'Spicy Takes' on Holidays with Family: 'Non-Negotiable'

A TikTok creator is urging parents to set clear, “non-negotiable” boundaries with family members during the holidays, arguing that kids shouldn’t be expected to maintain relationships with adults. In a video posted by @cayleyxo, which has received more than 200,000 likes, she says her children are not responsible for calling, talking, or getting to know relatives—adding that without effort, extended family becomes a “stranger.” She also emphasizes that her children sleep in their own beds on Christmas Eve and wake up at home on Christmas morning. She rejects out-of-state travel unless relatives contribute to costs, and she insists on consent-based boundaries around physical affection, stating she won’t force hugs or kisses.