Extrinsic Motivation is very much ALIVE

Jaina saw mummy writing English and Chinese words on some cards and asked what were those cards for.

Mummy: So we can revise the English and Chinese words you have learnt.

Jaina: But I don't wanna read any words! I don't like Chinese words!!

Mummy explained that she will get a star for every pair of English & Chinese words right. And with enough stars, she can redeem small gifts and eventually, a trip to Disneyland.

Instantly, she asked if we can practice all the words before I test her!!

Amazing change of attitude isn't it? Who said extrinsic motivation is old news?!!? Have you not met Exhibit A - Jaina Chak?

Disneyland Heaven

There was an advertisement of HK Disneyland shown on TV that day and Jaina stood rooted watching the whole ad. When it finished, she turned to me and asked in a voice like she was asking about heaven,"What is that, mummy?"

Mummy: It's Disneyland.

Jaina (still with 'heavenly' tone): Can we go there?

Mummy: No. We can't afford it. Unless we save money for it.

Jaina (quiet for a moment): Oh I know!! We can save the money we give to the poor!!!

Mummy fainted and fell off chair!

Watch that Mouth!

Shannon walked over to Yeye that night after dinner and loudly said,"Yeye! Kern-ni-nah! Kern-ni-nah!"

Yeye: What are you saying? What you want?

Shannon: Yeye!! Kern-ni-nah! Kern-ni-nah!

Yeye: What!?!?!

Shannon gave up and walked into the kitchen.

She emerged once again with a bottle of Ribena in her arms.

She is very clear on her intent, need to work on her articulation though... :P