How to Survive Valentine’s Day as a Single Parent
Valentine’s Day is a holiday centered around love. However, many consider it to be a holiday only to celebrate romantic love; you must be in a romantic relationship to enjoy the day. And for anyone who is single – it is only there to serve as a reminder that you aren’t in a relationship.
When you are a single parent, juggling full-time work and family duties, sometimes the last thing you can think about is a romantic interest. But, the candy hearts and flowers don’t have to make you cringe. Re-think Valentine’s Day’s, it is a holiday centered around love, and you should cherish all of the love you have in your life – from your children, family, community, and yourself.
How should you celebrate love, in all its forms, on this special day? Here are some tips on what to do to make it the best Valentine’s Day yet.
Cook a Special Meal With Your Kids.
Whether it be that dish you love but only save for special occasions, or quick and easy – Valentine’s Day is the perfect day to make something yummy for you and your kids.
Bring out the heart-shaped cutouts and baking pan! Making and decorating Valentine’s shaped cookies is something you all can enjoy. Or maybe pizza nights are your family’s favorite thing, make your own and cut the pepperoni into heart shapes. Hey, don’t just stop at pepperoni! You can turn cheese, Jell-O, even bacon into a fun Valentine’s treat.
A list of great Valentine’s Day recipes for you and your family to enjoy can be found here, link: https://armagazine.com/2T0Kcxk.
Do An Activity Or Something Creative.
Spreading love via holiday cards is a fun Valentine’s Day tradition, however, those store bought cards can be expensive. When you make them at home with your kids, for your friends, family and each other you are saving money and creating traditions together.
In addition to cards, you can get creative in other ways too! Here are a whole bunch of craft ideas to get you and your kids in the spirit, link: https://bit.ly/2RPQ4rZ.
Also, look for postings of activities within your community to celebrate the day. A lot of community centers and businesses will host craft nights, plays or shows, dance lessons, cooking classes and more.
Indulge in Some Self Care and Love
How often do you take the time to appreciate your own self? Make a list of all of the things that you appreciate about yourself, it seems silly but you deserve praise too and taking time to value and appreciate the aspects of yourself you admire is important. The famous saying “you are your own toughest critic” is true, but let go of your negative feelings and insecurities for the day and celebrate being you.
Everyone needs a little me time every once and a while, especially single parents. Practicing self-care is another great way to cherish yourself. Put on a facemask (you can even make one with ingredients you have at home), soak your feet in a warm tub of water, and relax. This is also an activity your kids can even partake in. Taking time for yourself to truly unwind will refresh and renew your spirit.
Celebrate With Friends and Family
Gather friends, family, and loved ones and remind yourselves how much you love each other. Enjoy a movie, get the gang together for a game night, or do an activity together.
If there are people who have supported you through your journey, make sure you take the time to appreciate them today. Toast to each of your loved ones and let each of them know what makes them special to you.
Love comes in all forms and Valentine’s Day is a day to stop and appreciate all of the love that is shared with you in your life. Whether you are creating new traditions, exploring your community or even just relaxing at home – be sure to teach your kids that love is something to be valued and to be shared. Valentine’s Day isn’t exactly every single parent’s favorite holiday, but by showing what the true meaning of love is your kids, and taking the time to value each other you can make it a day you all enjoy!
