Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic love—it’s a great opportunity to make your kids feel extra special, too. Whether you have toddlers or teenagers, here are some easy ideas to make the day fun.
Simple surprises for your littles
Young children love the excitement of a holiday and Valentine’s Day is a great time to treat them to some sweet surprises. Here are a few ideas to help make the day special.
- Heart-themed breakfast – Make heart-shaped pancakes or use a cookie cutter to turn toast into a festive shape. Add a little strawberry jam or pink sprinkles for extra fun.
- Notes on the mirror – Use window markers or sticky notes to write simple affirmations like “You are loved” or “You make me smile.”
- DIY Valentine’s crafts – Set up a craft station with red and pink paper, stickers, and glue so they can create their own Valentine’s masterpieces.
Fun ideas for grade-school kids
Elementary school aged kids love the excitement of Valentine’s Day, especially when it involves treats and creativity.
- Lunchbox love – Slip a small note or a heart-shaped snack into their lunch to brighten their day.
- After-school treat – Have a small, unexpected treat waiting for them, like a decorated cookie or a favorite book about kindness.
- Kindness challenge – Encourage them to write a kind note for a friend, teacher, or sibling to spread love beyond just their own celebration.
Cool ways to celebrate your middle schooler
Tweens can be a little trickier to impress, but these low-key but meaningful gestures will make them feel special. Don’t worry about being corny — they may roll their eyes, but they’ll be smiling inside.
- Valentine’s coupon book – Create a fun coupon book with things like “Pick the Movie Night” or “Your Favorite Dinner on Me.”
- Fun after-school activity – Make chocolate-covered strawberries, stop by their favorite frozen yogurt shop or surprise them with an hour at an old-school arcade.
- Socially cool but sweet – If they use a phone, send a fun text or GIF letting them know you’re thinking of them.
Treat your teen
Teens might not admit it, but they still appreciate feeling loved.
- A simple but sweet gift – Get them a box of their favorite candy, a cozy pair of socks or an iTunes gift card.
- Dinner of their choice – Let them pick what’s for dinner or order from their favorite takeout place.
- A story about them – Share a funny or heartwarming memory from when they were little, reminding them how much they mean to you.
No matter your child’s age, the most important thing is making them feel loved and appreciated. A little effort goes a long way in creating special moments that they’ll remember for years to come.