I feel torn. My 9 year old has been throwing tantrums because he wants video games for Christmas, but I’m just not ready to go down that road yet. It feels like giving in would open a door I can’t close, but his outbursts are wearing me down. Am I being too strict, or is this just a phase I need to hold firm through?
you’re definitely not alone. My daughter is 11 now, and last year it was a similar story with a tablet. I held my ground, and honestly, she moved on after Christmas. It’s so hard in the moment, but kids are resilient. Stick to your gut, it’s okay to say no!
You got this, Mama! 
I feel this in my soul. My 9 year old threw a full-on meltdown last week because I said no to a gaming subscription. The constant pressure from their peers and ads is SO draining. I don’t have a solution, but I’m right here with you in the trenches.
I’ve been down this road, Angela. My older ones are 14 and 12 now, and I’ll tell you this: kids will always push for more. But the boundaries you set now will serve you well later. With my eldest, we made a rule that tech gifts come with responsibilities, chores, schoolwork, etc. It wasn’t just about the game but teaching balance and earning privileges. If you choose to go for it, have a plan for limits. And if you don’t, trust your instincts, they’re usually spot on.
Hang in there! This phase will pass. Maybe it’s a chance to have a conversation about what Christmas is really about, family, giving, and togetherness. You might be surprised how kids respond when you involve them in setting limits together. It could turn into a bonding moment for you both.
Thank you everyone for your advice and support. It’s so helpful to hear I’m not alone in this struggle! I like the idea of finding an alternative gift that feels like a compromise. I might look into something STEM, related or maybe an outdoor activity we can do together. The reminder about boundaries and balance really hit home, I’ll definitely keep that in mind!
We went through this exact thing with our son when he was 8. What worked for us was setting boundaries and offering alternatives. Instead of a gaming console, we got him a coding kit (like those STEM robot kits), which let him explore tech in a more creative way. It wasn’t a “no” to video games forever, but a “not yet” with a positive redirection. Now at 12, he thanks us because he’s super into coding and building games himself! Maybe an alternative gift could help?
Lol, I swear my son thinks I’m Santa, Amazon, and the bank all rolled into one! I caved once with a gaming system, and he “beat” it in like a week. Now it just collects dust while he’s back to Legos. Whatever you decide, remember, it’s okay to change course if needed.
I feel like I’m in the same boat but with a different issue, mine is obsessed with sneakers. Do you ever wonder if giving in on one thing stops the tantrums or if it just makes them ask for the next “must-have” item?