While older kiddos can enjoy the Thursday of Valentine’s Day by passing out cards and partying at school, younger children are still learning about love on the most heart-filled day of the year. Here are a few activities perfect for babies and toddlers to enjoy on Valentine’s Day.
Chicago
Valentine’s Playdate
When: Feb. 14, 3:30-5 p.m.
Where: Bubbles Academy, 2184 N. Elston, Chicago
Enjoy open play, Valentine’s card crafting, songs and stories. Families are invited to bring items for the Cradles to Crayons Supply Drive.
Valentine’s Day Photo Booth + Dance Party
When: Feb. 14, 10 a.m.-noon
Where: Monica + Andy (Lincoln Park) 2038 N. Halsted, Chicago
Enjoy cookies, snacks and a photo booth with live music from Tunes with Tim at the Lincoln Park location.
Free admission day
When: Feb. 14
Where: Field Museum, Peggy Notebaert Nature Center, Adler Planetarium, Art Institute, Museum of Science and Industry, National Museum of Mexican Art, Brookfield Zoo, Elmhurst History Museum, Fischer Farm, Wilmette Historical Museum and Lincoln Park Zoo.
Most Chicago-area museums offer free admission for Illinois residents on certain days, and luckily a few land on Valentine’s Day this year. A perfect chance for some educational fun and or youngsters to see these museums when the crowds are smaller on the weekdays.
Suburbs
Little Explorers at Lake Katherine
When: Feb. 14, 9:30 a.m.
Where: Lake Katherine Nature Center and Botanic Gardens 7402 Lake Katherine Drive, Palos Heights
Kids 3-6, with adult, learn why snakes hibernate, meet a corn snake and create a snaky project to take home.
Valentine’s Day Party at Rockin’ Jump
When: Feb. 14, 9 a.m.-noon
Where: Rockin’ Jump 485 Mission St., Carol Stream
Jumpers ages 6 and under only are allowed to the party complete with arts & crafts, kids activities, complimentary coffee and sweet treats and pink and red balloons.
Valentine’s Craft at Little Beans Cafe
When: Feb. 14, 8:30 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: Little Beans Cafe (Evanston), 430 Asbury Ave., Evanston
Enjoy a Valentine’s Day craft with food and time to play at Little Beans Cafe.
Love Bugs at Cantigny
When: Feb. 14, 10-11 a.m.
Where: Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton
This celebration of family and friendships for kids ages 3-5 years that will include stories, songs and happy heart and flower crafts—plus a special Valentine’s sweet treat.
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