We've talked a fair amount on ParentDish recently about great gifts for mums, including crafty ideas, pampering breaks and thoughtful gifts. However, a new survey suggests that what the majority of mums really want this Sunday is a little more time to do their own thing.

62% of mothers felt they don't have enough hours in the day to get everything done. The researcher then asked them what they'd do if they were given an hour extra a day for their own activities rather than for their usual workload.

The results suggest that mothers yearn for time to themselves doing simple things that a childless individual might take for granted, rather then anything luxurious or expensive.

Things they want to do include:

  • 75% would just like to chill with their families, with no chores looming
  • 58% would like to be pampered at least once a fortnight with a beauty treatment
  • 56% would like to go shopping for by themselves each week
  • 42% would like to do gardening twice a week
  • 40% would like to exercise at least three times a week
  • 38% would like to read each day
  • 37% would like to go to the cinema once a fortnight
  • 19% would just like to lie in a bath for an hour
  • 10% would like to watch more TV
The research was undertaken by Horizon Fitness, who I'm sure are probably quite happy with the 40% who want to exercise more. Exercising regularly can increase confidence and energy levels, which can make parenting a little easier. Putting time aside to do it is the difficult part.

The general consensus is that some mums are in desperate need of a bit of 'me' time. Whether it's a new mum or the mother of teenagers, the best gift you can give them is time.

What would you do if you had an extra hour every day?