What can I do with my kids for Valentine's Day to make them feel really loved and super special?
Let's start with some cute, simple, accessible ideas!
- Decorate a room in the house with red balloons, hearts, flowers, and stuffed teddy bears.
- Wear pink and red outfits together.
- Pull out construction supplies and cut out heart shapes and do crafts together.
- Have a sweet picnic - indoors or outside.
- Exchange homemade or store-bought valentines.
- Get dressed up and take them out to a fancy restaurant.
- Stay home and order a heart-shaped pizza from Papa John's or Pizza Hut.
- Help them hand-deliver a Valentine to their BFF.
- Read a love-themed book.
- Set out a dish of candy hearts.
- Put together a treat-filled charcuterie board for all-day snacking.
- Bake and decorate cupcakes or sugar cookies.
- Run a luxurious bubble bath for them to end the day!
Now, for the mamas who like to go EXTRA... If Valentine’s Day is your excuse to lean all the way in, here are some over-the-top ideas your kids will talk about for years:
- Create a Valentine’s Day “restaurant” at home.
Print a cute menu, let your kids “order,” and serve dinner courses like a real restaurant. Bonus points if you plays hostess and Dad plays waiter. - Set a full tablescape.
Lay out a tablecloth, cloth napkins, candles (battery-operated for littles!), flowers, and name cards at each seat. This alone makes the night feel unforgettable. - Dress to the nines.
Everyone dresses up – fancy dresses, collared button-downs, even costumes if that’s the vibe. A photo shoot is non-negotiable. - Surprise them with a limo ride.
Yes, really. Rent a limousine and take the kids out for dinner, dessert, or even just a drive around town. It’s wildly memorable and surprisingly doable for a short rental. - Host a “Valentine Morning Reveal.”
Valentine’s Day is on a Saturday this year, so you can totally pull this off and let the kids relish it. Let them wake up to a fully decorated dining room with balloons, a special breakfast menu, and a note telling them how loved they are. - Create a Valentine treasure hunt.
Hide clues around the house leading to little gifts, notes, or candy, ending with a final surprise. - Movie night… but make it fancy.
Printed movie tickets, a concession stand, cozy blankets, and heart-themed snacks served in real bowls. Editor's Tip: Luliet Bakery has thoughtful Valentine’s treat boxes that you can order and pick up ahead of time. - Write a love letter to each child.
Seal it in an envelope and read it aloud at dinner – or tuck it under their pillow that night. - Book a surprise experience.
Think horse riding (that’s totally my 11-year-old’s style), a pottery class, baking lesson, or a spa-style afternoon at home with robes, face masks, and nail painting. - End the night with a “yes hour.”
Let each child choose one special activity or treat (within reason) to close out the day.
