Mother's Day

Mother's Day is a special holiday to honor moms. In the United States, it is celebrated on the second Sunday in May. Children give their mothers cards, flowers, and hugs. Many families make breakfast in bed for mom. It is a day to say thank you for all that mothers do.

How It Started

Mother's Day in America was started by a woman named Anna Jarvis. She wanted a special day to honor her own mother. In 1914, the President made Mother's Day an official holiday. Anna picked carnations as the holiday flower. Today, millions of people celebrate moms on this day.

An old painting of a loving mother holding her child.
An old painting of a loving mother holding her child. (Wikimedia Commons)

Ways to Celebrate

Kids often make homemade cards for their moms. Some families cook her favorite meal. Others give flowers like roses or carnations. Taking mom to a park or restaurant is also popular. The best gift is spending time together as a family.

Fun Facts

  • Mother's Day is one of the busiest days for phone calls in the United States.
  • More flowers are sold for Mother's Day than almost any other holiday.
  • Many countries celebrate Mother's Day on different dates.

Did You Know?

Anna Jarvis, who started Mother's Day, later wished it had not become so commercial.