May 7, 2026
Tzu Chi preschoolers turn gratitude into gentle care during Mother’s Day celebration
By Thania Florendo
Most mornings, mothers are the first to rise to serve their families while tending to the needs and tantrums of their little ones. But the roles gently shifted on May 4 at Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines in Agno, Quezon City. The faculty and staff set aside a special Mother’s Day celebration that allowed moms to pause, be cared for, and be honored in return through a warm and simple tribute to their love, effort, and quiet strength.
Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines Directress Jane Sy, regarded as the mother of the school for her constant presence and guidance, delivered her advanced Mother’s Day message.
“To all our super moms who are here, we honor your strength, patience, and the powerful role that you play every day in guiding your children. As Master Cheng Yen said, in the simplest ways that you do, we are shaping society’s hope in the future. So you really have a powerful role in you.”
She concluded by thanking the parents for their trust and support as the school year draws to a close.
The program featured interactive and playful activities. In the game “Would Mommy Rather,” children eagerly pulled their mothers toward choices they believed would suit them best. Another highlight was the “Magical Balloon Walk,” where mothers and children worked together to move a balloon using only their foreheads. This filled the room with laughter, cheers, and playful energy.
A heartfelt segment followed, where selected mothers shared “magical moments” with their children. As they presented scrolls with drawings and messages, they reflected on how their children bring joy even in difficult times. Mostly, it reminded them of the beauty of innocence and the grounding power of a child’s love.
One of the most cherished parts of the celebration was the “Queen’s Hand Spa,” where children lovingly treated their mothers to a simple hand spa service.
Abigail Siy, mother of twins Aiden and Cara, shared how meaningful the experience was for her.
“I remember the times that I took care of them since they were babies. The part of the activity where they washed my hands, I really appreciate it. I took care of them, and now, they know how to take care of me.”
As her children grow, she expressed her hope that they will carry the values they have learned and continue to become kind and good individuals.
Another parent, Jane Tee, expressed appreciation for the effort put into the celebration, saying it made her feel valued. She also shared her gratitude for the teachers, whom she considers second mothers to her child, Tommy.
“I hope for Tommy to always follow his teachers because I know that whenever he listens to his teachers, it would lead him to become a better person.”
Mothers were treated to more surprises as they watched heartfelt video greetings, accepted personal art gifts from their children, and joined photo opportunities to capture lasting memories.
“We came from our mother and we have to give value to them. And that’s where Tzu Chi enters because our organization reminds us of the value of respecting our mothers,” said Tecaher Marian “Yani” Carpo.
She leaves a strong emphasis that every mother still carries a child within her, which is often forgotten amid daily responsibilities. The celebration served as a reminder that mothers are important, loved, and deeply needed, not only by their families but also by society.
Indeed, the society that we have right now wouldn't be the best that it is without our mothers.
The decorations at Tzu Chi Great Love Preschool Philippines create a warm and loving atmosphere, welcoming mothers attending the celebration.
Tears welled up as mothers looked back on how quickly time had passed: from once cradling their children in their arms to now watching them begin their own journey in preschool.
Teamwork and coordinated steps are the key to winning the game Magical Balloon Walk.
Three heads are better than two, with twins Aiden and Cara working together with their mom to finish the Magical Balloon Walk in perfect sync.
Moms were randomly invited to the front to share their children’s magical moments, from acts of kindness to everyday positivity.
A complete spa set was prepared to pamper the moms’ hands, tired from handling house chores.
Out of love for their moms, nursery students carried trays with spa sets, moving carefully in small steps to ensure safe delivery to the tables.
Excitement filled the room as the little ones were about to treat mommies to a special treat.
Little massage therapists focused on their task of giving their moms the best hand spa service.
Twins Aiden and Cara made sure their mom, Abigail Siy, was pleased with their loving service.
Jane Tee, mother of Tommy, felt happy and relaxed as she experienced the personal service her son gave.
Kids performed a surprise song-and-dance number, “Never Had a Dream Come True,” along with the giving of mirror art gifts.
Mothers looked on with pride as the nursery pupils built their confidence through performances.
The event was a simple yet meaningful way to reminisce about their first steps on the Tzu Chi stage.
Smiles and hugs were captured to close the wonderful celebration.