalist Reena Ninan unpack why kids get so fixated on certain gifts, what’s really driving the comparisons, and how parents can respond with empathy… without giving in to every request. Drawing on decades of clinical experience and relatable family stories, they offer strategies that help kids feel understood and help parents stay grounded in what matters most. 💡 YOU'LL LEARN: - How to talk with your tween or teen about brand pressure and fitting in - Ways to convey your family values without shaming or shutting your child down - Practical, meaningful ideas for cultivating gratitude without lecturing - Creative compromises that balance joy, connection, and mindful consumption This season can stir up big emotions for kids and for parents. If you’re hoping to raise grounded, grateful young people while still keeping the magic of the holidays alive, this episode offers thoughtful guidance you can trust. Follow and subscribe to our YouTube channel where you can see all our latest video episodes: https://youtube.com/@asklisapodcast And follow us on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn @AskLisaPodcast, @Lisa.Damour, @ReenaNinan. Checkout Dr. Lisa’s website for more resources: https://www.drlisadamour.com/ Ask Lisa is produced by: https://www.goodtroubleproductions.com Episode keywords: holiday gifts, teens, tweens, gratitude, parenting, family values, wish list Podcast keywords: ask lisa podcast, dr lisa damour, reena ninan, psychology, podcast, parenting teens, parenting tweens, teen parenting, tween parenting, parenting tips, parenting advice, positive parenting, parenting podcast, teen behavior, tween challenges, raising tweens, raising teens, parenting hacks, parenting help, family dynamics, kids podcast, mental health, teen mental health, attachment styles, emotional intelligence