PSYCHOLOGISTS say parents should not reward children with money but instead inculcate a sense of pride in a child as motivation for a job well done.
"Don't always give material rewards. For the young, a hug or kiss and saying 'I am so proud of you. You did great', is enough," said developmental psychologist Dr Albert Liau.

He believes that rewards should be something intangible rather than money or gifts.

Liau, an associate professor in the Department of Psychology at Help University College, suggested that parents could also reward their child through a system of points.

"The child can work towards accumulating enough points to get the item that he wants through the system.

"For example, getting the latest video game may take half a year of extra effort by the child, in addition to doing their existing daily chores."

He reminded parents that it was important to show positive behaviour regarding money as children would imitate them.

For example, if the parents spend most of their free time at shopping malls, then chances are their children will as well.

National Union of the Teaching Profession secretary-general Lok Yim Pheng feels children must learn the value of money.

She said parents should nurture the habit in their children.

"Children must be taught how to spend their money wisely and that begins at home."

She believes that children should not be given too much pocket money as it encourages them to spend on unnecessary things.

They should be given just enough for food and drinks.

Lok urged parents and the community to play their role in guiding the young ones on the right values.