Valentine's Day can be a bit of a polarizing holiday. You either love it or hate it. Starting from the day after Christmas, everywhere you look there's hearts, roses, and all things red, white and pink.
Some may view this day as an excuse for more candy or to plan a date night. But when you have a family, it's also the perfect opportunity to show your children the things you appreciate and love about them.
An idea I found on Pinterest years ago that has stuck with me is to leave cut out hearts with a character trait, or something you love and appreciate about each child on their bedroom door.
Each evening when they’re asleep, you can cut a heart out (whatever kind of color and paper you want to use), write something on it that you want the child to know that you love about them, and tape it to their door. Then, when they wake up, they can be encouraged with the kind words you have left for them. You can do this for the entire month, or just the week of Valentine’s Day. It is totally up to you! Try to be intentional with your words and compliments. For example, “I love when you give me hugs after a long day.”
One of my best friends hosts an annual Valentine’s Day dinner with friends. Her children invite a few of their friends over and they decorate the dining room with heart balloons and red streamers. The kids participate in making the food that will be eaten during the party and they all enjoy playing a few games or creating a craft together.
The sky’s the limit on this idea. You can have a fancy dinner as a family, where you all dress up and eat together. You can host a tea party with siblings or a fun party with friends. There are many game and craft ideas online if you are needing some inspiration. There are even recipes for Valentine’s Day slime if you are feeling extra brave this year!
If you have an older child or teenager, you may need to take a different approach to the festivities. Consider setting aside an afternoon or entire day to spend some quality time doing something they love.
For so many years I thought Valentine’s Day was just a silly holiday, but as a mother it has given me a wonderful opportunity to let my children know that they are loved and appreciated. We as parents can set the example of how to show others our appreciation not only on Valentine’s Day, but throughout the year.
Want more Valentine's Day ideas? Check out our Valentine's Day Pinterest board full of classroom valentine ideas, valentine ideas for teachers, and simple craft ideas you can do at home.
Missy is a homeschooling mom to a 12-year-old daughter and 9-year-old son. She documents her and her family's adventures on Instagram @MomAboutCharleston.
