Celebrating Valentine's Day with little ones doesn't have to include big gestures or loads of sugary goods. Instead it can be a small and cozy celebration in the form of cuddles on the sofa, a sweet little book, or simple creative crafts at the table.
If you are wanting to celebrate either family love, friendship, kindness or self-love, the below 4 books may be just what you are looking for. They celebrate love in the simplest ways and makes for a great read with the little ones even after the holiday season.
The Little Book of Love: 100 Ways to Say “I Love You”
A sweet little pick-me-up of a book perfect for dipping into at bedtime or leaving on the kitchen table for a daily reminder. It’s full of simple, heartfelt ways to show love through everyday actions (the kind that really count).
Love Block
A small but meaningful gift idea, something you can pop on a shelf, bedside table, or desk as a little “love note” that lasts longer than a bunch of flowers. It’s a lovely option for partners, friends, grandparents… or even as a self-love reminder.
In My Heart
This is such a beautiful book for helping children name their feelings. It explores all the different ways a heart can feel; happy, brave, sad, silly, calm, and gives little ones language for emotions in a warm, reassuring way. A brilliant read for building emotional confidence.
Peekaboo Love Sliders (Board Book)
Interactive, engaging, and perfect for tiny hands, this one’s a real winner for babies and toddlers. The slider mechanism makes it extra fun, and it’s a gorgeous little “I love you” story you’ll happily read on repeat.
Shop HereEasy Valentine’s Day cards (no fancy supplies needed)
This is a simple, low-mess activity that works for toddlers through to primary age, with plenty of room for them to add personality and make it their own.
What you’ll need
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Paper or card (any size—A4 folded in half works perfectly)
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Crayons, pencils, felt tips or paint
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Stickers (optional)
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Glue stick (optional)
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Scissors (optional, with adult help)
How to make them
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Fold your paper in half to make a card.
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Choose a “love shape” for the front:
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A big heart
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A bunch of small hearts
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A rainbow
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A flower
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A smiley face (because love can be silly too)
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Add a simple message (grown-ups can write it, little ones can “sign” it):
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“I love you because…”
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“You make me feel…”
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“Thank you for…”
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“You’re my favourite…”
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Decorate together, colouring in, stickers, fingerprints, or even a little collage from scrap paper.
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Finish with a tiny ritual: pop the cards in envelopes, deliver them around the house, or post them to grandparents.
A super-cute prompt for little ones
Ask: “What does love look like?” Then write down their answer inside the card. (It’s often funny, surprisingly wise, and absolutely keepsake-worthy.)
Make it a mini Valentine’s tradition
If you’d like to keep it simple, try this: - Pick one love-themed story to read together - Make one card for someone you love - Do one small act of kindness (a hug, a note, helping set the table)
Because the best Valentine’s Day message for children is this: love is something we do, every day.
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