Class valentines are always so much fun to give and receive. Typically, I’m a fan of the pre-made store-bought valentines (no shame in the game ladies). In fact, if this is the route you want to go– you do you! I love candy and pre-made valentines as much as the next person. However, this year I decided to try my hand at DIY class Valentines. Before I started, I told myself there were a couple of requirements for this endeavor:
My son has to be able to help.
This is not going to be just another class project I take on for him. I want him to be excited and proud to pass out the DIY class Valentines that he made for all his friends.
- Nothing will take more than a few minutes per Valentine.
There is only so much time in a day. I need a project that can create a fun after-school activity for my son without being too time-consuming. I am realistic about my son’s attention span and desire to do a detail-oriented activity.
DIY Crayons
I’ve done this activity with my kids before and love it as an idea for class valentines.
Our crayon bucket is ever-growing. Every time we go to a restaurant or an activity, we somehow come home with more crayons. This is a great way to make DIY class Valentines while you repurpose your “crayon tushies” (which is what we call the crayon nubs and stubs) so they do not go to waste.
-Preheat oven to 250 degrees.
-Put crayon tushies in a silicone mold. You can do any shape your child wants, but these heart-shaped ones are super cute. Fill the mold third quarters of the way.
-Place in oven for 8-10 minutes (again, time will vary depending on the size of mold).
-Once cooled, remove from mold and individually wrap.
“Pro” tip: Molds look best when different colors are used in the same mold.
Bookmarks from Paint Swatches
I love the creativity of this homemade Valentine! Go to your local paint store and pick up a bunch of paint swatches. Next, take a heart-shaped hole puncher and let your kid go to town! Tie a ribbon at the top for some extra pizazz for these DIY class Valentines.
Friendship Bracelets
Recently, my kids have gotten into making beaded bracelets. While bracelet making takes longer than most of the other DIY class Valentines, it’s one that your creative child will enjoy! Have your child personalize classmates’ bracelets with favorite colors. This will allow each child to feel special and recognized.
Homemade Treats
If your school allows you to hand out homemade treats, then I say go for it! Whether it’s a baked good or a Valentine’s Day trail mix, your kids will love making treats for their classmates.
Aside from the traditional cookies and brownies, here are some other fun Valentine’s treats your child can distribute to the class.
Valentine’s Chocolate Pretzel Bark
Free Printables
To be honest, I like to consider this category “pseudo” DIY class Valentines. I love a DIY activity where half of it is already done for me. Does having some of it done already take away from the DIY-ness? I think not.
I Think You are A-DOH-Able
I love this Play-Doh themed Valentine! Print it out and tape a small tub of Play-Doh to the printout.
I’m Blown Away by You
Who doesn’t love bubbles?! This is a great non-candy crowd-pleaser for all kids.
You’re the Balm
Admittedly, this one made me laugh out loud. It’s another easy one to print out and tape on.
You are Such a Cutie
This one is very polarizing. Some will love it and others…not so much. So, this one can either be a win or a lose depending on your kid. But if you have a fruit lover (which mine is), I say go for it!
Are you a store-bought or DIY class Valentines mom? What creative ideas have you tried?
Disclaimer: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates and other Affiliate Programs designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com, Target.com, Nordstrom, ABC Mouse, and other affiliate sites.
