Valentine's Lessons We Hope Our Kids Remember All Year

What do we as parents want for your children? Happiness? A fruitful life?

Don’t we all want our children to grow up to become kind, thoughtful, responsible adults who make a difference in the lives of others?

As parents, how do we accomplish such a task?

Perhaps looking toward Valentine’s Day themes can inspire ways to help our kids grow up into the adults we envision in our favorite dreams for their futures. Can we not spread the important notions honored on Valentine’s Day throughout the rest of the year?

1. Get started by saying "I Love You" more often. In today's hectic world, we don't always stop to say “I Love You” enough. It’s as important to say it as to hear it. If we want our kids to express their love freely and say it more to the people who matter to them, it starts with the example we set as parents. So, if we remember to say “I love you,” chances are our children will, too.

2. Make time throughout the year, not just on Valentine’s Day, to do something nice for the people you love. It doesn't have to be flowers or chocolates, but anything that will make someone smile – a thank you note for a favor done, a donation in their name to their favorite charity, a plate of sandwiches on moving day. Giving of yourself is often the greatest gift. Get your children involved and they will learn how satisfying it feels to do something nice for someone else any time of year. Be sure you show them the gift of an item or action is the best part of giving when it is made without the expectation of receiving something in return. There is truth to the old saying that it is better to give than to receive.

3. Enjoy yourself often. Life doesn't always have to be serious. Today’s Valentine's Day activities are often meant to be silly and sappy, not to be taken seriously. Approach life this way and have fun with it. And take your children along with you.

4. Help your children find pleasure in the small things. On Valentine's Day, we're happy with a few chocolates or pretty flowers. If our children see life is not all about material items, they, too, will take the time to stop and enjoy simple pleasures.

5. Remember, everyone, male and female, can use a few more hearts in their life. If they are on the list to show our affection on Valentine’s Day, they should be on that list every day of the year. If your kids see you expressing your affection to your loved ones on a regular basis, that will become their example to follow.

Valentine’s Day is a day of hearts and giving. We can help our children make it last all year.

About the Author:
Jennifer Kirkpatrick is a busy mom of two and an entrepreneur who creates and sells unique items for kids of all ages. Visit her online store Pipsqueak Boutique for great baby gifts. And check out her clothing line, Define*Me Clothing for fun personalized kids clothes.