Once upon a time, Valentine’s Day was all about candlelit dinners and long-stemmed roses. While we’re still big fans of those things, the holiday takes on a different meaning once kids are on the scene.
These days, Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romance—it’s about showing your little valentines how much they mean to you, too. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some fun Valentine’s Day activities that the whole family can enjoy.
1. Count down to the big day!
If your kids love counting down to Christmas with an advent calendar (and really, who doesn’t?!) then they’re sure to be big fans of this cute Valentine’s Day countdown from A Pumpkin and a Princess. Each envelope could include a Valentine’s Day joke, an idea for a special family activity, a note to remind your wee ones just how much you love them—whatever you choose! Tip: this post uses a template for the notes, but you could easily substitute plain envelopes decorated with stickers and washi tape instead.
Visit A Pumpkin and a Princess for more details.
2. Get crafty
From glittery mason jars to heart-printed tote bags, there are plenty of Valentine’s Day crafts to brighten up a dull winter afternoon. Bonus: they make great gifts for parents and grandparents, too! Check out our list of 7 fun Valentine’s Day crafts.
If you’re looking to buy some art supplies or take a family-friendly class, visit our Art Classes and Supplies directory.
3. Whip up some special treats
If your family is trying to limit sugar, this chocolate-filled holiday can be a tricky one. But Valentine’s Day treats don’t have to be all about chocolate! Consider a special breakfast with heart-shaped pancakes, heart-shaped fruit kabobs and a perfectly pink smoothie. For even more ideas, check out our collection of 12 Valentine’s Day recipes the whole family will love.
4. Mix up a batch of Valentine’s Day play dough
You can’t go wrong with a batch of homemade play dough! We love this berry-scented recipe from Mama Papa Bubba, which is perfect for playing with at home or gifting to friends and classmates. It’s a great way to get kids involved in the kitchen, and playing with the finished dough is hours of fun.
Visit Mama Papa Bubba for more details.
5. Plan a Valentine’s Day scavenger hunt
Enjoy a little Valentine’s Day adventure with this awesome scavenger hunt that we spotted over at Skip to My Lou. With each clue, your kids can find little surprises like stickers, pencils, bath goodies, and more. Apart from being totally fun, this activity also helps your little ones strengthen their problem-solving skills.
Visit Skip to My Lou for more details and printable clues.
6. Make your own Valentine’s Day photo booth
Turn a corner of your house into a DIY photo booth with colourful streamers and a Valentine’s Day banner, and get ready to strike your best pose! Don’t forget the props—we like these goofy DIY “love goggles,” conversation hearts (just print and attach to craft sticks with a bit of tape), and kissy-face lips.
You could also get fancy and hire a Toronto photographer to take some Valentine’s Day pics of you and the kids.
7. Brighten someone else’s day
Be sure to spread some love to other members of your community on Valentine’s Day! You can perform an act of kindness as a family, such as shovelling the driveway of an elderly neighbour, or making valentines for the often-overlooked staff members at school (the custodian, secretary, etc.). Not only will it put a smile on someone’s face, but it also helps to teach little ones the importance of being kind to others.
There are also plenty of family volunteer opportunities in the GTA.
8. Enjoy a family night out
Skip the overpriced fancy restaurant this year and enjoy a date night as a family. Choose your favourite kid-friendly spot for dinner, followed by a night of bowling or mini golf. You can also keep it budget-friendly with pizza and a movie or board game night at home. Whichever route you choose, it’s a great way to celebrate your special family bond!
9. Cuddle up with a great Valentine’s Day book
After a long day of fun and excitement, cuddle up with your little valentines before bed and read a few sweet books about love.
On our reading list:
We Belong Together by Joyce Wan (Scholastic, $8)
Frozen: Anna Loves Elsa by Brittany Rubiano (Disney Press, $11)
Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney (Candlewick Press, $9)
Love from The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle (Grosset & Dunlap, $11)
Here Comes Valentine Cat by Deborah Underwood (Dial Books, $20)
For even more fun activities and to get out and about in Toronto, check out our February Fun With Kids Guide to find out what’s happening around the city on Valentine’s Day and Family Day weekend!
Keep informed with all our February Events and find more fun activities to keep the kids busy by searching our After School Programs and Weekend Activities directory.
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