Valentine's gifts that don't cost a cent

Looking for easy ways to show your kids you care that don't cost a fortune? Valentine's Day is about love — not trinkets, not candy, and definitely not money. There are lots of ways to celebrate this sweetheart of a holiday that don't cost a cent. Here are a few love-ly ideas:

 

Get to their hearts via their bellies: Show your kids how much you care by whipping up their favorite treats and meals on Valentine's Day. Or for something special, start their day with this cute Valentine's breakfast of Heart in the Hole Eggs and Toast and finish it off with this Sweetheart Valentine Cake.  

 

Crafting your love: If your kids love crafts, carve out a few minutes on Valentine's Day to make these cute crafts that also make great gifts like these sweetheart necklaces, a hugbox, or these sweet Valentine barrettes.

 

Lovely playtime: Playing a Valentine's version of duck, duck, goose called "Be Mine," Valentine Hot Potato or get everybody's blood pumping with a Tissue Paper Heart Race.

 

Get local: All across the country, in towns large and small, you can find free Valentine's Day activities to share with your family. If you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, you could participate in the Love Your Lane Valentine's Day Bike Ride; in D.C., families can take part in the Midwinter Japanese Festival for Families; and in San Francisco you and your kids can participate in Operation Valentine sending valentines supporting active military and veterans. Do a Google search for Valentine's activities in your town to find out what's happening near you.

 

Love letters: Love letters aren't just for couples. Write your child a love letter that includes the top 10 reasons you love him/her.