Parents Make the Difference

Boost your child’s skills with Valentine learning activities

W hat do most preschoolers love about Valentine’s day? They love the colors, crafts and candy. And while it’s best to go easy on the third, you should take this opportunity to revel in the first two with your child.

Here are a few learning activities that you and your child can enjoy while celebrating Valentine’s Day this year. Not only will they help you celebrate the holiday, they will help your preschooler build some important skills:

Build math skills in the kitchen by baking some heart-shaped treats. With heart-shaped cookie cutters or molds, you can help your child make cookies, cakes, even heart-shaped bread. Let her help you with measuring and mixing. When the treats are cool, let her spread icing on them and top them with red, white and pink sprinkles.
Spark creativity by making cards for family and friends. There’s no need to fuss or buy expensive materials. Your loved ones will appreciate one of your child’s drawings, tucked in an envelope. Help her make an X and an O at the bottom of the picture to symbolize a kiss and a hug for grandma or another relative.
Sharpen observation skills by going on a “heart hunt.” Take a walk with your child or take her on errands with you. While on your way, challenge each other to see who can find the most hearts.
Boost language skills by creating rhymes. The words Valentine and day are both easy to rhyme. Help your child think of some rhyming words for each. Words like fine, mine and shine rhyme with Valentine. Words like play, say and way rhyme with day.
Encourage reading readiness by reading books about Valentine’s Day and love. Snuggle up with your chid and share books such as Valentine's Day written and illustrated by Anne and Lizzy Rockwell; Queen of Hearts by Mary Engelbreit and Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney.