With Mother’s Day in just a couple of weeks (May 8, 2011 in case you were wondering,) there are many ways for your little ones to do something nice for their favorite mom.  With two weeks to plan, mom’s can start dropping some hints with how they would like to celebrate their special day.  How would you like to spend Mother’s Day this year?  Or, how was your favorite Mother’s Day spent?

Here are a few ideas to pass along to the kids and other helper adults as hints for celebrating Mother’s Day without spending money:

1. Breakfast in bed is not overrated!  Kids can make a simple breakfast of some fruit and toast or muffin without much help.  Or a helpful adult can aid kids with preparing something more elaborate.
2. A homemade card or drawing for mom is very much appreciated!  Older kids can help younger kids with their artwork and spelling.
3. Make a collage for mom.  Cut out pictures and words she likes from magazines or print photos to use to create a memorable keepsake.
4. Clean and tidy up the toys!  Even little kids can help with this.
5. Invite mom to go on a walk or hike at a local park, or even around the neighborhood.  Exploring the world at a slower pace can be a nice change and gives you time for an uninterrupted conversation.
6. Record mom’s favorite movie or show on the DVR and leave her alone in quiet to watch with her favorite snack!
7. Wash the outside and clean up the inside of mom’s car, throwing out the trash and broken crayons/toy parts.  Leave a little happy love note on the front seat for mom.
8. Make up a coupon booklet for mom.  Include coupons for a “Day of no arguments,”  ”Clean up the toys/bedrooms,” and “No whining day!”
9. Plan a picnic or snack to enjoy outside with mom…in the backyard, at a local park, or local garden.
10. Put on a little play or show for mom.  Act out a favorite storybook that can include all the kids in the family.  Clean up afterwards!