Buying children what they request — for birthdays, achievements, or simply because — feels generous. Cumulatively it teaches that wanting equals having, which doesn't translate to adult life and weakens delayed gratification, gratitude, and want regulation.
What to do instead
'No' is a complete sentence. Birthday and Christmas as designated giving times. Working toward things they want via chores or saving. Not buying everything they pick up at shops. Letting them want things without acquiring them.
The generation entering adulthood now reports the highest financial anxiety in decades — partly because they never developed delayed gratification muscle. Saying no often, in caring tone, is one of the gifts parents give.