Make Your Own Valentine's Day Gifts

Baby Feet Valentine's Day Card
This unique card will become a cherished keepsake for parents and grandparents. When she's older, your baby will enjoy seeing how tiny her feet were. You will need colored paper, non-toxic washable finger paint, and markers or crayons.

Fold a piece of colored construction paper or cardstock in half to make a card. (Remember to consider using acid/lignin-free paper if you are concerned with the paper fading). Gently dip the baby's feet into the paint. Press the left foot onto the card, the heel in the center of the page with the toes pointing out toward the top left corner. Press the right foot on the paper with the right heel pressing directly on top of the left heel. The right toes should point out to the right top corner. Let this dry thoroughly.

The feet impressions should resemble the wings of an angel. Draw an angel's face and halo right above the heel imprint (between the two feet). The inscription on the front of the card can read: "Happy Valentine's Day from Daddy's Little Angel."

Fingerpainting for Valentine's Day
The use of non-toxic paints offers older babies endless possibilities for making discoveries and exploring. A bright pink heart picture is perfect for Valentine's Day and fun to do with your child using pudding paint. Mix one box of instant vanilla pudding according to directions on the package. Add drops of red food coloring to achieve the desired color. Hand on hand, help your baby fingerpaint onto freezer paper or paper plates. When dry, cut the paper into a heart-shape.

Fingerpainting is such an open-ended activity—the process of painting is more important than the finished project. Take time to tickle the senses—enjoy the feel of this paint, smell it, and if your baby tries to take a taste, it's OK. It's pudding!

CD Photo Magnet
This is a project that parents can make for gifts, and recipients can truly enjoy. Recycle old CDs (or the ones you get in the mail). Glue a picture of your child on the front, in the center. With a colorful paint pen, write "Your Love Makes My Heart Sing" around the disk. Decorate with cute little hearts, drawn freehand, or you can use stickers. Attach a small piece of adhesive magnetic tape (found in local craft stores) to the back of the disk. Just think: this project idea can be used for multiple holidays—just by changing colors and decorative designs. It's also a craft project that older children may enjoy making themselves.