What is more important in raising up a child: reward or punishment? Both solutions are used by parents but it is definitely important to be aware of pros as well as cons of these two ways of upbringing. To my mind, the punishment is a little bit dangerous solution. Child after being punished may come to the conclusion that parents do not love him and treat him like an enemy. This is the first step to sadness and discouragement, both for the child and for his parents. On the other hand, with no punishment, the child could be too lazy and naughty. The alternative solution is reward, which has also advantages and disadvantages. The often rewarded child is cheerful and happy, but there is a risk that he can behave properly only on account of a gift or something delicious to eat. It may lead to acting in his own interest. Taking everything into account, the punishment is better than the reward but it is difficult to compare each other. Parents should remember that irrespective of their choice, child must know where actually is the thin border between good and evil. Because of that, parents have to behave consequently, according to their settled way of upbringing. In addition, everybody must remember, that the straight talk is far more important than even the new ‘best’ methods of raising a child.