A Gift for Mom

Follow your child’s interest as you choose small objects, talk about them, and place them in a gift box for Mom.

  • 18 months
  • Quick prep
  • At home
  • About 15 minutes
Focus
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  1. 1

    Even a young child can help prepare a Mother’s Day gift for Mom.

  2. 2

    Choose a box and place one familiar item inside, such as a teddy bear. Say, “Let’s put the bear in the box for Mom.”

  3. 3

    Walk around the home with your child and notice what catches their attention. Pause to give them a chance to communicate.

  4. 4

    If they make an unclear sound while looking at a flower, respond with words: “Would you like the flower?”

  5. 5

    If they say something like “flower” or “take,” build on it: “You’re taking the flower to Mom.”

  6. 6

    Have a short exchange for each item your child chooses. If they say “car,” you can answer, “The little car is for Mom too.”

  7. 7

    When the box is ready, walk together to Mom and let your child hand over the gift.

  • Attempts new words such as “take” and “flower” Vocabulary
  • Looks for objects independently without adult help Gross Motor
  • After you say something, pause and give your child time to respond.
  • A full sentence is not required. Trying a single new word such as “flower” or “take” is meaningful progress.
  • Language: Choosing objects for Mom creates a warm, meaningful reason for your child to listen to and try new words during a back-and-forth exchange.

Better Parenting Content Team · Updated September 11, 2026