Broke on Mother's Day? Here Are 8 Sweet and Thoughtful Gestures To Show Mom You Care
It's the Thought That Counts
When it comes to Mother's Day, thoughtful and sweet gestures are worth their weight in gold (or flowers). Luckily, you don't have to break the bank to show mom how much you love and appreciate her; performing a simple gesture can sometimes hold much greater significance. Here are eight considerate gestures to give your mom on Mother's Day — remember, it's the thought that counts (and maybe a little bit of elbow grease).
Editor's Note: This story was updated in May 2024.
Offer To Do Household Chores
Everyone has a chore they loathe doing, even moms. Help her take a load off by offering to do a household chore or two, such as cleaning the kitchen or bathroom, doing the laundry, or mowing the lawn. This small gesture might not seem like a lot, but it can make a big impact on her day and will show her that you care about her well-being.
Related: Redditors Share Their Worst Mother's Day Gifts
Whip Up a Nice Meal
Preparing a special meal for your mom can make her feel appreciated and loved on Mother's Day — and should be a lot cheaper than going to a restaurant. Breakfast in bed is a classic option that allows her to enjoy a relaxing morning while you take care of the cooking. Consider adding a personal touch, such as her favorite breakfast dish or a handwritten note to make the experience even more special and meaningful.
Related: 30 Amazing 5-Ingredient Recipes
Deep Clean the House
Giving your mom's house a deep clean can be another meaningful way to show your appreciation without having to spend a lot of money. A clean and organized space can help her feel less stressed and more relaxed, especially if you have siblings and the house is always a mess. As someone who has two young nephews, I know the greatest gift I could give my sister is helping her put toys away while she takes a much-deserved nap.
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Consider a Handmade Gift
A thoughtful gift doesn't always have to be expensive. Making something yourself can be a great opportunity to unleash your creativity, while gifting your mom with something that money can't buy. Consider asking a friend to take family photos and turn them into a photo album, scrapbook, painting, or a piece of jewelry. The personal touch of a handmade gift is sure to make her feel loved and appreciated.
Plan a Movie or Game Night at Home
Create a cozy and inviting space for a memorable night in by indulging in her favorite movies or board games. (Nothing says "I love you" like sitting through almost four hours of "Gone with the Wind" — or is that just my mom's favorite movie?) Complete the ambiance with cozy blankets and pillows, and most importantly, don't forget to have her favorite snacks and drinks on hand.
Offer To Babysit
This one may seem simple, but if you have younger siblings, offering to babysit them for a few hours can be a thoughtful and much-appreciated gesture. Taking care of kids can be a handful for any parent, and moms especially can find it exhausting. This simple act can give your mom some much-needed alone time to recharge, pamper herself, or catch up on other tasks.
Plan a Picnic or Hike
Getting outside and enjoying nature can be a great way to bond and spend quality time together. Pack a basket of snacks, grab a blanket, and head to a nearby park or hiking trail for a picnic or hike. Spending time in the great outdoors can be the perfect opportunity to create unique memories, snap beautiful pictures, and share deep, meaningful conversations.
Spend Time With Her
Sometimes the best and most priceless gift you can give your mom is simple: your time and attention. Whether you're going for a walk together, having a cup of tea, or simply catching up on life, spending quality time with your mom can be a meaningful and valuable way to show your love and appreciation.
This article was originally published on Cheapism
