Sweet Treats & Kind Hearts: Spreading Love for Valentine's Day
Valentine's Day can sometimes get a bad wrap as a "Hallmark holiday" that's only designed to sell roses and boxes of chocolate. I, on the other hand, like to think of it as a designated day each year to spread some love in the world! You don't need a significant other to embrace the spirit of this love filled holiday.
When Jackie of Sprinkles & Confetti approached me about helping out with Valentine party for little girls, I jumped at the opportunity. She wanted to host something where the kids could have a great time, but also provide an opportunity for them to do something for the community.
With the theme of Sweet Treats & Kind Hearts, Sprinkles & Confetti has all of the party supplies you need to host your own version of the event and you can grab the printables from Elva M. Design Studio. Here's how to set up your very own craft station:
Project 1: Valentine Cards for the Community
What You Need
Blank Cards & Envelopes
Assortment of Stickers
Washi Tape
Markers
Baker's Twine or Ribbon
This project is a great way to teach kiddos about sharing the love and giving back to their local communities. To set up this station, I purchased a pre-made set of cards from Michaels that already included envelopes. I also picked up a mix of pink and red patterned washi tape to decorate the cards. I LOVE washi tape because it's a no-mess kind of supply and kids have a great time creating with it. It can also be re-positioned, so you don't have to be perfect when applying it on paper or other surfaces. And, it won't get stuck to your table like glue!
I also picked up some packets of foam hearts from Dollar Tree. Dollar stores have great deals on these types of supplies, including foam stickers, regular stickers, and more!
I divided up the cards and tied up a few cards and envelopes using baker's twine from the Target One Spot to create a pack for each party attendee. I also had a collection of colored markers for the kids to use as well.
Most children's hospitals and nursing homes willingly accept Valentine items. Check out websites of facilities in your area and if you can't find information online, just pick up the phone and find out the information you need. You can usually mail them in if you aren't able to make the drop-off, but that can be a fun adventure, too!
Project 2: Wood Clipboard Photo Frame
What You Need
Plywood (Cut to 5x7 pieces)
Mod Podge
White Paint
Foam Paint Brushes
Pencils
Scissors
Assorted Paper
Metal Clips
Hot Glue or Screws
The kiddos need their own Valentine fun to keep, too! What better way to celebrate love than to create a frame to display a photo with friends or family?
First, you'll need some plywood cut to 5x7 rectangles. We had some scrap wood, but you can always go to your local Home Depot and they will even cut the wood for you if you don't have a saw at home to do the job. You may also want to cut a few extra in case there are any project mishaps. It's always good to have some extra supplies around. Make sure the edges are sanded and they are clean of saw dust.
First, paint one side and edges of the wood white using white paint. You can use tempra paint, acrylic paint, or chalk paint. All three dry fairly quickly. Or, you can skip this part for a natural wood look.
Once dry, have the kids trace the rectangle onto their choice of patterned holiday paper. Michaels has a great selection of these packs of paper. If you think tracing might be more difficult, you could have these pre-cut as well.
Using scissors, cut out the traced rectangle. Next, put a coat of Mod Podge onto the wood and help the kids get the paper on smoothly. Rub out any air bubbles and add another layer of Mod Podge on top, again watching for air bubbles.
Once dry, help the kids attach the metal clip using a hot glue gun or use a drill and a screw. Both require some adult help!
Each kiddo will have one to take home! You could also take a photo of the group and send a copy with a thank you card after the event. It would be a perfect way to commemorate the fun day!
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