Mother’s Day and Father’s Day are often filled with cards, flowers, and family brunches—but for many, these days are not only joyful, but deeply tender. For bereaved parents, navigating these celebrations can bring complex emotions. Whether you’ve lost a child, lost a parent, or are struggling to become one, these holidays can feel both incredibly meaningful and painfully bittersweet.

That’s why we also honor Bereaved Mother’s Day (the first Sunday in May) and Bereaved Father’s Day (typically observed the third Sunday in June, just before Father's Day). These days exist to carve out space for parents who carry their love in loss.

The History of These Holidays

Mother’s Day

was first celebrated in the U.S. in 1908 and made a national holiday in 1914, thanks to the efforts of Anna Jarvis, who wanted to honor her own mother’s sacrifices. Over time, it evolved into a broader celebration of motherhood.

Father’s Day had a slower start. It was inspired by Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her father, a single dad who raised six kids. It became an official U.S. holiday in 1972.

Bereaved Mother’s Day was founded by CarlyMarie Dudley in 2010, as a way to honor mothers who have experienced loss—whether through miscarriage, stillbirth, infant or child death, or infertility. Bereaved Father’s Day, while less widely recognized, has grown in support and community visibility in recent years as well.

Celebrating When Grief is Part of the Story

Some parents may celebrate both the traditional and bereaved versions of these holidays. Others may choose to recognize only one. There’s no “right” way—only what feels authentic for each person.

If you’re supporting someone navigating these days with grief, here are a few gift and support ideas that truly speak love:

Thoughtful Gift Ideas for Bereaved Moms and Dads

Thoughtful Gifts For Moms:

• A custom piece of jewelry with their baby’s name or birthstone, or a "mama" necklace
• A miscarriage "Forget Me Not" necklace
• A candle or ornament personalized with a name or date
• A grief journal or devotional
• A custom family portrait
• A donation to a meaningful cause or nonprofit (like Gemma’s Hope) in their baby’s name
• A simple card that says, “I remember.”
• A sweatshirt for their "angel baby"

Thoughtful Gifts For Dads:

• A keychain or bracelet engraved with their child’s name or initials
• A custom woodwork piece—something practical yet meaningful
• Plant a tree in their memory or order a garden stone
• A book or podcast recommendation that speaks to grief and fatherhood
• Time—invite him to coffee or to do something he enjoys, and just be there
• A custom tshirt with their baby's name & birthday
• A sweatshirt for their "angel baby"

Ways to Honor These Days:

• Light a candle on Bereaved Mother’s or Father’s Day in remembrance
• Wear a t-shirt or jewelry with your baby’s name
• Share a photo or post online with their name or a memory
• Visit a special place or create a ritual that’s yours
• Attend or host a gathering with others who understand

If you are a bereaved mom or dad reading this: You are a parent. Your love is valid and visible, even if your arms are empty. Whether you celebrate one day or all of them, whether you need space or connection, know that your story matters and your child is remembered.

Physical & E-Cards

• Papyrus E-cards from OptionB.org: Father's Day & Mother's Day
• Card from Lucky Anchor Project (deadline is April 15th or 200 cards)
• Physical Card from Seed & Sew
• Free printable cards for moms & dads