The Hallmark holiday that has everyone scrambling to find a special someone to celebrate with is quickly approaching. Whether it’s a date to the Valentine’s Day dance or a simple letter from a kid on the playground, finding love seems to be something we desire at all ages.
From the first kindergarten crush to the first real date, we know that you’re preparing your child for Cupid’s inevitable arrow. Here are a few tips to help your child with their Valentine’s Day plans, no matter how old they are.
Elementary School
Keep Calm and Make a Card
The first time your child comes home to tell you about their crush, play it cool. Puppy love is usually short-lived, so the easiest thing to do is help them create a nice Valentine’s card for their crush. This is an innocent and simple way to let your child express their feelings while having fun.
Schedule a Playdate
Their first real date probably won’t happen for quite a while, but letting your child spend time with their crush is an adorable way to watch them wrap their little minds around love and affection. If your little one has their eye on someone special this Valentine’s Day, it’s totally fine to collaborate with other moms to schedule some playtime. Who knows, the other moms may have wine!
Middle School
Give Them Space…But Not Too Much!
Watching your child become an independent person is one of the many satisfying things about being a mom. Although you are proud to watch them mature, you know they still have a lot of learning to do. If your child wishes to go on a date with their Valentine, make sure you pick a place that is easily supervised. Public places such as a movie theatre or a bowling alley will let your child feel as if they have their space, while also giving Mom peace of mind.
Prepare for Heartbreak
Heartbreak is something that no one ever wants to experience, but as a Mom you should face reality and prepare your child for the possibility, especially in middle school. Their Valentine’s crush might not always work out, which means you should be there to remind them about all the other fish in the sea… and that they can have plenty of platonic Valentine’s Day fun with their best friends.
High School
Help Them Plan Something Thoughtful
All of your hard work as a mom has paid off and your baby is ready to experience romance on their own. Their first date is a huge milestone and we know you don’t want to miss it, but high school might be a good time to let your child have an unsupervised date. Helping your teenager plan a thoughtful Valentine’s Day date is a great way to stay involved without smothering them. Help them get creative and make this Valentine’s Day one to remember.
One-on-One Time For Mom
Just because your baby has started dating doesn’t mean they are too old to spend a little one-on-one time with Mom. Make the big date special by helping them get ready for it, whether it’s getting a haircut, buying a new outfit or simply pumping them up over lunch. This special time is something your child will never forget. Helping them prepare for their date will also help you get used to the idea of your baby growing up and dating. Grab your tissues Mom, because this Valentine’s Day might be one heck of a tearjerker for you.
