For some moms, Mother’s Day is a chance to spend a little time away from the kids getting pampered. For some, it’s a fun-filled day of family fun. Either way, Mom is likely the one to plan (or hint at heavily) the events of the day. Here are a few things the kids can do all by themselves, once you tip them off.
Tiny Tots
Their coordination and attention spans kind of limit toddlers’ “all by myself” options, but an adult-supervised (hello, Dad!) art project that involves washable paint, stringing macaroni or affixing tissue paper to construction paper are doable. They can also make mom a crown out of construction paper, glue, sequins (skip glitter at this age!!) and tissue paper. She is, after all, queen for a day!
Bigger Little Ones
Kids who have learned to write a few words can craft a short story or poem about their favorite things to do with you. Make them a blank “book” ahead of time by folding a few sheets of construction paper in half and stapling them in the middle. The idea works for kids who would rather let pictures do the talking, too.
Almost Grown
Breakfast in bed, as long as said breakfast is not at the crack of dawn and does not involve using the oven unsupervised can be a fun way to kick off the day. Instant oatmeal in the microwave with bananas and cinnamon are within reach for most kids in this age group. With a little help, they can pull off pancakes, but even cold cereal brought in on a pretty tray with a flower will be nice if they clean up after themselves!
The day is all about moms, but the kids can make it special. Point the rugrats in the right direction and see what they come up with. Like so many other times, they’re likely to surprise you.
