These days weekends can have more on the to-do list than workdays, but it still seems like there’s more space to relax and have fun. With Valentine’s Day coming on Monday a fun project might be making and creating valentines. It’s also a great way for some kindergarten readiness learning.
For toddlers just holding and using crayons and markers to make a few lines is a start to using writing tools. For a simple valentine, adults can cut out a heart shape for little ones to ‘decorate’. By printing their name on a valentine older kids are beginning to communicate with print. This is quite a step for kids to go from only communicating by talking to be able now to communicate with paper, pen, and words, even if it’s only their name. If your child is ready, s/he may want to copy something that you write for them. There’s no doubt that Valentine’s is a fun time of year, but it’s also a very special time for helping kids learn to communicate on paper. Instead of being another item on the to-do list, it’s a fantastic learning activity.
Knock, knock. Who’s there? Emma. Emma who? Emma hoping to get lots of valentines!
What suggestions do you have for making valentines with little ones?