The holiday that brings out the romantic in all of us, Valentine's Day will soon be upon us. It is a time to celebrate love. We remember to share a special gift with our spouse, but often forget this is yet another opportunity to share love with your children. Small children and even teen get a kick out of being remembered with something special for holidays. We once ran an Independent Living program where we put teens into their own apartments. On Valentine's Day, we tied a tiny box of candy hearts to a Valentines Day balloon and the whole thing to their apartment doorknobs. They loved it.

When I was a little girl and older, I awoke Valentine's Day to find several little white tissue- wrapped packages tied with red ribbon. Mom put some by my plate at breakfast, some in other parts of the house. These were not overpriced, useless, commercial- originating gifts, but just little thoughtful tokens that girls like. It was such a special treat, even when those items were very moderate. It was a sign of love and meant so much to me. Tiny items like school supplies, die-cast cars, nail polish, lipstick, new combs and toothbrushes, crayons etc. Just tiny reminders that say "We thought of you."

Part of being a family is to show each member you really care about each other. Tiny gifts, cards, and special treats help kids know they are loved and appreciated. It reminds them that families do nice things for each other. Don't forget your kids when you celebrate Valentine's Day.

Credits: Jo Ann Wentzel