Valentine's Day is a holiday that is dedicated to celebrating love. Why not make it a family affair? You may not want to hire a babysitter to watch your kids, or perhaps your family is in need of some quality time together. Either way, spending the day as a family is a great way to reconnect and celebrate. Here are a few ideas for your family to ponder as you plan your Valentine's Day together.
Road Trip to a Park
One great way to spend Valentine's Day with your family is by going on a mini road trip. You've probably been spending quite a bit of time at home, so here's your chance to go explore in private and in nature. A road trip to a park would be a wonderful way to spend the day. Fill backpacks with water and snacks for the road, and be sure to bring an extra set of clothes. Be sure to bundle up and bring proper hiking shoes so your family can enjoy a day spent walking through trails and exploring nature. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy, and be sure to go over safety rules with your children. Over 300 kids aged 19 or under are treated in the emergency room for accidental poisoning in the United States each day, and you don't want your child to be one of them.
Host a Family Game Night
What's another way to spend Valentine's Day as a family? A classic game night. Dig out some board game favorites, and set up a table of games on your living room coffee table or your kitchen table. Whip up some snacks, like cheese and crackers, fruit salad, and veggies with dip, for your family to enjoy throughout the night. Board games like Chutes and Ladders, Life, and Mouse Trap as well as card games like Uno and Golf may be on the table. Your kids may even be able to convince you to play a round or two of Twister! Keep the night light, and be sure everyone has a turn at picking a game to play. Everyone will have a blast playing board games that may have been collecting some dust.
Decorate Valentine's Cookies
Nothing says Valentine's Day like desserts. Chocolate, cake, and cookies tend to be highly sought after treats that individuals gift to their significant other on the special day. Why not bring the dessert trend to your kitchen? Make some sugar cookie dough and have your kids help you cut out and bake heart-shaped cookies. Once they're cool, whip up some red, pink, white, and perhaps purple frosting. Some Valentine's Day-themed sprinkles, such as hearts, would be a fun touch, too. Your kids will have a ton of fun frosting these cookies. See if your children are allowed to bring Valentine's Day treats to school. Especially if they attend a private school, as 87% of them have fewer than 300 students, consider making some extras so your kids can share their treats with their close-knit classmates, friends, and teachers. It's a great way to spread love on the holiday.
Cook a Family Dinner
A romantic dinner is a common date idea for couples who are celebrating Valentine's Day, but you can certainly have a family dinner for the special day too. Get your entire family in the kitchen to cook dinner together. Assign everyone jobs to ensure everything is done correctly and on-time. Budget time to help younger children, too! You can choose something simple, like spaghetti and meatballs, or something a little more complex, like a chicken and pasta dish. Be sure to serve veggies for your family and to pick a meal everyone will enjoy. Playing some light but fun music as you cook together will make the experience even better Once the food is ready, have your kids set the table. Adding some Valentine's Day touches, like using red napkins and putting candles on the table, will make the dinner all the more enjoyable for your family to celebrate the holiday.
Rent a Projector for a Top-Notch Movie Night
90% of tax refunds are issued in less than 21 days, and if you're expecting a hefty one, you may be willing to splurge a little for Valentine's Day this year. Consider renting a projector so your family can enjoy a top-notch movie night. It will feel like your family is in a movie theatre in the comfort of your own home. Be sure to provide buttery popcorn and some fun fountain drinks. Candy may be a fun addition for your children, too. Pick a family-friendly movie that everyone in your family will love, and enjoy a Valentine's Day spent cuddled with your family on the couch.
As you celebrate Valentine's Day with your family, pick an activity everyone will enjoy. Remember to appreciate and make the most of your family time together.