Valentine's Day Foster Children Art ideas

Helping Your Foster Child Feel Loved and Special on Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s day is a day to celebrate love. So it’s important to show the people in your life how much they mean to you. Although it’s important to show your foster child love and support every day of the year, some foster children may be feeling sad or anxious on Valentine’s Day so it’s a great time to make an extra effort to make sure your foster child feels special. Whether you have a long-term foster child or are providing short-term care, here are some great ways to make your foster child feel loved this Valentine’s Day.

If you’re interested in foster care, please reach out to Orchard Fostering today. We’re available on the phone or via email – you can also fill out a form directly on our contact page.

Valentine’s Chocolates

One thing’s for sure, stores will be full of chocolates ahead of Valentine’s Day. Why not surprise your foster child in the morning with a chocolate or two or add some into their lunch box for a welcome treat for them to find later. It’s a small but thoughtful gesture and one that will make them feel extra special on the day.

Valentines Cards

A fun activity you can do ahead of Valentine’s Day is spend some quality time together making cards for the important people in your foster child’s life. Gather some glitter, colourful paper and get creative with different designs. You can look up inspiration online or let your foster child come up with their own designs. Think of some unique Valentine’s day rhymes to add a personal touch to these cards. These can be made for teachers, other family members, friends and neighbours.

Arts and Crafts

Why stop at Valentine’s Day cards? Get some extra crafts materials and make some unique gifts or keepsakes. Create some fun designs to decorate the house for Valentine’s Day or go even further and design pillowcases, decorate a scrapbook or make some scented candles with your foster child. After creating something special together, your foster child will have a great memento of your time together.

Bake Some Valentine’s Cakes And Treats

Valentine’s Day is a great excuse to indulge a sweet tooth. Stock up on some baking essentials and spend an afternoon rustling up some Valentine’s Day cookies or cakes with your foster child. It’s extra fun to spend some time decorating your creations afterwards. Use some sprinkles, candied hearts, or cherries to top off your handiwork. If you don’t have time to bake together, get some Valentine’s Day treats from the store and make it a family occasion to enjoy them together.

Watch a Film Together

This is a perfect activity if you’ve had a long day but still want to spend some quality time with your foster child to make Valentine’s Day feel special. Make some popcorn or prepare some Valentine’s Day baked goods and get a comfy place on the sofa. Choose a movie that centers around family to help your foster child feel special. The Jungle Book, The Lion King, or UP are excellent choices.

Look Out For Signs That Your Foster Child Is Missing Their Biological Family

Of course, Valentine’s Day may stir some negative feelings for your foster child and may make them miss their biological parents and family. It’s important to let them know this is perfectly normal. It might help to suggest making some Valentine’s Day cards for their parents or writing them a heartfelt letter. Not only will this help any anxiety they may be feeling in their new home, but it will let them know you’re here to help them manage difficulties they may be facing.

Encourage Them to Share Their Feelings

Valentine’s Day is a day to celebrate love and emotions. This is a great opportunity to let your foster child know that all of their feelings are valid, even the uncomfortable ones. Encourage them to talk to you about any issues or troubles they’re having and show them it’s ok to open up. This will not only help them feel listened to but solve any issues before they escalate which helps to build resilience and self-esteem.