Holidays are always fun for children. You as a parent can get involved in the festivities with out spending a fortune!
Here are some simple arts and crafts and a CHEAP snack idea to try with your child this Valentine’s Day.
Refrigerator Magnet
Check the local Arts and Craft stores, such as Hobby Lobby for discounts as the big day gets closer. I found this photo magnet kit for less than two dollars, at a 40% off markdown. And! This kit makes 15 magnets!
Homemade Valentine Cards
While you are at the craft store, veer away from everything marked Valentine’s Day and head to the arts and crafts section. There pick out pieces of pink and white felt, and seasonal color paper, for cheaper than you would find in the holiday section.
We used the felt to cut out heart shapes and glued them to folded construction paper. This can be an independent art project or one you can get your fingers involved as well. Homemade cards are perfect for Grandparents, and don’t forget to slip in some original artwork and recent photos of your little artist. Top it off with a sweet message like
“You’re the GRANDest Valentine!”
Games
Make your own bean bag toss that will get Cupid active!
I bought a single sheet of red poster board and cut out a simple heart shape. (79 cents!) Then I let my toddler decorate it with heart shaped stickers. This is a great activity to develop those small motor skills. I used pieces of fabric that I had in my sewing basket to sew up bean bags. (Free) Just cut four even squares of fabric and sew by hand or machine three sides, fill with beans or rice then sew up the top!
If you don’t have extra fabric laying around, you are sure to have stray socks that lost their mate long ago. Round up those socks, fill up with beans or rice, and tie a knot in the end, instant bean bags! (Free)
Have your child or children take turns to see who can get closest to the center of the heart, or allow them to come up with creative ways to play with it on their own.
Snacks
After all of this messy art fun and running around, your child will be wanting a snack. Offer this wiggly favorite, Jello hearts!
I found these adorable heart shaped ice cube trays at the Dollar Store. I bought red jello (generic brand tastes just as good) followed the usual instructions and poured it into the tray. After setting for awhile in the refrigerator we popped them out and enjoyed them!
All of the above cost me almost less than five dollars! More than that it has provided quality time with my child. That is something you can’t put a price tag on.
Happy Valentines Day!
