Valentine's ideas for families

Skype with long distance family members

Of course sending the typical card to family members you're far away from will be appreciated (as will a V-Day phone call), but video chatting makes your Valentine's exchange all the more special. Skyping is simple to figure out and best of all, it's free! If there are folks in your family that don't have a webcam, now you've got the perfect idea for a Valentine's Day gift. They're relatively inexpensive and will last a lot longer than a box of Russell Stover chocolate.

Family talent show

For the family that you're lucky enough to be near on Valentine's Day, organize a love themed talent show. The acts could be love song serenades or magic tricks with Conversation Hearts instead of coins. Even comedy acts can show the love if the ribbing is playful.

Breakfast surprise

Start your family's Valentine's Day off right with a special breakfast. Shape into hearts everything that you possibly can, like pancakes and toast, and purchase holiday specific décor such as placemats and a tablecloth. Keep the color scheme red and pink with lots of berries and food coloring. You'd be surprised at how much more fun milk is to drink when it's pink.

Scavenger hunt

This idea takes a bit of planning, but is a really fun afternoon, especially if you have little ones. Create a scavenger house around your house or entire neighborhood if weather permits. Prepare the clues so the answers are compliments to each family member. One could be "Jenny's gorgeous eyes are the color ____. Your next clue is near a chair in that shade." Another might read, "Frank is the sweetest five-year-old we know. Your next clue is in the cupboard where we keep other sweet things." The end prize could be a fancy feast for your brood or a basket full of Valentine's goodies.

Special treat

Make the day special by filling it with treats that your children make for each other. School will probably take care of creating paper valentines so focus on something more special. Perhaps your son helps you fix your daughter's favorite dessert. Or you could have your daughter rent your son's favorite DVD that the whole family will watch together after dinner.

Happy Valentine's Day to you and everyone special to you!