Here is a picture of one of the neatest mother's day ideas...
You can buy plates, mugs or even candle holders that your kids can put permanent art work on. They can be found at craft stores or even some department stores. They aren't very expensive. I found them for 6.99 each..
Just follow the directions and they are so very simple.. Display them around the house or hang them with other plates like I did. The kids love to do them and there really isn't a mess.
Wouldn't be fun to make them every year and have a whole collection of art work from your children...