Common Sense Media Review
By Regan McMahon
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Crayons thank their caregivers in inclusive holiday tale.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY FROM THE CRAYONS shows the various color Crayons saying why they love their moms, identifying what's special about them, such as "even though she doesn't color within the lines." Barfy Crayon loves his his oil-paint stepmom "for all her hugs and words of kindness." Black Crayon loves her two moms "too much for words!" Chunky Toddler Crayon says he loves his dad on on Mother's Day, and we see his dad wearing an apron and chef's hat and carrying a wooden spoon. Yellow and Orange Crayon thank their grandma. There are references to things in previous books that fans will pick up on, like the Pea Green Crayon who changed his name to Esteban to avoid kids in school giggling every time the teacher said his name out loud. He thanks his mom for "always supporting his dreams of adventure!" The book concludes by saying, "All the Crayons love showing their families how much they're loved on Mothers Day."
Is It Any Good?
This loving celebration of moms retains its trademark Crayon-y humor while acknowledging that there are all kinds of families. Happy Mother's Day From the Crayons leans on the individual characteristics of the moms in often hilarious ways, like White Crayon's mom, who disappears against a white background (except for her two eyes and a smile). "White Crayon loves his mom even though he can't see her," the text declares. Then White Crayon says, "She's always here for me somewhere... I think."
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the different family members highlighted in Happy Mother's Day from the Crayons. Who takes care of you? Does your dad or a grandparent play a big role?
Which is your favorite picture in the book? Which is the funniest?
The Crayons express gratitude to their moms and other family members. Why is it important to thank the people who care for you?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Oliver Jeffers
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Holidays
- Character Strengths : Communication , Gratitude
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Philomel
- Publication date : February 4, 2025
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 32
- Available on : Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 18, 2025
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
Suggest an Update
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate