What Chicago Moms Really Want for Mother’s Day (Hint: It’s Not Just Brunch)

Mother’s Day in Chicago often brings to mind flowers, brunch reservations, and maybe a last-minute card scribbled with love (and crumbs) from the kids. And while mimosas and pancakes are always welcome, the truth is — many moms are craving something deeper this Mother’s Day.

I asked moms across Chicago, from Rogers Park to Beverly, what they really want. The answers? They're refreshingly real.

“I want a break. Just a real break.”

"I'm with my kids all the time — I love them to death, but I'd give anything for a day with no one saying 'Mom' for a few hours. Even two!" — Jasmin, mom of 3 in Bronzeville

• Rest topped nearly every response. And not the kind of rest where you sneak in a nap between laundry loads. Moms are asking for guilt-free, uninterrupted rest. The kind where someone else handles things, even if just for a day.

“Help around the house — without having to ask.”

"A clean kitchen. No laundry on the stairs. I want my family to just see what needs to be done and do it." — Maria, Logan Square

• For many moms, emotional labor is the real thief of peace. The gift of initiative — not having to direct help — was high on the list. More than physical gifts, moms wanted the mental load lightened.

“Time alone. And time together.”

These two may sound contradictory, but Chicago moms are masters of nuance.

"I want to start the day alone with a hot cup of coffee and a guilt-free scroll through my phone. Then I want to end it with my family, doing something simple like a movie night, a bedtime story, or even a picnic at the park." — Shaye, Hyde Par

• Solitude and connection are both precious — and most moms want a balance of both.

“To be seen — and appreciated.”

"Honestly? I want to feel like what I do is noticed. Not just on Mother’s Day, but still... it’s nice to hear ‘thank you’ and know it’s meant." — Katie, Edgewater

• A sincere thank-you, a handwritten note, or even a heartfelt conversation can go a long way. It's not about a grand gesture. It's about being seen.

“Time off from the invisible job.”

While many workplaces offer PTO, parenting doesn’t come with days off — even on Mother’s Day.

"I love my kids more than anything, but what I want is someone else to plan the meals, pack the bags, think through what everyone needs. Just for one day." — Leigh, Lakeview

• Being the default parent, the planner, the finder of lost shoes — it’s exhausting. Taking over that invisible labor, even temporarily, is one of the most thoughtful gifts a partner or family member can give.

The Bottom Line

Yes, brunch is lovely. But what Chicago moms really want this Mother’s Day is something that lasts longer than a latte. They want space to breathe. Support without asking. Gratitude that feels real.

So if you're wondering how to show up for a mom in your life this year — ask her what she needs. And then listen. It might be brunch… but it also might be silence, sleep, or someone else doing the dishes.