Tips for Newly Single Parents on Mother's Day
Mother's Day can be a mix of emotions for single parents. Whether you're navigating this day for the first time solo or looking for ways to make it special, there are plenty of ways to create meaningful moments with your children. Here are some tips and ideas gathered from our single parent community who have been through it themselves:
1. Make it a Family Affair
Involve your children in the celebration by letting them choose or make gifts and cards for you and other important women in their lives. Take a trip to craft markets or give them a budget to shop at affordable stores where they can select items themselves. This not only empowers them but also creates lasting memories.
"I tend to take my son shopping at craft markets in the run-up to Mother's Day. We make a day of it, and he picks things for his mum, his step mum, and his gran. It's become a tradition we both look forward to."
2. Create Traditions
Establish traditions that you and your children can look forward to each year. Whether it's a day out at the park, a movie marathon at home, or a DIY crafting session, having rituals can make the day feel special and meaningful for your family.
"Just have a nice day! Whether it's a day out or doing things at home, make it special in your own way."
“I used to take my daughter and me off for a day out. A meal, picnic, swimming whatever. We would also invite my mum along and have a girly day. If money was tight we would do things at home. Make things, movie and duvet days etc. My mum or childminder would always make sure I had a card to open on Mother’s Day.”
“Make time to make a cards for each other. My daughter made me a mummy so she gets a thank you card for making me a better me and I get one from her. It’s a family day. I didn’t have anyone to take her to get anything so making the card making experience about both of us helped me reclaim the day for our little family instead of me as mum.”
3. Team Up with Other Single Parents
Join forces with another single parent to share the workload and expenses. Set a budget and have each other's children choose or make gifts for the respective mothers. Consider spending the day together for a fun-filled celebration that strengthens bonds and creates a sense of community.
"Team up with another single parent! Set a budget. Buy for each other from the kids. Spend the day together for food or a take away and film with the kids."
“My advice would be to ask somebody close to your child to reach out to them and see if they want to buy or make something and support them to do that.”
4. Focus on Quality Time
Mother's Day doesn't have to be about lavish gifts or extravagant gestures. Instead, prioritise spending quality time with your children doing activities you all enjoy. Whether it's a picnic, a movie night, or a game day at home, the key is to cherish the moments together.
"It's just another day. Do something you enjoy and the kids enjoy too! Park, cinema, films at home. Whatever!"
“We all give each other hand and arm and shoulder massages. Train them and get them whilst they're young ! Mine love it. It's quite therapeutic for everyone. Nice scented creams and showing they care without the clutter and pressure of expense.”
5. Embrace Simple Gestures
Encourage your children to express their love and appreciation through simple gestures like homemade cards, breakfast in bed, or thoughtful messages. These heartfelt acts of kindness often hold more value than expensive gifts and can create cherished memories for years to come.
"Put craft things out and let them make cards with envelopes. My children's school does a lovely event too. They ask for donations of gifts. Then you can send in a £1. The children can go to the room and pick a gift, which they gift wrap. It's a brilliant idea! I also think just planning in together time is wonderful too."
“When I was a child all we did was make breakfast in bed for my mum. We never make much of a fuss to be honest but as others have mentioned go for a picnic, watch a film with a box of chocolates or just make time to do a jigsaw or play board games. I hate how commercialised it has become but understand children feel pressure to give something to mum.”
6. Take Care of Yourself
If Mother's Day brings up feelings of sadness or loss, it's okay to take a step back and prioritise self-care. Give yourself permission to celebrate in a way that feels right for you, whether it's spending time alone, deactivating social media, or honouring your mum's memory in your own way.
"For people that have lost their mums and find it hard: Know that that is completely ok and normal. If you need to batten down the hatches and lock out the world on Sunday to avoid it all, then do that."
“My mother died as I divorced and had my little one, and I've come to realise like other days it's just for shops to make money, try not to let it get to me anymore, maybe deactivate Facebook for a few days.”
Remember, Mother's Day is about celebrating the love and bond between you and your children, regardless of your family dynamics. By focusing on the moments that matter and embracing the support of loved ones, you can create a meaningful and memorable Mother's Day for you and your family.