“Only our mother would give us a gift on a day we’re supposed to honor her!” This surprising reaction from my kids perfectly encapsulates why I started a unique Mother’s Day tradition: giving gifts to them.
It wasn’t my original idea, but it resonated deeply when a friend shared her perspective. She explained that she gifts her children on Mother’s Day “because, if it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t have the privilege to be called mom.” This simple yet profound statement shifted my understanding of Mother’s Day.
Why I Give Mother’s Day Gifts to My Children
Her words truly resonated with me. It sparked a realization that Mother’s Day isn’t just about being honored, but also an opportunity to express gratitude for the incredible gift of motherhood itself. It’s a moment to acknowledge the children who have given us this cherished role. Instead of solely focusing on receiving, I saw it as a chance to celebrate them – the very reason I am a mother. It’s about recognizing the immense privilege of being chosen by God to raise these unique individuals.
Let’s be honest, one day a year hardly seems sufficient to acknowledge everything mothers do, day in and day out. So, shifting some of the focus to honoring my children on Mother’s Day didn’t diminish my own appreciation; it amplified it.
Little did I know the profound effect this simple decision would have on my children and our family dynamic.
The Unexpectedly Heartwarming Effect on My Kids
Initially, my kids were taken aback. Our Mother’s Day tradition involved church, brunch, and them showering me with heartfelt cards and thoughtful gifts for Mother’s Day. The first year I decided to give them gifts, I interrupted the usual flow just as they were about to present their gifts to me. “Wait a moment,” I said, “Before we begin, I have a little something for you both.”
Their confused expressions were priceless. They had just finished playfully complaining about having to give me gifts! Once I had their attention, I explained how incredibly blessed I felt that God had entrusted me to be their mother. I emphasized that without them, I wouldn’t experience the immeasurable joy of motherhood. Then, I handed them their Mother’s Day gifts.
For them, it seemed like a sweet, albeit unusual, gesture. However, for me, it was the beginning of a powerful teachable moment, revealing deeper spiritual insights about gratitude and selfless love. And as we always seek in our family, these moments are invaluable for growth and connection.
Mother’s Day: A Powerful Teachable Moment in Gratitude
Observing my children’s reactions, I realized the impact of this gesture extended far beyond a simple gift exchange. Their initial confusion – “Mother’s Day is for you to get gifts!” – highlighted a common perception: holidays are about receiving.
By shifting the emphasis to the act of giving and expressing gratitude for them, I aimed to teach them that true joy lies in selflessness, not in material possessions. It wasn’t about the Mother’s Day gift itself, but the intention and love behind it.
My hope is that this lesson in selfless giving will resonate as they grow into husbands, fathers, wives, and mothers themselves. Demonstrating kindness and gratitude towards their own families will be a beautiful legacy of this Mother’s Day tradition.
Mother’s Day Gift Ideas for Children: Keeping it Simple and Meaningful
If you’re inspired to honor your children with a gift for Mother’s Day, I encourage you to keep it simple and heartfelt. Remember, this is a gesture to acknowledge them as the reason you hold the cherished title of “Mom.” The best gifts for Mother’s Day to give your children don’t need to be extravagant.
The first year, I opted for $5 Starbucks gift cards, each adorned with a Mother’s Day gift tag that read: “You give me the privilege to be mom!” They were genuinely thrilled, mostly because it was so unexpected and showed appreciation in a unique way.
Mother’s Day Gift Tags are readily available in online resources and can add a personal touch to any small gift.
Whether your children are toddlers, teenagers, or young adults, here are some gift ideas for Mother’s Day tailored to different age groups:
Gift Ideas for Toddlers: Simple Joys
- Coloring Book with Crayons: A classic that encourages creativity.
- Bubbles: Always a source of delight for young children.
- Favorite Candy or Special Treat: A small indulgence they’ll love.
- Pajamas or Slippers: Cozy comfort for bedtime routines.
- Mother And Son Prayer Journal: A journal to connect and nurture faith together (for young boys).
- Bible Belles: Books that introduce inspiring women from the Bible (for young girls).
Gift Ideas for Teens & Young Adults: Practical and Fun
- A Board Game for the Family: Encourage quality time and connection.
- Gift Cards: Versatile options like movie tickets, gas cards, Starbucks, Amazon, or fast food.
- Picture Frame with Photo of You and Them: A sentimental keepsake.
- Favorite Candy or Treat: A simple pleasure they still appreciate.
- Traveling Utensils: Practical and eco-friendly for on-the-go meals.
- Adulting Budget Binder: A helpful tool for managing finances as they gain independence.
Gift Ideas for Adult Children: Meaningful Connections
- Family Budget Binder: Practical support for their own households.
- The Game Ledger: For documenting fun family game nights.
- Board Games: Encourage continued family connection and fun.
- Bible Color Code Worksheets: Resources for spiritual growth, paired with Highlighters!
- Coffee Date (Breakfast or Lunch): Quality time and conversation are priceless gifts for Mother’s Day for adult children.
If you have adult children who are also raising families, consider Mother’s Day gifts that support them in their parenting journey, such as helpful parenting books or resources.
In Closing: Celebrating Motherhood in Full Circle
My greatest joy in life is being a mother to my children. This Mother’s Day, I eagerly anticipate honoring them, just as they look forward to honoring me. It’s a beautiful exchange of love and gratitude that strengthens our family bonds.
How will you honor your children this Mother’s Day? Share your ideas in the comments below – I’m always seeking new ways to bless my kids, especially on this special day!
Free Mother’s Day Gift Tags
P.S. Don’t forget to visit our FREE COMMUNITY LIBRARY to download and print your complimentary Mother’s Day Gift Tags For Kids today!
~ Timberley Gray
