Nothing like being a last minute parent, am I right? Typically, my last minute parenting means I’m running to the store at 10 pm the night before something is due. Christmas cookies, Valentine’s Day cards, you name it, I buy it. I’m not much of a maker because it takes me far to long to get ideas from my head to final execution. It’s just not my gift, and I’ve accepted it.
Free Valentine’s Day Printable
However, this year, I really wanted to make use of things we already had instead of just buying it all. Valentine’s Day is such a small holiday, but it can have so much meaning in elementary school. I’m grateful my girls’ classes only participate in this holiday if everyone in the class wants to participate. No one gets left out of getting a Valentine from anyone else.
I realize life won’t always be like that, but while they’re small, I want school to be a place of happy memories for them, and this is one of the ways it can be.
Their school is very sweet, and I’m so grateful for it.
Valentine’s Day Printable Inspiration
Valentine’s Day is always on the 14th of February, but it isn’t always close to Mardi Gras. For the last few years, Valentine’s Day has been right on or right around the fun festival of Mardi Gras.
Remember when we went to Mardi Gras this past year? Well, as much as I want to be the cool mom and let my kids keep all their throws, we clearly don’t need 5 million bead necklaces in our house.
That’s when I was struck with a great idea. Why not combine these two life events into one?
Combining the Holidays
First, I had to think of a cute way to combine the two ideas. Was I going to focus on the Mardi Gras aspect? Would I keep the traditional colors of Valentine’s Day?
I was inspired by the word “throw,” which is both a noun and a verb when it comes to Mardi Gras.
In case you’re unfamiliar, a “throw” is a prize (toy, candy, Moon Pie, etc.) thrown from a parade float. Thus my inspiration for our Valentine’s Day printable.
Make It Your Own
I realize not everyone recognizes or celebrates Mardi Gras, or Valentine’s Day for that matter, but using this printable will help you accomplish two goals:
- Get all those throws out of your house.
- Help your kids have enough Valentine’s for their entire class (and then some).
Who wouldn’t want to accomplish those goals? Sound appealing? Then click here to download your FREE copy of my Valentine’s Day printable.
Tips for Making Yours
- Print on cardstock. It’s firmer and easier to cut.
- Leave a white edge around the card or don’t. Completely up to you on that one.
- Attach beads or other small items to the card with tape or staples. I tried to staple the bead necklaces, but it was awkward, so tape it is.
- Have your kid(s) sign their name(s) before you attach the prizes. Again, it’s less awkward for you this way.
Happy Valentine’s Day, y’all!