Tired of the same old candy-filled Valentine’s Day celebrations in your child’s classroom? It’s time to think outside the heart-shaped box and explore creative alternatives that go beyond the traditional sweet treats.
We’re excited to share a treasure trove of non-candy Valentine ideas that will not only make your child stand out in the classroom but also promote a healthier and more inclusive celebration. From personalized crafts to clever trinkets, we’ve curated a list of delightful options that are sure to bring joy without the sugar rush.
Join us on a journey to reimagine Valentine’s Day in the classroom, focusing on imaginative gestures that leave a lasting impression on teachers and classmates alike. Let’s make this year’s celebration memorable, thoughtful, and, above all, candy-free!
Is your child’s classroom candy-free?
First of all, let me be clear that I don’t think that we need to avoid candy and treats on Valentine’s Day on some sort of principle. It’s a holiday! Treat it up!
However, I know that a lot of schools have rules about bringing food treats in for sharing so in the interest of making valentines safe for all kids, I’m all about giving out non-candy valentines for the classroom.
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Printable Non Candy Valentine Cards
We’ve found some really cute printable valentine cards you’ll want to include with your sweet gifts! We’ve linked to the coordinating card under the valentine gift idea.
Non-Candy Valentines for the Classroom
Bubbles for Your Valentine
Bubbles – My kids might pretend like they’re too cool for bubbles, but if a herd of bubbles floats their way there is no way they can resist running through it. Good, clean fun!
Need a bubble valentine printable? We’ve got you covered.
Crafty Valentines
Bendy Pencils – Every kid needs one so why not make it a fun bendy pencil?
You’re All Write free printable valentine for kids.
Play-Doh Valentines
Play-Doh – I’m not sure who loves a fresh can of Play-Doh more, me or my kids. Grab a 36-pack of assorted colors in 3oz. cans or a 50-pack of mini 1oz. cans.
These a-doh-able printable valentines work great with the mini cans.
Sunglasses Valentines
Heart Shaped Sunglasses – 30 little ones all rockin’ these shades is just too cute!
You Make My Day Bright printable valentine easily ties onto sunglasses.
Puzzle Valentines
Mini Puzzle Books – A fun, quiet activity for kids that parents just might stash for another day!
Slap a printable, sticky name tag to each book and you’re done!
Rulers – Fun, useful, colorful and the sort of thing we never seem to have around when we actually need it.
And yes, there’s a “You Rule!” printable!
Alternatives to Candy Valentines
Crayola Coloring Books with Uni-Creatures and Mer-Creatures or Crayola Crayons– Mostly because I think these “You Color My World” printables are too freaking cute for words.
Whistles – Parents will hate you, kids will love you. The true mark of a great gift if you ask me.
Plus, you gotta love a good pun with this printable!
Emoji keychains – My daughter would flip if these made their way into her valentine mailbox!
Don’t forget your emoji printable!
Dinosaur toys – Doesn’t every kid go through a dino phase?
Tape one of these dinos to the dinosaur joke printable valentines found here and you’re set!
Bouncing balls – These mini bouncing balls come in fun, neon colors (perfect for when kids lose these little guys, they are easily spotable)!
Bounce into this free valentine printable.
More Easy Valentine’s Day Ideas
- No-Sew Coffee Cozy – an easy Valentine’s Teacher Gift
- Cupid Crunch – A sweet and salty Valentine’s Day snack
- Valentine’s Nails to Try
- No Sew Coffee Cozy for Valentine’s Day
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