Looking for exciting ways to help your child learn while celebrating Valentine’s Day? Whether you’re a parent or an educator,  try these fun Valentine’s Day activities for children to do at home or in the classroom. They’re easy to set up, help children grow through play, and build important skills.

Play with lavender cloud dough  

Lavender cloud dough is soft, squishy, and smells nice. Add cookie cutters, safe kitchen tools, and heart-shaped gems or sequins for extra fun.

Children learn how to:

• Use their hands and fingers
• Make shapes and patterns
• Be creative and use their imagination
• Stay calm with a sensory activity

Try it at home: Put the dough in a bin or on a tray. Let your child press and shape it, scoop it up, and decorate it.

Make friendship bracelets

Making bracelets is a fun craft that helps children show kindness to others. Use yarn or string, heart-shaped beads, pasta, and letter beads.

Children learn how to:

• Match colours and make patterns
• Spell names or kind words
• Be patient and take their time
• Show care by making gifts for others

Try it at home: Ask your child who they want to make a bracelet for. Talk about what makes that person special.

Build a heart-themed obstacle course

Obstacle courses are an excellent way for children to move their bodies and have fun. Use cones, beanbags, hula hoops, and heart cutouts to fit the Valentine’s Day theme. 

Children learn how to:

• Balance, jump, and move safely
• Follow instructions and solve problems
• Play fair and take turns

Try it at home: Use things you already have. Let your child help set it up and take turns going through the course.

Write and share “love notes”

Children can practise writing while learning to be kind. Use simple sentences like “I like when you…” or “You make me smile because…”.

Children learn how to:

• Use words to share feelings
• Write short sentences
• Be kind and thoughtful

Try it at home: Put the notes in lunchboxes, on the fridge, or hand them out to family or friends.

Learning through play

These fun Valentine’s Day activities for children to do at home or in the classroom are more than just crafts. They help children grow their minds, feelings, and bodies. Plus, these simple activities bring joy and learning together in a caring way.