6 Simple Ways Connect With Your Toddler this Valentine’s Day

When you hear the word Valentine’s Day you think red roses, chocolate, wine and maybe a nice dinner with your significant other, and yeah, that’s pretty much the epitome of the holiday, but it can be so much more than that. For our family, Valentine’s Day is all about love and connection. Daniel and I have never been big on going out to fancy dinners, especially since having children.  We would much rather stay home and make something fun, homemade ravioli is always a hit, and watch a movie. We do small gifts for each other and cute little Valentine’s Day baskets for the kids, I linked my gift, outfit, and toddler party guides below. Valentine’s Day can easily be a whole family affair, here are some ways I like to make Valentine's Day memorable for our family.

Crafting Together:

   Engage your toddler in simple Valentine's Day crafts. Create simple heart-shaped cards or finger-paint Valentine themed gifts for others. Crafting not only focuses on creativity but also allows for quality bonding time. It doesn’t have to be elaborate! We love straight forward crafts that let the kids create on their own without me having to hover over them. We especially like to make things we can gift to others.

Love-Filled Story time: 

   Pick out age-appropriate books that revolve around themes of love and friendship. Snuggle up for a cozy story time session, making the experience both enjoyable and educational for your toddler. Our current  favorite Valentine's Day books is "Llama Llama, I love you".

Special Treats:

   Bake heart-shaped cookies or prepare a fun snack together. Involving your toddler in the kitchen not only teaches valuable skills but also adds a sweet touch to your Valentine's Day celebration. This year we’re making Rice Krispie Valentine’s Day hearts to share with our friends.

Dance Party:

  In our house we have dance parties almost daily. To make it festive put on some Valentine’s Day kids music.

Create a Toddler-Friendly Love Jar

   One of Isla’s love languages is words of affirmation so creating a love jar is right up her alley. All you need is a jar, paper, and markers to write sweet notes on about your toddler. Isla’s eyes light up with joy whenever we read a note out of her jar. We even switched it up and let her make a family love jar. I asked her to tell me special things about each member of the family and I wrote it on little notes to put inside the jar. Isla drew pictures to put inside the jar as well. 

Valentine's Day Photo Session:

   Capture the sweet moments by organizing a mini photo session. Dress up in matching or themed outfits and take a few pictures and videos that you can cherish for years to come. I do photo sessions for almost every holiday. It’s something that I really like doing and it’s like opening a little time capsule whenever you look back on prior years.

Whether you're crafting, reading, dancing, or simply enjoying each other's company, these simple yet meaningful activities can make this Valentine's Day truly special for both you and your little ones. Nothing makes me happier than seeing the look of pure joy on my babies’ faces when doing these little things.