Valentine’s Day with little ones doesn’t need big gestures, themed outfits or elaborate crafts. At this age, it’s less about the day itself and more about the feeling… slowing down, sharing small moments, and leaning into connection in ways that feel manageable (and actually enjoyable).
These ideas are designed with babies and toddlers in mind. They’re simple, low-effort, and flexible enough to fit around naps, moods and real life. Think five-minute wins, not Pinterest perfection. A little intentionality goes a long way.
Below are some easy ways to mark the day, whether you choose one or a few, or spread them across the week.
We’ve created a free Valentine’s bingo printable designed for babies and toddlers!
All you need is a coloured printer and a pair of scissors. The game suits up to 3 players, and is great for learning colours and shapes while you have fun together!
Use a cookie cutter to cut hearts out of toast, pancakes or sandwiches. Serve with berries, yoghurt or a little jam and call it a “love breakfast.”
It takes five minutes, feels special, and works just as well on the couch as it does at the table.
Write a short note for each child about something you love about them and tuck it under their pillow or into their lunchbox.
This one lands emotionally (and costs nothing). For babies, read it aloud while cuddling — the words matter, even if they don’t understand them yet.
Set out a simple tray with paper, crayons, stickers and washi tape. Invite them to make cards for family, neighbours or grandparents.
No outcome required. Scribbles, stickers everywhere and half-finished cards are all part of it.
Cut hearts from coloured paper or tissue and stick them to windows using a little water or clear tape.
The light does the heavy lifting here — instant atmosphere with very little effort.
Cupcakes, pancakes or a small batch of biscuits with strawberries or pink icing. Keep it simple: one bowl, one bake, done.
Toddlers love helping, even if that just means watching and taste-testing.
Pyjamas on early, lights low, everyone piled on the couch. Choose something gentle and connection-focused, make popcorn and lean into the cosy.
It doesn’t need to be a “Valentine’s” movie — together is the theme.
Lay a blanket on the floor or in the backyard, serve snacks cut into hearts and call it a picnic.
Kids don’t care where it is — changing the setting is half the magic.
Write a few simple notes (“I love your laugh”, “I love our cuddles”) and pop them into a jar. Read one together before bed.
Older toddlers might want to add their own notes for siblings or parents too.
Hide paper hearts around the house and send them on a gentle treasure hunt.
You can write tiny messages or draw simple pictures on the back for an extra layer of fun.
A little note…
Valentine’s Day at this stage isn’t about teaching romance - it’s about modelling love in its simplest forms. Time, attention, softness, showing up.
Like most things in family life, it doesn’t need to be perfect. A craft abandoned halfway, toast cut into the wrong shape, a picnic that lasts all of three minutes… that’s real life, and that’s enough.
Save this for February, pick what feels right for your family, and leave the rest.
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