Valentine’s Day is all about love, family and friends. From DIY gifts to special outings and brand-new traditions, it’s easier than ever to show you care. Get inspired by our list for a holiday full of magic and memories.


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1. Homemade gifts. With a little creativity you can come up with some great gifts the kids will love. A certificate for a “mommy and me date night,” or a coupon book filled with “get out of chores for a night” or “ice cream for dinner” are sure to fill your child’s heart with happiness.  And for adults, thoughtful handwritten letters go a long way to show your love. HVParent’s Pinterest Page has lots of great ideas too.

2. Decorate. Dig out some old love notes, those handmade cards from past years, and construction paper hearts from the pre-k days to decorate your home for Valentine’s Day. For new decor, create paper heart streamers just like you would with snowflakes. And even consider using dry erase markers to leave special notes on mirrors and windows.

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3. Start the day off with love. Heart-shaped cookie cutters are perfect for pancakes, sandwiches, and of course, cookies to make any meal of the day a little extra special. Add strawberries or red sprinkles to the plate for added pinch of love. Check out more easy peasy-recipe ideas for Valentine’s Day delectables here.

4. Acts of kindness. Chances are you are making or filling out your share of school Valentine’s anyway, so make a few extra to spread a little love! Have the kids decorate paper hearts to take to a local nursing home or fill out boxed cards to deliver to a local fire house or hospital. The kids will get a kick out of gifting a few hearts to unsuspecting strangers like a server, cashier or friendly neighbor. This sweet gesture will go a long way to spread a little love.

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5. Family time. You don't have to spend a fortune with toys and special treats for your kiddos. Quality time is a wonderful way to share your love. Set aside time to play your favorite games, take selfies with fun filters on Instagram, have a costume day or a day lounging in pjs with every pillow and blanket you can find in the house! Create silly memories, laugh a lot, and enjoy the day!

6. Dance Party. Any excuse is a good one for a family dance party! After dinner, clear the floor, kick up the music, and dance like nobody's watching! 

indoor play spots in hudson valley ;)

7. Baking cookies. Whip up a batch of your favorite cookie recipe, like some of these! Make a mess, enjoy the delicious oven aroma, and then relax with your fresh confections!

8. Crafts and DIY. Grab your supplies and paint hearts on rocks for a lovely walkway, or stamp paint hearts on tee shirts, or make unique heart ornaments with molding clay. Check out this list full of creative kid-friendly crafts.

9. Surround yourself with love. Whether you choose to stay home, go out, craft, or just relax, remember to surround yourself with love this Valentine’s Day. We tend to put a lot of pressure on ourselves to get the best gifts, make the best crafts, or turn our breakfast into the best heart shaped bacon our kids have ever seen. While it’s sometimes fun to go over the top, a simple “I love you” from the heart can mean more than anything else. Keep it in perspective, don’t stress over details, and above all else surround yourself with love.

Updated January 2024