Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be only for couples — it can be a warm, family-focused day that celebrates all kinds of love. Including children turns the day into a chance to make lasting memories together.
Instead of dining out, try a cozy meal at home. Decorate the table with heart-shaped confetti, fairy lights and battery-operated candles. Let the kids help set the table, make place cards or design a simple menu. You can even turn it into a pretend restaurant for extra fun.
Set up a card-making station with coloured paper, stickers, glue and markers. Kids can create cards for family, friends or teachers and, if they’re able, write a short note about what they like most about each person. It’s a simple way to encourage gratitude and creativity.
Baking together is a fun way to spend time and make treats. Try heart-shaped biscuits, cupcakes or a small cake. Children can help with mixing, cutting shapes and decorating with icing or sprinkles — and everyone gets to enjoy the results.
Create a “love jar” by having each family member write little notes about what they appreciate in others. In the days before Valentine’s Day or on the day itself, read the notes aloud. It’s a sweet, grounding activity that highlights the everyday things that make your family special.
For a low-key evening, pick a family-friendly movie that celebrates love in its many forms — friendship, family and kindness. Films like Paddington, Beauty and the Beast or Up are good choices that appeal to different ages.
If the weather allows, plan a simple outing: a walk in nature, a visit to a favourite park or a stop at a cosy café for hot chocolate. Use the time to talk about what love means beyond romance — kindness, friendship and family are all part of it.
Including children in Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to remove romance; it just broadens the celebration. Whether through a special meal, a craft, baking or heartfelt notes, making the day about family love can be just as meaningful.
