
With easy-to-make solutions for cards, bouquets and treats, Kate Farr looks into celebrating Valentine’s Day with the whole family
PHOTOS COURTESY OF Pexel
There’s nothing (aside from coffee) that makes the world go round quite as much as love, and February 14 is all about celebrating those warm and fuzzy feelings with the people who touch your heart the very most. And while your pre-kids Valentine’s Day routine may have included candlelit dinners, chilled champers and lavish lingerie, it’s still possible to embrace that loving feeling with small people in tow.
DIY LOVE LETTERS
It first became customary for lovers to exchange handwritten notes back in the 18th century, when Valentine’s cards would be cut into heart-, dove- and cherub-shaped outlines and finished with lace. These days, February 14 sees us showering our loved ones with cards and gifts. It’s jewellery for the ladies, of course, preferably the sort that comes in little Tiffany Blue boxes.
TOP TIP: Encourage children to hand-decorate a card for the person that they love and admire the most – be this a family member, teacher or friend. Add to the fun by encouraging them to send their message anonymously, leaving the recipient to guess who their secret admirer might be. A fun twist for little ones is to sign their name in invisible ink, (make this at home by blending water with lemon juice); they can then provide a few cryptic clues as to their true identity. The grand reveal can be achieved by simply holding the paper up to the light.