Families For Life | 5 Ways to Tell Mum "I Love You" Without Buying a Gift

Being a mum is a full-time job — no off-days, no medical leave. With just one day a year dedicated to celebrating mums, it’s probably no wonder that you’re racking your brains to find the perfect Mother’s Day gift. But if the goal is to make mum feel appreciated, sometimes it’s the smallest gestures that go the furthest.

So maybe skip the expensive presents! Instead, consider what you can do to make mum feel seen, heard and cared for. Here are five ideas to inspire you.

1. Give Her a Break

Rather than buy a robot vacuum cleaner, why not become it? Even if it’s just for a day, try taking on some of the household chores so mum can get a rest. Better yet, make personalised coupons that offer a hug or a favour of choice, that she can “spend” it across the year, as and when the need arises.

Whether or not mum ends up using these coupons, it’s a great way for her to see you appreciate the little things she does, and understand that like everyone else, she could use some time off.

2. Make Effort to Share

Maybe mum has always wanted to know how to use Zoom, Instagram or TikTok, but you’ve always been too busy to guide her. Make time! No matter what it is she’s hoping to learn, the effort you take to explain is something that can make her feel supported and encouraged. It’s also a good way to spend some quality time with each other which brings us to the next point…

3. Take the Time to Listen

What do you really know about mum? Ask her about her daily routine, likes, dislikes and challenges. And don’t stop there — if you find there’s a hobby she’s really into, or a dish she makes that she’s very proud of, why not spend some time doing it together? Letting her take the lead in showing you something can help her feel heard, and gives her the chance to share something she’s proud of.

4. Help Dad Surprise Her

Between work and parenthood there’s often little time for date night. So get dad involved to plan a simple surprise for him and mum to spend time together. Besides getting a break from “mothering”, it’s also nice for mum to see that her spouse appreciates all the effort she’s put in!

5. Tell Her You Love Her

Sometimes it’s as simple as just saying “Thank you Mum, I love you”. Whether it’s in the form of a text message, a handwritten note, a phone call, or even a compliments jar that mum can pick from each time she’s feeling low, don’t underestimate the power of words. Verbally affirm mum’s efforts in your life because that’s a gift that money just can’t buy.