When it comes to easy kids’ valentines, my goal has always been to keep things as simple, fun and affordable as possible. This year, check out some of my tried-and-true tips to make this holiday one you can actually look forward to!
With four kids, I have had to prepare up to 100 Valentine’s Day cards to hand out for classroom parties. Seriously. Now that the kids are older, though, I am not burning the midnight oil preparing the best Superman cards I can find. The pressure is off me. Instead of stressing out, I can now work on making this holiday fun.
Valentine’s Day used to mean flowers, candy, and date nights. For many families with younger kids, now it means class parties, finding nut-free heart cookies and a late-night glass of wine with your spouse. And honestly, I’ve always been ok with that trade-off. With teenagers, we actually have a whole Valentine’s Day weekend planned! I can’t wait!
For those of you still in the thick of it with small children, you, too, will get through this stressful period. And then you’ll miss it! In order to embrace the loveliest of holidays, check out these 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 much 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, 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 can 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. Help them be ok with 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, I worry too much about what people think, what other moms are doing, and what else I could be doing. Instead, I encourage younger moms to try their best to just stay in the moment. Overthinking can rob me (and you?) of the joy of right now. My kids will never be between the ages of 12 and 7 again. And neither will yours. I won’t have to attend another 2nd-grade class party, but maybe you can? It is such a cliche, but it remains true: IT. ALL. GOES. SO. FAST.
What are your kids valentines tips? Do you have crafts or recipes you plan to make? Share away!
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