Mother’s Day is a special opportunity for children to show appreciation for the most important women in their lives—mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures. In early childhood settings, this celebration becomes even more meaningful when children can create heartfelt, handmade crafts and take part in engaging activities that highlight love, gratitude, and creativity.

Here are some thoughtful and age-appropriate crafts and activities perfect for preschoolers:

1. Handprint & Footprint Crafts

These classic keepsakes never go out of style! Use paint to create handprint flowers, butterflies, or heart-shaped designs on cards or canvases. Add a sweet message like “Hands down, you’re the best mom!”
Why it’s great: Develops fine motor skills and creates a lasting memory for parents.

2. DIY Flower Bouquets

Let children craft their own flowers using tissue paper, cupcake liners, or colored construction paper. Bundle them into a bouquet and tie with a ribbon.
Why it’s great: Encourages creativity and symbolic play while introducing the concept of giving.

3. "All About My Mom" Fill-in-the-Blank

Have children complete simple prompts like “My mom is ___ years old,” “She makes the best ___,” and “I love her because ___.” Their answers are often adorable and heartfelt.
Why it’s great: Enhances language development and personal expression.

4. Mother’s Day Tea Party

Host a pretend or real tea party where children can serve their moms snacks, sing songs, or perform a short poem. If parents can’t attend, educators can record or photograph the event to share.
Why it’s great: Fosters social-emotional development and strengthens parent-child connections.

5. Jewelry Making Station

Set up a bead station where children can create bracelets or necklaces using safe materials. Add letter beads to spell "MOM" or include heart-shaped charms.
Why it’s great: Supports hand-eye coordination and offers a beautiful gift option.

6. Storytime with a Twist

Read a story about mothers (like "Are You My Mother?" or "I Love You Because You're You") and follow it with a drawing activity where children illustrate their own version of the story with their mom in it.
Why it’s great: Builds literacy skills and encourages imagination.

7. Mother's Day Photo Frame

Children can decorate a cardboard photo frame with stickers, sequins, or natural materials like dried flowers and leaves. Insert a photo of the child for a personalized touch.
Why it’s great: Combines sensory play and creativity while producing a keepsake.

8. Song or Poem Performance

Teach the children a simple Mother’s Day poem or song that they can perform in class or at home. Record the performance to share with families via your communication app.
Why it’s great: Builds confidence and memory skills, while offering a touching gesture.

Tips for Educators:

• Keep it simple: Choose materials and instructions suitable for your group’s age and skill level.

• Celebrate all caregivers: Acknowledge that families come in different forms; offer inclusive language and options.

• Share the joy: Use tools like the Kidsday app to send photos or messages to parents so they feel included even if they can’t attend in person.

Mother’s Day is more than just a holiday—it’s a chance for children to express gratitude, practice kindness, and experience the joy of giving. Through fun, hands-on crafts and meaningful activities, you help children create memories that their moms will treasure forever.