This will be our 12th Valentine’s Day with kids and it’s become a tradition to celebrate with the kids. This is something we all look forward to, and while a date night would be lovely, celebrating the day with all of my loves feels extra special. Plus, it’s far more convenient, especially when Valentine’s Day lands on a weekday and we all have work and school the next day.
There are many fun ways to include kids in your Valentine’s Day activities. And afterward, don’t feel guilty include putting them to bed early so you can enjoy some extra time together as a couple – watching Netflix or spending time doing something else.
Gather around the table
Make your Valentine’s Day meal by cooking together. From choosing the menu, to shopping, and prepping it the night of, you can get the kids involved. If you are like us, we order in a delicious meal instead of cooking. In that case, set the scene and pretend you are at a fancy restaurant together. The kids will love it!
Create together
Think about those paint night events but create one at home. You just need canvases and some paint. Stencil out hearts or use washi tape and everyone can create their own design. Or, incorporate your creative time with your decorating needs as well. Last year, the kids made our place mats to go with our Valentine’s Day dinner. You can find other activities to do together here.
Set the Scene and share the love
The kids love decorating for holiday occasions, and I think my daughter is happy to use any excuse to pull out her markers and scissors to create. If you don’t want to purchase decorations, you can make them! Make a paper garland or make hearts to tape onto the wall.
Don’t forget to take the time to share with each other some kind, loving words. You can ask each family member to write something kind about another person to put on the paper hearts you make, or leave special notes at each place setting for your family. They’ll love it!
Remember, Valentine’s Day is just one day. Showing each other how much you care can be done any day of the year. Sometimes, it’s just nice to use a day like this as an excuse to do something special. I also like any reason to give or get chocolate.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
