5 Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Traditions You Can Start with Your Children

heart, card, pastels

Valentine’s Day can be a great opportunity to slow down and think about the people you love. When I was growing up, my parents typically gave me a card and simple treats. It wasn’t anything fancy, but it made a huge impact because I was reminded of their love for me. The following blog highlights ways you can show your kids you care without breaking the bank.

Last Updated: 1/16/2022

1) Heart Shaped Notes on Their Bedroom Doors

This is my favorite tradition I started with my son last year! Simple yet full of love. I cut out hearts from paper (or you can use heart shaped post it notes) and then wrote something I love about him on each one. I taped them to his door the night before Valentine’s Day. When he woke up, we read the notes on each heart.

2) Valentine's Day Themed Breakfast

A look on pinterest can get you inspired to make a creative breakfast. Heart shaped pancakes and donuts are popular options. There are a few simple breakfast ideas here from the youtube channel WhatsUpMoms: https://youtu.be/p6aLhDRJwxk. If you don’t have time to make breakfast, there are several bakeries in the area that can help. Glazy Squares Donuts (two locations – one in Collinsville and the other in Edwardsville) typically have Valentine’s Day themed donuts. 

3) Create Valentine's Cards Together for Extended Family

This year especially snail mail is making a come back. It is a good activity to pass the time as well as spread the love to people in your family. If you want cute designs, stickers, and/or stamps, then check out the kits created by Happy Mail by Lyndsey. Check out the Happy Mail by Lyndsey facebook page to look at kit options. 

4) Make or Purchase a Heart Shaped Pizza

Heart shaped pizza for supper can be a great way to celebrate together. You can purchase ingredients for it at low cost and make it together. If there isn’t much time for that, pizza places near by have you covered. Imos Pizza in Edwardsville is offering heart shaped pizza options. Call or order online at imospizza.com. Dewey’s Pizza in Edwardsville sells dough balls and pizza toppings if you want to make your own. 

5) Do "Secret Santa" but with Valentine's Gifts

If you have a large family, this may be a great option. Each person draws a family member’s name and then comes up with a creative gift for them. You can set a price cap on it, do a cheesy gift theme, decide on traditional Valentine’s Day cards, etc. The possibilities are endless!