We are really looking forward to Valentine’s Day this year so we can help my nieces and nephews put together some great gifts and treats made from the heart. While Valentine’s Day’s traditions used to mean gifts being shared between lovers, we know this is now an occasion for kids to share gifts and cards with classmates, parents, and hopefully their Aunties!

We plan to give the kids a few options of crafting this year. If we’re lucky, we’ll get to do all of these projects!

Ginger Snaps
This year, our special gift will be homemade Ginger Snap Cookies. They are relatively easy to make, healthy, and they will make the perfect gift wrapped in a bit of cellophane and tied with a red ribbon.

Baking is something that can be enjoyed by nieces and nephews of almost any age. Depending on how old they are, we give the kids various levels of responsibility. Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to bake if kids are looking to put together a little gift for someone they love and took the time to make.

Two Peas in a Pod Valentine
A Valentine is the essential craft for this holiday. Sure, we could go buy a pack of cards, but where’s the fun in that?

We came across this Two Peas in a Pod Valentine craft idea and couldn’t help but share it. This adorable card takes a while to put together, but if you ask us, it’s well worth it. Your niece probably doesn’t want to spend the time making one of these for every classmate, but you could help her make one for that special someone in class, her teacher or even her mom and/or dad.

Valentine Handprint Wall Hanging
This Valentine Handprint Wall Hanging is a perfect craft for your younger niece or nephew. As an Auntie, you will play a big part in assembling the wall hanging made up of materials that most kids have hanging around the house. The little one will get all the fun of dunking his hands in paint and leaving his mark.

Whether or not you chose to do one or all three ideas, your nieces and nephews will love spending time with you this Valentine’s Day. Let them be your someone special!

Andrea Donsky and Randy Boyer are co-founders of NaturallySavvy.com.

Published: February 9, 2011