Love your Spuds – Mothers Day with Kate Hardcastle

With over half the UK population (56.4%) planning to buy for Mother’s Day (15 March 2026) this year, the pressure to deliver the perfect celebration is at an all-time high. The majority (62%) of mums said that spending time with their family was the best rated gift.

With the cost of an average mid-range restaurant Mother’s Day meal now hitting £160 with drinks, families can save £135 by preparing a similar dish and drinks at home.

As a result, time-pressed parents are using their Mother’s Day get-together to save cash and support their children’s cooking skills.  

Consumer expert Kate Hardcastle MBE, who is partnering with Albert Barlett said: “Mother’s Day has quietly shifted from a performance moment to a parenting moment. What many families are really looking for is time together without pressure, and the kitchen has become a natural place for that.

Cooking with children isn’t about perfection or presentation, it’s about confidence, life skills and shared responsibility. When we give children a simple role in preparing the meal, we’re not just making lunch, we’re building capability and connection.

For many mums, the most meaningful gift is being relieved of the mental load for a few hours and seeing their children take part in something that feels grown-up, useful and kind.”

Albert Bartlett believes the classic baked potato could be the perfect answer to this year’s Mother’s Day celebration. Simple to prepare, filling, and packed with nutrients, it’s an easy way for even the youngest family members to join in the cooking.

Baked potatoes are naturally high in fibre and a good source of vitamin C and B6, making them a wholesome choice that supports a balanced diet. Topped with imaginative favourites like tuna and sweetcorn, cheese and beans, or roasted vegetables and hummus, they can be transformed into something special without much effort… or cost.

With an average baked potato meal for a family of four coming in at under £5 (topping dependent), it’s also a cost-effective way to share good food and good company. Whether they’re scooping their own toppings or helping wrap potatoes in foil, children can easily be part of a relaxed, home-cooked meal that feels celebratory without the stress.

Kate added: “We’re seeing families move away from staged, high-pressure celebrations towards something more authentic and emotionally valuable. Sharing the cooking gives children a sense of responsibility and gives parents a genuine pause from planning and organising the day.

“Because Mother’s Day doesn’t have to be about flawless presentation — it can simply be about a family sharing a meal, some laughter, and a moment of togetherness over a perfectly baked potato.” concluded Kate.

Simple Mother’s Day Meal Idea

A baked potato bar is one of the easiest family meals.

Everyone can choose their own toppings! Check out some of our Albert Bartlett recipes to create the perfect baked potatoes with exciting toppings:

Kate said “A baked potato is a brilliant family meal because everyone can build their own plate –  simple, affordable and it brings everyone to the table