Are we the only ones who are still a little in shock that it’s already February – let alone that Valentine’s Day is less than a week away?!

In an effort to keep up with our resolution to be more mindful this year, we’ve decided to forgo the dollar isle goodies, and instead, focus on spreading love and kindness this Valentine’s Day.

Easier said that done, you say? Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered. 

Here are a few easy activities you can do with your little ones to make Valentine’s Day mean more than just sweets and treats: 

• Think beyond the candy. A little candy never hurts, of course, but what if your child could give a sweet, uplifting, personalized message to their friends or classmates instead? We released our Slumberkins Valentine’s Day Cards that come in a set of 12 and promote peer-to-peer positive affirmations. Sharing kindness and learning how to give and receive compliments are important social emotional skills that children – and all of us, really – can benefit from. This is a great way to make Valentine’s Day more intentional and meaningful. (We’re handing them out around the office, too!)

If you missed the Valentine's Day cards, we've got you covered! Anyone can download this free set of coloring sheets, that still send the same message to friends and family.

• Encourage family time. A night or two before Valentine’s Day, take some time to sit down with your little ones to work on Valentine’s Day cards together. If you purchased our Valentine’s Day Card set, or decided to print out the ones above, this is a perfect time to help your kids fill them out and to reflect on a kind thing to write to each of their friends or loved ones. Are your kids too young for school or aren’t participating in Valentine’s Day activities? No worries! Use this time to talk with your child and color, or you can read a Sleepytime Rhyme. It could be any activity, really. What matters to your child is that you are there with them, engaging with them. Even if it’s only for 20 minutes – it matters.

• Spread love and good cheer on Valentine’s Day! If you’re like us and enjoy getting into the Valentine’s Day spirit, then have a family dress up day and pull out your cutest red, pink, or heart-covered outfits. Adults can take it one step further! Give a compliment to a stranger at Target. Buy your best friend (or the person behind you in the drive through line) a coffee. Hug your partner a little tighter and let them know how much they mean to you. Because really, on a day that’s all about love, if your heart is in the right place, it’s going to be a good day.

We would love to see how you’re celebrating Valentine’s Day with your little ones! And don’t forget to show us your Slumberkins Valentine’s Day Cards, Coloring Sheets, and Valentine’s Day cuddles with your Slumberkins creatures! Tag us and share on social media using #iheartslumberkins 

From all of us here at Slumberkins: Happy Valentine’s Day to you and your little sweethearts! We hope the tips above help you to create a more meaningful – and intentional – Valentine’s Day.