How to Prepare Classroom Valentines Without the Last-Minute Rush

Classroom valentines are a sweet tradition, and also one of those tasks that sneaks up on parents. A short plan, started a week or two ahead, keeps it calm and takes about an hour in total.

Step 1: Get the number

Ask the teacher how many children are in the class, and whether the school wants valentines for everyone or only for friends. Most schools ask that every child gets one so no one is left out. Add a few extras for the teacher and for spares in case of mistakes.

Step 2: Check the school’s rules

Many schools have rules about food, candy and allergies. Some are nut-free, and some do not allow treats at all. If the rule is no food, a pencil, a sticker or a small eraser is a good alternative. Check before you buy anything to attach.

Step 3: Print and cut

Print the valentines on paper or card stock, at 100 percent. Cut them apart along the dashed lines. A paper trimmer speeds this up a lot. If your child wants to help, let them do the cutting with child-safe scissors, which is a good job for a quiet afternoon.

Step 4: Write the names

Ask the teacher for a class list, or ask your child to write the names of the classmates from memory and check it afterwards. Have your child write each name on the To line and sign the From line. It is good handwriting practice, and it gives them ownership of the project.

Step 5: Add a small extra, if you like

• A pencil or a sticker taped to the back
• A small bag with a note and a wrapped treat, if the school allows food
• A handwritten line on a few valentines for special friends

Step 6: Pack them up

Put the valentines in a large envelope or bag labeled with your child’s name and the teacher’s name, so they are easy to hand out on the day. Pack a few spares, and tuck the teacher’s card on top.

Make it calm for the child

Some children find handing out valentines stressful. Talk it through ahead of time. You can keep it simple: they say “Happy Valentine’s Day” as they place the valentine on each desk. It is also fine if they are shy and the teacher passes them out.

Printable valentines to start with

Our Valentine Card and Classroom Valentines Pack has 24 cut-apart valentines with to and from lines, plus 8 foldable cards and an envelope template. Try a sample first with the free Valentine card sample.

You can also browse every free sample on the Free Printables page, or see all digital downloads.