Mother’s Day in South Africa is all about showing love, appreciation, and gratitude — and nothing says "I love you" more than a handmade gift from your little one. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or party planner, these easy and affordable Mother’s Day crafts for kids are perfect for creating lasting memories and heartfelt keepsakes.
These DIY gift ideas are fun, simple, and require minimal supplies — ideal for preschools, classrooms, party packs, or at-home activities. Best of all, they’re packed with personal touches that any South African mom will treasure forever.
🖐️ 1. Handprint Heart Art
Let kids dip their hands in paint and create heart-shaped handprints on cardboard to place in a frame or canvas. Add their names and the date for a keepsake that grows more special with time.
Supplies: Paper, paint, wet wipes for cleanup
Great for: Toddlers and preschoolers
🎨 2. Decorated Photo Frames
Kids can decorate a plain wooden or cardboard frame using beads, sequins, buttons, or paper flowers. Pop in a picture of the child with mom, or even a drawing of them together.
Budget tip: Buy frames in bulk from craft shops or discount stores like PEP or Crazy Store.
💌 3. "Reasons I Love Mom" Mini Booklet
Help kids create a little booklet with drawings or sentences like "I love my mom because she...". Staple or punch a ribbon through the pages for a handmade storybook.
Bonus: Perfect writing practice for early primary schoolers!
🌷 4. Paper Flower Bouquets
Make colourful flowers using cupcake liners, pipe cleaners, or tissue paper. Kids can glue them onto paper to create a bouquet or bunch them up in a recycled tin as a 3D display.
Eco tip: Use scrap paper and recyclable materials for a more sustainable craft.
🖍️ 5. Mother’s Day Colouring Cards
Print out free Mother’s Day-themed colouring pages or cards and let the kids go wild with crayons, glitter glue, or stickers. These are quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for classrooms or party bags.
Free printable idea: Add your business name or class name to personalize!
💎 6. Beaded Bracelets or Necklaces
Let little ones create a beaded bracelet or necklace with plastic beads and string. Include a little card that says, "For the best mom ever!"
Supervision required for younger kids when using small beads.
✂️ 7. Jar of Love Notes
Each child writes a few short notes or drawings about mom and puts them into a small jar or decorated tin. Add a tag that says, "Open when you need a smile!"
Budget version: Use a recycled baby food jar or yoghurt tub.
🎁 8. Mother’s Day Gift Tags or Badges
Create “Best Mom” badges or gift tags using cardboard, glitter, and ribbon. They can be used to decorate a gift bag, bouquet, or even worn proudly on the day.
🪴 9. Painted Pots with a Plant
Let kids paint a small plant pot and plant a seedling or succulent in it. Moms will love watching it grow, just like their little one.
Plant ideas: Succulents, herbs like basil or mint, or marigolds for colour.
❤️ 10. "I Love You to Pieces" Puzzle Art
Glue paper puzzle pieces or small scraps in the shape of a heart with the caption: "I love you to pieces!" A sweet craft that’s perfect for little hands.
✨ Bonus Tips for Teachers & Parents:
Include these crafts in party packs for schools or community events.
Add gift tags or printables that say “Made with love by (child’s name)”
Allow guided creativity: give structure, but let kids add their unique flair.
Set up a craft station if hosting a Mother’s Day event or picnic.
Final Thoughts: Homemade Gifts, Big Smiles
These DIY Mother’s Day crafts are more than just glue and glitter — they’re a way for kids to express their love and creativity. Whether you’re at home or in a classroom, these budget-friendly, meaningful activities will bring joy to every South African mom.
❤️ Because sometimes, the most special gifts are made with tiny hands and big hearts.