Never be afraid to ask. If you are told 'no' you will be precisely where you were before you asked. You have absolutely nothing to lose. A wise man learns to avoid that which causes dissatisfaction, not that which might cause it. When you yourself are in a position to say yes or no to others, be aware of your own attitudes.
Many parents say no to their children out of habit, a conditioned response.
Sometimes for other reason. That is the way slaves were spoken to. Having respect for the young does not mean giving up discipline. Observe nature and see how a lioness will cuff her cubs in order to train them. A child needs a cuff also, in order to learn the parameters of social behaviour.