Dear Ben,
How are you? Haven't heard you for ages!
I think, that children need to help to their parents around the house. And it was impolite from your side to ignore mother's task. Our parents spend all their day at work, so they usually come home very tired. I usually help my mom to wash the dishes and clean dust around the house. But if I don't need to help my mom I have free time. I can go for a walk and take some good photos or I can stay at home and read very interesting book.
I hope that you will help your mom.
Good wishes/write back soon
Name