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
Steps
- 1
Even a young child can help prepare a Mother’s Day gift for Mom.
- 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
Walk around the home with your child and notice what catches their attention. Pause to give them a chance to communicate.
- 4
If they make an unclear sound while looking at a flower, respond with words: “Would you like the flower?”
- 5
If they say something like “flower” or “take,” build on it: “You’re taking the flower to Mom.”
- 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
When the box is ready, walk together to Mom and let your child hand over the gift.
What to notice
- Attempts new words such as “take” and “flower” Vocabulary
- Looks for objects independently without adult help Gross Motor
Tips
- 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.
Developmental benefits
- 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