What’s not to love about Valentine’s Day? Plenty, if you don’t get your act together for this favorite pastime. For kids, there’s nothing grander than exchanging those traditional Valentines with classmates, friends and family. And face it, you don’t really have an excuse for not being prepared. From card stores to grocery stores to drug stores, the shelves are lined with Valentine’s offerings that are ripe for the picking. While it may be convenient to simply stock up on cards and candy yourself, your little one is sure to love having the chance to do it with you. Take your child along and allow him to pick out the Valentine’s goodies. Set a budget. There’s definitely a selection from which to choose. If you’re more of a Sandra Lee type, get ready to get semi-homemade. Invest in construction paper, glitter, yarn, glue and scissors.

There are plenty of Web sites that offer free patterns and even cute sayings so that your child can make their Valentine’s from scratch. Talk about a gift that comes from the heart. This also makes for a great bonding activity for you and your child. For a crafty alternative, make chocolate bar wrappers with a special message. Purchase some Valentine-themed wrapping paper. Cover the chocolate bar. Cut a paper heart out of pink or red construction paper and write a special message on it. If you’re not the artistic type, you can always help your child print out his Valentine’s cards. Find a template he likes and get printing. To personalize the cards, have him write a message and sign his name.