Valentine’s Day isn’t just for the lovebirds out there; it’s a perfect chance for families to spend some quality time together, too. And what better way to enjoy each other’s company than snuggling up and watching a movie? The tricky part is finding films that capture the spirit of Valentine’s Day without being too mushy for the little ones. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.
Here’s a list of family-friendly movies that weave in themes of love and togetherness, making them ideal for a cozy movie night with your kids. From animated adventures that tug at your heartstrings to comedies that will have you all laughing together, these picks are sure to make your Valentine’s Day special.
1. Crafting Love-Themed Cards
There’s something special about handmade cards, especially when they’re filled with love. Gather some paper, markers, stickers, and any other craft supplies you have. Sit down with your kids and spend some time creating Valentine’s cards. These can be for each other, for family members, or friends. It’s a great way to spend time together and encourage your kids’ creativity.
2. Baking Heart-Shaped Treats
Baking is always a hit with kids, and Valentine’s Day is a perfect excuse to make some sweet treats. Think heart-shaped cookies, pink frosted cupcakes, or even a simple red velvet cake. Let your kids help with the mixing, decorating, and, of course, the tasting! This activity is not just fun; it’s also a chance to teach your kids some basic cooking skills.
3. Movie Marathon with a Love Theme
After all the crafting and baking, you might want a more relaxed activity. How about a Valentine’s-themed movie marathon? Choose some family-friendly movies that fit the love theme of the day. Don’t forget the popcorn and those baked treats you just made!
Here are some great options that are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults:
- “Lady and the Tramp” (1955): This classic Disney animated film tells a charming love story between two dogs from different worlds. It’s a heartwarming tale that teaches lessons about acceptance and love.
- “The Princess Bride” (1987): A delightful mix of adventure, romance, and comedy, this film is a timeless story about true love and bravery. It’s filled with memorable characters and quotes that families can enjoy together.
- “Enchanted” (2007): A modern fairy tale that blends animation with live-action, this movie is about a fairy tale princess who finds herself in modern-day New York City. It’s a sweet story about finding love where you least expect it.
- “Beauty and the Beast” (1991 or 2017): Whether you choose the animated classic or the live-action remake, this story of love and acceptance is a wonderful watch. It’s about seeing beyond appearances and valuing someone for their heart.
- “Wall-E” (2008): This Pixar film may be about robots, but it tells a deeply touching love story. It’s also an excellent conversation starter about caring for our planet.
- “Up” (2009): Another Pixar gem, “Up” begins with one of the most touching love stories ever shown in a kids’ movie. The rest of the film is an adventure about friendship and fulfilling lifelong dreams.
- “Shrek” (2001): A funny and heartwarming tale that turns the traditional fairy tale on its head. It’s about finding love and acceptance, and embracing who you truly are, and the humor will keep the whole family entertained.
- “Paddington” (2014) and “Paddington 2” (2017): While not strictly about romantic love, these movies are heartwarming tales about the love of a family and community. Paddington’s adventures are both hilarious and heartwarming.
- “Ella Enchanted” (2004): A modern twist on Cinderella’s story, this movie is a fun-filled adventure with a strong message about independence and standing up for yourself, mixed in with a sweet love story.
- “The Secret Life of Pets” (2016): A fun movie for younger kids, this animated comedy gives a hilarious look into the lives of pets. It’s more about friendship than romance, but it’s filled with heart and is a great light-hearted option.
These movies offer a range of love-themed stories, from romantic fairy tales to heartwarming tales of friendship and family, making them perfect for a Valentine’s Day movie marathon with the kids.
4. Dressing Up for a Fancy Dinner at Home
Who says you need to go out to have a fancy dinner? Dress up in your best outfits and have a special dinner at home. You can cook together or order from your favorite restaurant. Set the table nicely, maybe light some candles, and enjoy a lovely meal together.
5. Storytime with Love-Themed Books
If you have younger kids, reading books is a wonderful way to wind down the day. Choose some Valentine’s-themed books and spend some quiet time reading together. It’s a cozy way to end the day and a chance to cuddle up with your little ones.
6. Crafting a Love Tree
A Love Tree is a creative and meaningful activity that involves the whole family.
Here’s how you can make one:
- Materials Needed: Gather branches from your backyard or a nearby park. You’ll also need a vase, construction paper in various colors (reds, pinks, whites), scissors, string, and markers.
- Setting Up: Place the branches in the vase, creating a tree-like structure. This will be the base of your Love Tree.
- Making Heart Leaves: Cut out heart shapes from the construction paper. These hearts will act as leaves for your Love Tree.
- Writing What You Love: On each heart, have your kids write or draw something they love or are grateful for. It could be family members, a pet, their favorite book, etc. This is a great way for kids to express their feelings and focus on positive aspects of their lives.
- Decorating the Tree: Attach the hearts to the branches using string. You can also add other decorations like ribbons or beads.
- Displaying Your Love Tree: Place your Love Tree in a common area of your home. It serves as a beautiful decoration and a reminder of all the things your family loves and appreciates.
This activity not only adds a festive touch to your home but also offers a chance to discuss the importance of gratitude and love with your kids.
7. Organizing a Valentine’s Day Themed Treasure Hunt
A treasure hunt is always exciting for kids, and giving it a Valentine’s twist can make it even more special.
- Preparation: Create clues that lead to different locations in your house. Each clue should be Valentine’s Day-themed. For example, “Where we cuddle up for movie night” could lead to the couch.
- Treasure: Instead of traditional treasures, make each find a small Valentine’s Day-themed gift or activity. It could be a heart-shaped sticker, a small toy, or a coupon for extra bedtime stories.
- Setting Up the Hunt: Hide the clues in the appropriate spots around your house. Make sure the level of difficulty suits the age of your kids.
- The Adventure: Start your kids off with the first clue and let them navigate through the house finding each subsequent clue. The excitement of solving each clue and finding a small gift keeps the kids engaged and entertained.
- Final Treasure: The last clue can lead to a special Valentine’s treat, like a basket filled with goodies or a new book to read together.
This treasure hunt not only brings the excitement of exploration but also incorporates the theme of Valentine’s Day playfully and engagingly.
8. Valentine’s Day Themed Indoor Picnic
An indoor picnic is a delightful and unexpected way to celebrate Valentine’s Day at home with your kids. It’s simple, fun, and can be a memorable experience for everyone. Here’s how to make it special:
Setting the Scene:
- Choose a Spot: Clear a space in your living room or family room. Lay down a large blanket or picnic mat, creating your picnic area.
- Decorations: Add a touch of Valentine’s Day charm with heart-shaped cushions, red and pink balloons, and maybe some fairy lights for a magical feel.
Picnic Food with a Valentine’s Twist:
- Heart-shaped sandwiches: Use a heart-shaped cookie cutter to make sandwiches. Fill them with your kids’ favorite ingredients.
- Fruit Skewers: Make fruit skewers with strawberries, grapes, and melon. You can even include heart-shaped melon pieces using a cookie cutter.
- Sweet Treats: Include some Valentine-themed treats like pink cupcakes, heart-shaped cookies, or chocolate-covered strawberries.
- Beverages: Serve pink lemonade or a fruit punch in fancy cups to add to the picnic feel.
Valentine’s Day at home with your kids can be just as special and fun as any big outing. It’s all about spending quality time together and making memories. Try out these fun things to do with kids at home, mix and match them to suit your family, and most importantly, enjoy the love and laughter that comes with celebrating Valentine’s Day as a family.
