The Mowbray Mothers of Preschoolers group made up 40 gift packages for mums with children in the neonatal, children's and maternity wards.

It's to remind mums that they're important, according to group publicity leaders Mel Duffy and Sam Illman.

``It's tough having children in hospital during the Christmas period and people tend to forget about mums,'' Mrs Duffy said.

``We thought it would be a nice gesture if we gave them a gift to help destress.''

Gift packages included shampoos, soaps and even a candy cane for the dads.

The group is an international support base where mothers can meet up and be themselves.

``I know that the group has helped a lot of mothers get through tough times,'' Mrs Illman said. ``It gives you a time once every two weeks to relax and be an adult with a great support group.''

The group has grown substantially in the past three years. ``We started off with five mums,'' Mrs Duffy said.

``We've now got 17 mums and 27 children. Anyone with children at preschool age is welcome to join.''

For more information, call Mrs Duffy on 0423 157 991.