Everyone loves to feel appreciated. With Mother’s Day coming up next Sunday, it’s a great time to think of how you might show the moms in your life what they mean to you. We offer five simple ideas to celebrate and care for the woman who cares for everyone.
1. Remember to have a card ready.
You could absolutely buy a Mother’s Day card; there are plenty of great ones out there. Another option (that is free and will likely be treasured forever) is to have your children make a card. Be sure to write the date inside! Some quick ideas for children of all ages:
Infants - Paint those chubby little hands and/or feet to make a print on the front of the card. On the inside you could write a few reasons why you think she’s great, or use one of these beautiful poems:
“Home” by Carl Sandburg
Here is a thing my heart wishes the world had more of:
I heard it in the air of one night when I listened
To a mother singing softly to a child restless and angry in the darkness.
“Mother, A Cradle to Hold Me” by Maya Angelou
It is true
I was created in you.
It is also true
That you were created for me.
It owned your voice.
It was shaped and tuned to soothe me.
Your arms were molded
Into a cradle to hold me, to rock me.
The scent of your body was the air
Perfumed for me to breathe.
Full poem here: https://adoption-beyond.org/mother-a-cradle-to-hold-me-by-maya-angelou/
Toddlers - Let them draw a picture on the cover, then interview them! Ask them fun questions and record their answers inside the card. A toddler’s perspective of the world is sure to make their mother laugh (and perhaps melt her heart). Some ideas:
What is your mom’s name?
What is your favorite thing about mom?
What is mom’s favorite thing to do?
What is mom’s favorite food?
How do you know mom loves you?
Preschoolers - Whether they like to draw or paint, let young kids decorate the card themselves. On the inside, have them tell you three reasons they love their mom for you to write down. If they have started learning to write their own name, have them sign the card.
Elementary-aged children and older children - Encourage your old kids to write a letter to their mom. If they seem hesitant, it’s okay to brainstorm ideas with them. Ask them to think about what’s special about their mom, what they love about her, or a time she did something really nice for them. If they love art, they can find a special way to incorporate that, too.
2. Take your time and enjoy brunch.
You have two options here: go out to eat or make a meal at home. Think about what she would love best! If you choose the former, think ahead: many popular brunch spots require reservations on Mother’s Day.
If you’d like to tackle making brunch at home, you can make it special without it being complicated. Some ideas:
Place fresh flowers and a couple candles on the table.
Make her a fun drink. Think herbal tea, flavored coffee, or a mimosa!
Try a new recipe. This one for crepes is sure to be a hit: https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/16383/basic-crepes/
Have the kids help! They can assist you in cooking, setting the table, serving Mom, or even cleaning up afterward.
3. Get some fresh air together.
Hopefully the weather will cooperate and you can enjoy a gorgeous spring day together. Consider a spot near your home that will be low-key and fun for everyone. Would she enjoy a stroll in the park? A short hike? A visit to a nature preserve?
To make the experience extra-special, make sure to do all the planning and prep work. It’s not easy getting young children out of the house! Gather water bottles, diaper bags, and snacks. Get the children’s shoes on, buckle them into their car seats, and do whatever else you can to give her a minute or two extra with that cup of coffee. These gestures will not go unnoticed!
4. Pamper her.
We would like to re-emphasize that this does not need to be complicated. Just like with brunch, you have two options: outsourcing or doing it yourself.
Does the mom in your life enjoy spending time at spas, getting manicures, or treating herself to a massage? If so feel free to book her an appointment or even give her a gift certificate to her favorite spot.
Is she the type of mom who never seems to have time for herself? If so, make sure to build some into the day. Some simple ideas:
Draw her a bubble bath.
Make her a face mask! Here are some recipes that use ingredients you’re very likely to have in your kitchen already: https://www.elle.com/uk/beauty/skin/articles/a38190/homemade-diy-face-mask-recipes/
Depending on their ages, some children would do a great job painting their mom’s nails, giving her a shoulder rub, or even just brushing her hair.
5. Give her something sweet.
One thing that is sure to bring a smile to her face? A sweet treat! For most moms, you can’t go wrong with chocolate, but think about her individual tastes. Whether she’s into cheesecake, candy, croissants, or ice cream, make sure you have some on hand. As with many of the other ideas we have mentioned, this special Mother’s Day dessert can be store-bought or homemade.
Mothers give so much because they love their families. No matter how you decide to celebrate, she is sure to appreciate the time, effort, and love you shower her with. Enjoy!