While it’s nice not to have to cook for Mother’s Day, the restaurants are crowded and reservations can be hard to get. We wanted to know what moms really want for Mother’s Day. So we asked moms in all stages of parenting from toddler to young adult and they answered the call! Their answers might surprise you and give you some ideas for the mothers in your life:
Sleeping in
Sleep is often in short supply for moms. This is an especially important one for new mothers who may be severely lacking in this important area. Whether it’s the chance to sleep late in the morning or a well deserved afternoon nap, you’ll be the hero if you can make this one happen!
A Squeaky Clean Home
What could be more luxurious than a clean home? Whether you put in the elbow grease yourself or hire a company or cleaning person, mom will appreciate not having to lift a finger on her special day.
Nix the Arguments
It’s always a great day to be attentive to our words and try not to argue. But it’s especially appreciated on mother’s day! Moms want their children to try particularly hard to get along on their special day.
Time Together
The most requested gift of all was time with their children. “No sass, no stuff. Just having my kids near me.” requested Teresa Nounou who lives just west of Houston, Texas. There are many ways to consider spending that time together:
Give mom the gift of a mother/child manicure and/or pedicure. Especially if mom usually does her own nails, this could be a special splurge.
Spend time in nature. May is perfect for spending time outdoors. It’s warmed up enough to enjoy the weather without the stifling heat we’ll experience later on this summer. Maybe mom would enjoy a hike. Or she might enjoy a picnic or bike ride.
Do some yoga together at a yoga studio. Or if mom is more of a homebody, try hiring a private instructor to work out together with all the comforts of home.
Volunteer together. Many nonprofits have opportunities to volunteer with little or no experience necessary.
Visit a museum together!
Most moms said they did not want to cook a regular dinner for mother’s day, but what about a cooking class? Kitchen stores often have classes available.
Time Alone
Alternately some moms just want a little time at home alone on mother’s day. It might just be time to run those errands and leave the house with the kids for a little while, leaving mom to indulge herself in some quiet time. Aliza Garetz of Houston, Texas says she likes it when her husband takes her daughter out and about and allows her to have a quiet day by herself at home.
Or Both!
Heather Long from Appleton, Wisconsin wants time to spend with her children but would also enjoy a massage by herself. What Mom wouldn’t?
Flowers
The old standby is still a favorite with many moms. No need to spend a fortune if mom is close by. Many grocery stores have a great selection for a reasonable price. Of course there are always the flower shops. Or have flowers delivered for something extra special.
When it comes to Mother’s Day, it’s really true that it’s the thought that counts. Most mothers just wanted to know that they are appreciated and loved.