Mother's Day is fast approaching, and the pressure is on to show the mom in your life just how much you love and appreciate her. 

But do you know what will really make mom feel loved and appreciated? I can assure you, it isn’t flowers or breakfast in bed. What we all really want is a short reprieve from the many tasks we juggle and a chance to pamper ourselves—or maybe just sleep past 7am.

Here are some ideas. The best part? The kids can get involved, too!

1. Clean the House

As recently as last year, research showed that women still do the bulk of the housework.

Even if you split the chores, wouldn't it be nice to take hers on for a day? Bonus points if you can clean it while she’s sleeping so she wakes up to completely clean home. The kids can pitch in with tasks of their own.

Even better, you can treat everyone by paying for a cleaner to come every few weeks—or even just once to do a deep clean.

2. Take On One of Her Projects

Right now, I'm trying to fix the chipping paint in the dining room, plan the flower beds, get the kids signed up for summer activities and keep my freelance career going. In short, I have a lot on my plate.

If your partner is at all like me, she would greatly appreciate having one of her to-dos checked off. Even taking something small that the kids can help out with is a huge help. She may even hit you back and take one of your tasks on Father's Day.

3. Let Her Sleep In

Breakfast in bed is nice, but honestly, it's a little weird eating in the bedroom. You're all worried about spilling something in bed and your neck sort of starts to hurt sitting like that.

What every mom REALLY wants is to snooze through breakfast while you and the kids go out for some quality time. Once the kids are tuckered out and ready for a nap or some quiet time of their own, you can offer her a relaxing lunch in bed...or maybe in the kitchen.

4. Make Sure She Pampers Herself

Moms often forgo their own self-care. If you want to show her that you care, make sure she takes some time for herself. Get her a gift card for whatever kind of pampering she likes. Maybe it’s a massage, a mani/pedi, a good meal or whatever her treat of choice is. Then (here’s the key) book the appointment and arrange for childcare during that time so she can just head out the door.

5. Give Her a Little Alone Time

 

Maybe all she really wants is some time to herself. If she loves to read, leave her with a stack of books and an entire day to gobble them up. If she likes to go out with friends, send her out for the day and have her come home to a clean house in the evening. Sometimes all it takes is a little time to recharge.

6. Make a Homemade Card

Finally, give mom something she'll always love—a little something heartfelt and homemade from her little ones. A card, or even a short note, saying “Thanks mom, I love you,” will do the trick.

All of these are great ideas, but if you still want to get her a little something to unwrap, we've got some great ideas for that, too!