Making Sure Everyone Gets a Valentine
By Lisa Kothari
Kids head to school on Valentine’s Day truly excited! Usually, they have created a special box to capture valentines from all of their classmates.
When I attended primary school, there was a rule that everyone had to give all of their classmates a valentine to avoid hurt feelings. Yet, one year, I did not get a valentine from somebody in my class, and I was devastated. I remember making a big deal out of the situation, and I think it even got my classmate in trouble. (OK, I admit I was pretty sensitive!)
To avoid hurt feelings and this classroom quandary, take the following steps:
-Definitely help your niece or nephew make a valentine box to hold all of those cards. This will be a fun craft project, and the kids will have a central place to capture valentines.
-Ask if your niece or nephew can obtain a complete list of students so that you know the names of the kids in the class and can use this as a resource when filling out valentines.
One tip: You don’t necessarily need to address the valentines to particular names. If it is easier, count out enough cards for the number of kids in the class, add one or two more just in case, and have your nephew or niece sign his or her name on the cards. They can then drop them into the boxes without worrying about their classmate’s names. This works especially well with very young kids.
To make your life easy, consider getting the cards early and online.
A word of advice: These days, a lot of valentines come with a candy favor. Have your niece or nephew double check BEFORE buying treats to make sure they are allowed in the classroom.
These simple steps should avoid hurt feelings this holiday!
Photo: Phaitoon
Published: February 5, 2013