Special Days Resources

Mother’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to teach students about appreciation, kindness, and gratitude. As primary school teachers, we can guide children to create meaningful gifts, explore the history of Mother’s Day, and celebrate all the special “mother figures” in their lives.

Here’s everything you need to plan an engaging and inclusive Mother’s Day celebration in your classroom.

What is Mother’s Day?

Mother’s Day is a special day to recognise and honour mothers and mother figures for the love, care, and support they give. In Australia, we celebrate Mother’s Day on the second Sunday in May each year.

Mother’s Day is not just about mums. It can also celebrate grandmothers, aunties, carers, step-mums, foster mums, and any important female role models.

A Short History of Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day began in America in 1908, when Anna Jarvis organised the first official celebration to honour her own mother. It became a national holiday in the United States in 1914.

In Australia, Janet Heyden started the tradition in Sydney in 1924. She collected gifts for elderly mothers who were alone in hospitals. From there, Mother’s Day grew into the celebration we know today.

How to Teach About Mother’s Day in the Classroom

Here are some meaningful ways to teach students about Mother’s Day:

• Discuss the meaning of gratitude and appreciation.
• Explore the history through storytelling and simple timelines.
• Include all family structures by allowing students to celebrate any mother figure.
• Highlight Australian traditions, like giving chrysanthemums.

Focus on kindness, creativity, and making heartfelt connections rather than expensive gifts.

Mother’s Day Symbols to Introduce

Help students understand common Mother’s Day symbols and their meanings:

• Chrysanthemums – popular in Australia because they bloom in May and end with “mum”.
• Carnations – represent love.
• Hearts – symbolise affection and gratitude.
• Cards – express heartfelt messages.
• Breakfast in bed – a traditional Aussie way to spoil mums!

Mothers Day Picture Books

Sharing stories about families and special people is a beautiful way to celebrate.

Here are some wonderful books to read:

• “My Mum” by Anthony Browne
• “I Love My Mum” by Anna Walker
• “The Invisible String” by Patrice Karst
• “Because Your Mommy Loves You” by Andrew Clements
• “What Mummies Do Best” by Laura Numeroff
• “How to Raise a Mum” by Jean Reagan
• “Wherever You Are: My Love Will Find You” by Nancy Tillman

These books explore love, family, connection, and the special bond between caregivers and children.

Important Teaching Tips for Mother’s Day

• Use inclusive language – say “someone special” or “mother figure”.
• Be sensitive to students who may have lost a mother or are in non-traditional families.
• Offer choice – allow students to create for whoever they feel comfortable celebrating.

By making your activities flexible and student-led, you create a safe, joyful celebration for all.

Final Thoughts

Mother’s Day is more than flowers and cards — it’s a chance to teach students about gratitude, kindness, and the special people in their lives. With a little planning and thoughtful activities, you can create meaningful memories for your students and their families.

Happy Teaching and Happy Mother’s Day! 🌸