By Shara Lawrence-Weiss of Mommy Perks!

(Tweeted by Shara Lawrence-Weiss on Friday, January 29th).

Tip #1: Teach your kids or students about the history of V-Day & where it came from! http://tinyurl.com/btzdwh

Tip #2: V-Day can be hard for those who don’t have someone special. Be empathic of your friends/family in that situation.

Tip #3: Article for those dealing with V-Day depression: http://tinyurl.com/yf68zp8 (it’s very real, yes!)

Tip #4: I like to say that V-Day is just another day to show the love we should be showing EVERY day. Only…with chocolate

Tip #5: If you are a single parent, do something special for your child(ren). Make a nice breakfast, make a craft, go for lunch, etc.

Tip #6: Have kids or students? Here are 7 V-Day crafts to choose from: http://tinyurl.com/yhejvvg

Tip #7: Don’t feel as though V-Day needs to cost a lot of money. Eat a picnic lunch or dinner in the living room, etc. My kids love that!

Tip #8: Word of advice: Don’t make V-Day your FIRST date with someone. Trust me on that one. Learn from my past mistakes

Tip #9: Sensory activity for kids on V-Day (adjust accordingly for special needs)

Tip #10: V-Day is a great day to get kids expressing feelings in an appropriate way. Use communication cards if you can.

Tip #11: “The greatest thing a FATHER can do for his children, is to love their mother.” (Great quote…perfect for V-Day, too!)

Tip #12: Back when I was a single mom I made homemade gifts for my son on V-Day. I wrapped them up, too. Then he made me some in return (great lesson on thoughtfulness!).

Tip #13: If you have time, write a few V-Day cards for people you know will be feeling lonely that day. Mail them out! This will be appreciated!

Tip #14: If you know a Senior who lost a spouse, stop by, call or send a note on V-Day. Something simple & kind to let them know you care.

Tip #15: Do you have a Senior Center or Home near by? Consider taking your family there on V-Day to volunteer and spread some cheer. Bring cookies!

Tip #16: Do you know a single mom or dad in your neighborhood? Drop some cookies by or a nice little treat, saying you appreciate their strength.

Tip #17: Ask your kids or students to explain what V-Day means to THEM. Let them open up, talk, express feelings (even their hurts, yes).

Tip #18: Families and love come in all different shapes, sizes & situations. Don’t feel as though there is one “Norm” – there is not!

Tip #19: Can’t afford gifts? That’s okay. Write out a note for each person in your family telling them what you love & appreciate about them.

Tip #20: In closing – remember that V-Day is not really a ONE DAY experience. Show love to others daily. Don’t save it all up for ONE day

 Thanks Shara!!