The most meaningful gifts from my sons are ones I knew they did themselves – thought of, paid for, or created. This means inexpensive gifts and simple ones. My home office is a shrine of Mother’s Days, birthdays and Christmases years gone by. FYI, None of these long-time displayed items likely cost my sons more than $5.
This article is FOR kids of all ages, so Mom – hand your phone or tablet to your kid(s) now.
I’ve repeatedly emphasized to my boys that the old clique “It’s the thought that matters” is complete truth: simple gifts mean the most. Things like experiences together, activities they can do themselves or trinkets from their heart truly show that they thought of me. Even now that they are older, it is just time or some thoughtful item that matters most.
Ten Inexpensive Gifts for Mother’s Day 2023
No matter your age, you can spoil mom, grandma, or any other special mother figure easily. It doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive to show her how much she means to you.
Take Her to Movies – at Home
Whisk her away “to the movies!” Go big… makes a special seat for her, dim the lights, get the popcorn popping. Line up Mom’s favorite movie/show or simply give her exclusive rights to the remote for the night. Give her something to prop her feet up on and keep a steady supply of tea or hot chocolate. Make sure she knows that you will clean up afterwards!
No Fighting
This is THE BEST – just agree to stop all bickering for the day: with siblings, her, or Dad. Yes, the whole day! Bite your tongue, sit on your hands – do whatever you must … but don’t fight! Mom will be delighted, or shocked. Either way, this gift will be appreciated.
Treasure Trail or Picnic
Take your mom for a walk. As you go, pick up little treasures along the way – tiny wildflowers, pretty stones. As you present each gift to her, tell her something that you appreciate about her. You can also add in a simple picnic with snacks and a drink. Lie on your backs and find shapes in the clouds. Don’t rush. Just enjoy the gift of being together. It’s really all she wants.
Memory Journal
Fill a notebook with your favorite memories. Think back as far as you can and no memory that you feel is special is “too small.” Just notes about your recollections will mean the world to her.
Meal Cooked by You
So, you can’t win MasterChef Junior – don’t stress. Go simple, make it with love and use a recipe if you need to. If all else fails, call for backup. Same for baking. You can throw together some sweet treats to serve with tea. And remember: CLEAN UP AFTERWARDS!
Digital Memories
We know you do this in school, so how about using it to make Mom feel special? Whether it’s PowerPoint or a free movie maker app, you can create a recurring favorite for Mom. Haul out some favorite family photos, throw in a song that will tug at her heartstrings and watch her face. You get bonus points if she needs a tissue while watching. Trust me!
Pebble Paperweight
Find a smooth rock in the garden. Use whatever you have in the house to decorate it and make it special. Sequins, feathers, buttons, paint… whatever you make, she’ll think of you every time she uses it.
An Email or Text a Day for a Month
Send the first one on the special day, with the promise of more to come. Each one can be unique. Find quotes that you like, or pictures that make you happy. Write little things about your day, moments that made you think of her. They don’t have to be long, just short reminders of how special she is to you.
Treasure Hunt
Write a dozen “Why I love you” notes on cardboard. Hide them throughout the house. If you are adventurous, write the clue to the next card on the back of the card before. If that sounds complicated, let her find them by playing hot and cold, or leave some of them hidden for her to fall over later.
Handmade Card
Yes, these never fail. But be mindful and creative – it doesn’t cost a thing. A little construction paper, glue, and your thoughts on paper go a long way.
Final Life Hack from another Mom – don’t save inexpensive gifts for just Mother’s Day or other holidays. You can show your mom that you appreciate her any time!
