With Valentine’s Day around the corner, it’s time to get mentally prepared for the influx of sweets! No matter how hard I try to avoid it, it’s inevitable in a house with 5 kids, ages 2-14. From lollipops, to cookies and cakes – I know they’ll all come home with sweet treats from their friends on this day of love. And we all do love sweets! But, of course, too much of anything ain’t good for you! I hate to imagine how much we contribute to the childhood obesity epidemic every Valentine’s Day. So, here, I’ll share with you some healthy alternatives for Valentine’s Day, if your looking for something different to give to your kids and their friends.
Try themed gifts
If your child (or their friend) is into a specific activity, I’m sure they’d be thrilled to receive a gift centered around it. Here are some examples:
Swimming
If your child loves the beach or pool, you can gift them a Valentine’s or love-themed bathing suit/swimming trunks, beach towel, goggles, diving toys, pool toys, beach toys, floatie, etc. You can throw a couple things into a nice basket, and decorate it in red/pink or hearts.
Movies
A child (or adult, for that matter) who loves movies may love a collection of DVD’s, Movie tickets or gift cards to a local movie theater. You could also include popcorn and other snacks to eat during an at-home movie night.
Outdoor Fun/Sports
If you have a child who loves to play outside, gifts like bubbles, a jump rope, balls (for a particular sport), headbands, or small sports equipment will get them excited. Not only will they love it, but the physical exercise is good for them – and of course encouraged by your friendly Pediatrician!
Arts and crafts
From the toddler stage on up, crafts can be a lot of fun for both boys and girls. Gifts like crayons, markers, colored pencils, construction paper, glue, scissors, Play-doh, molding clay, paint, paintbrushes, etc. can really excite the little ones. Plus, it can keep them busy for hours!
Experiences
Of course, experiences go a long way! Rather than add to the clutter in your home, or the sweets in their belly – give them an experience they’ll love. A day out can create sweet memories that are better than any lollipop you could ever give.
Cards/Love Letters
Each year, I try to write something special to each of my kids on Valentine’s Day. It isn’t always long or fancy. Just something short and sweet to let them know how much I love them, and how special they are to our family. A personalized note can go a long way!
If you’re looking for easy way to show your kid some love this Valentine’s Day, you can download my FREE Love Notes For Kids here:
Instead of candy, try these!
- Nuts/trail mix
- Dried fruit
- Granola bars
- Fruit snacks
- Goldfish
- Pretzels
For older kids/teens:
- Lip balm
- Hair accessories
- Gift cards
- Ear buds
- Phone accessories
- Books
- Nail polish
- Lip gloss
- Wallet
For toddlers/younger kids:
- Stuffed animals
- Small toys
- Books
- Bath toys
- Clothes
Do you have any other fun, creative, healthy ways to show love on Valentine’s Day? Share them in the comments below!
If you’re a busy mom, remember to get your free printable “Love Notes For Kids” by filling out the box below. It includes 24 notes you can use to encourage your kids on a regular basis. You’ll also get access to my Resource Library with tons of helpful printables and checklists, plus my weekly newsletter to help you balance your many roles. Check it out!
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