Tips + Suggestions for Mother’s Day Gifts to Our Caregivers
My parents are divorced and I grew up with an outstanding step mom. My grandmother and great-grandmother were also important factors in my everyday life as a child, caring for my brother and I while my mom went to work. Because of this, honoring Mother’s Day was not a singular celebration. I always handed out multiple Mother’s Day gifts. Walmart has asked me to share my experience with Mother’s Day gifts and this we’re adding someone to the list.
While my hope is that my children never have step parents, they do have grandmothers to honor on Mother’s Day…. and an amazing babysitter/nanny!
Some time ago, Señora Gloria came into our lives. Recommended by a trusted friend, I proceeded with hope. She’s proven to be all I’d hoped for and so much more! So, as Mother’s Day draws near, it was only natural that the kids give her a Mother’s Day gift that expressed our appreciation for her mothering role in our lives.
5 Tips for Mother’s Day Gifts for Your Nanny or Babysitter
1. Something They Covet: If your nanny or babysitter comes into your home, they may have noted something that strikes their fancy. I do it all the time when I go to friends’ homes! From home decor to hand soap scents, I always learn of new products I covet when I visit others. For our babysitter, she fell in love with our cordless electric kettle. Every morning she comes, I make tea and we chit chat (in Spanish!!!) about the day’s plan while the kids eat their breakfast. I bought this Faberware Electric Kettle as a Mother’s Day gift for our babysitter and she was so happy!
2. Handmade Cards that Express Gratitude: Handmade cards from your kids that express gratitude to their caregiver in specific ways helps to show your babysitter that you value them. For example, “I love you because you make me laugh” or “When you tuck me in, I feel safe”. Babysitters are hugely important – they take care of our babies while we’re away! – and I want mine to know that we love her for her, and not for just what she does for us.
2. Gifts that Give Back: Mothers are nurtures, so giving Mother’s Day gifts that give back is a natural fit. I love Walmart’s Full Circle Exchange collection of products made by women in Haiti. Through our gift, we’re empowering small business owners worldwide. I know many mothers that would feel great about that!
4. Keep it modest: Show appreciation, but be mindful to not make anyone feel out of sorts or uncomfortable. If it feels right to you and the gift comes from the heart, then it’s perfect – regardless if it’s a $3 magazine, a handmade gift or a $30 tea kettle.
5. Mothering roles are everywhere: I love that Mother’s Day falls during Teacher’s Appreciation week this year. Although the pre-packaged gifts from Walmart that empower women in Haiti are designed to be Mother’s Day gifts, I bought two to give to each of Alina’s pre-school teachers. I know they’ll love them.
We’re new to the world of babysitters and nannies – I’m a SAHM who needs help one day a week and who also occasionally travels for work. I am proud to be my children’s primary caregiver… but I need help sometimes, too! Now that we’ve found someone amazing, I want her to know how much she is valued. Mother’s Day is a perfect opportunity to express that.
Do you give Mother’s Day gifts to your hired babysitter and/or nanny?
*Disclosure: As a member of the Walmart Moms program, I’ve received product samples and compensation for my time and efforts in creating this post.
Weather Anchor Mama
May 8, 2014 at 11:47 pmWhat a great idea! I never thought about Mother’s day gifts for babysitter. In our case, it’ll be my mom-she gets one anyway. hehe. Love the suggestions.