When it comes to kids valentines, easy and simple are two of my favorite words. This year I am once again partnering with Juicy Juice on this post to bring you some of my tried and true tips to make it as stress free as possible.
With four kids, I have had up to 100 valentine’s day cards to get ready to hand out. Seriously. Now that the kids are older though, they can help and it takes the pressure off of me. Instead of being stressed, now I can work on making it fun.
Valentine’s Day used to mean flowers and candy and date nights. Now it means class parties, finding nut-free heart cookies and a late night glass of wine with my husband. And honestly, I’m ok with that. In order to embrace the loveliest of holidays, I have come up with six tips to make this time of year much easier and more relaxing.
6 Easy Tips for Kids Valentines
1. Start early.
You know what you don’t want to do when it comes to making kids valentines? Wait until the last minute. Do not be the mom rushing through Target trying to snag the last few boxes of Valentine’s Day cards on the shelves. Start now. Like today. If possible, try to order the same cards for all your kids. It will just make your life simpler.
2. Make it fun.
This is one of those steps I tend to forget. I am all about crossing things off the list. However, I find that I can be stressed out and don’t always make it as fun as I could. Let yourself go and let loose a little with the kids. I adore this adorable mason jar craft from Juicy Juice. It’s a sweet way to get the kids crafting. Plus, the cars are totally useful!
3. Include treats.
Everyone likes treats, so look for ways to include candy or stickers or something fun with the kids valentines. Also, have snacks on hand when you are making those valentines. I keep Juicy Juice Juicy Waters in the refrigerator for times like this, when the kids need a quick pick me up but in a way I can feel good about. And, don’t tell the kids, but I drink as many of these juice boxes as they do. Who says moms can’t sip too?
4. Let the kids do it.
Ok moms. Put down the scissors. Set aside the glue gun. Stop doing the work your kids have the ability to do. Even 5 year olds can sign their own names. They won’t do it perfectly. They won’t do it like you would do it, but let them do it anyway. Be ok with perfect imperfection.
5. Keep it simple.
In order to let the kids make their own valentines, you have to keep things as simple as possible. The store-bought perforated-edged cards make it super easy. For those who want to get a little more original, think about using Valentine’s Day stickers to dress up paper hearts or store bought cards. Pink and red gift bags are excellent for collecting all the valentines the kids will get. Simple, remember?
6. Don’t overthink.
I am a big overthinker. I know that about myself so I am trying to change it. The truth is that I worry too much about what people think, about what other moms are doing, about what else I could be doing. Instead, I am trying my best to just stay in the moment. My kids will all never be between the ages of 12 and 7 again. I won’t have another 2nd grade class party to attend. Overthinking can rob me (and you?) of the joy of right now.
What are your kids valentines tips? Do you have crafts or recipes you plan to make? Share away!
