DIY Valentine's Day Ideas for Celebrating with Family

By: Mollie Shauger | Thursday, February 11, 2021 | Child Care

Mom and daughter making cards with markers. Credit: iStock

Valentine’s Day often comes with expectations of candy, gifts, or dinner at a restaurant, but there are plenty of other opportunities during the holiday to build in time with a partner or spouse, kids, grandparents, and other family members.

The Metropolitan YMCA of the Oranges offers these ideas for making Valentine’s Day special with the family.

Have a family meal

Studies have shown that enjoying meals as a family can encourage healthier eating, but they’re also just a great way to connect as a family after school, work and other obligations. “Even one positive dinner a week can be very beneficial to both kids and adults,” states The Family Dinner Project. Catch up over an easy-to-assemble heart-shaped pizza for dinner, or enjoy a Valentine’s Day breakfast with oatmeal pancakes and fruit. 

Make valentines for family members

Get creative with some construction paper, stickers, glue, and other craft supplies you have around the house. Creating your own cards add a personal touch to the giving, and is a great way for kids to practice using words that show appreciation. 

Write “love notes”

Giving praise and encouragement is important in building a child’s confidence and self-esteem. Find a homemade project - like Valentine’s mailboxes - that involve the whole family and make a meaningful impact. The mailboxes are a fun way to collect positive sentiments throughout the whole Valentine’s Day week. Put the mailboxes in higher traffic areas so family members will see them and remember to write notes to put inside.  

Have a movie night 

Valentine’s Day falls on a Sunday this year and it’s a great chance for some extra family bonding over a movie. 

Volunteer

Show your compassion and love by giving back, right in the community. There are many simple acts of volunteerism the family can do, even if it’s just showing kindness to a neighbor.