5 Ways To Make Valentine’s Day A Family Affair

Well, Valentine’s Day is around the corner. I’ve tried hard to be all “This holiday is sooooo commercialized.” about the whole thing, but I just can’t. I love Valentine’s Day. Mainly because I love love. And yeah, we should really make EVERY DAY like Valentine’s Day. I get it. But for those of us who really get into the red and pink hearts and all chocolate everything, Valentine’s Day can be so much fun.

I found myself getting all bummed out over the fact that Valentine’s Day landed on a weekday and that my workaholic husband and I won’t have time to do anything — but who says that we can’t? Sure, the lovey dovey dinner deal sounds splendid and all, but I’d much rather not have to pay the babysitter and include our sweet baby girl in on the Valentine’s Day. There are plenty of ways couples and their kids can enjoy Valentine’s Day … together!

Craft Valentine’s Day cards for each family member.

For parents with big kids, a quick visit to the local Dollar Tree can result in a fun-filled hour or two of crafting fun Valentine’s Day cards. Have each family member design cards for each member of the family (pets included) and then get everyone to read their cards out loud.

Make a Valentine’s Day brunch.

My husband and I have made a tradition out of this, and we were doing it way before our daughter came along. I can’t wait to continue the tradition with her! We love making heart-shaped red velvet pancakes and eating breakfast on the floor. Get the kids in the kitchen and have them help you whip up something delicious. And to all of my gluten-free friends, if red velvet pancakes aren’t your thing, how about strawberry smoothies?

Have everyone dress in red and have a fun photoshoot.

I’m a first-time mom, so of course I go overboard with taking pictures …even more so during holidays. I love having the memories to glance at. You don’t have to be a professional photographer to capture pictures of your beautiful family. Get some cheap props (helllooo Target dollar bin), go outside and start snapping away. And don’t forget about you, Mom. Many times we’re so busy capturing the memories that we forget to get in on the pictures. Get your big kids to take pictures too, and enjoy viewing the shots from their point of views.

Spread the love to those in need.

What better way to show our kids the true meaning of love, on a day that surrounds love? Organizations like the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida and The Mustard Seed of Central Florida are always looking for volunteers. Spend the weekend after Valentine’s Day donating a few hours of your time helping those in need. Make a tradition out of it, and let the kids pick a different charity each year.

Do a scavenger hunt!

Valentine’s Day-themed scavenger hunts are loads of fun with couples, but can be even more fun with the kids. My baby girl is too young for this, but I can’t wait to make this a tradition for when she is older. The premise is easy … hide a few Valentine’s Day-inspired treats and goodies around the house and have the kids (and spouse) go a huntin’.

These are just a few ideas for us to lighten up the mood a bit on this sometime syrupy-sweet holiday … while sharing lots of quality-time-love with those who are closest to us, too! So let’s spread the love to everyone this Valentine’s Day weekend!