My seven-year-old’s second grade teacher has a philosophy that all parents should help out with classroom activities. She has found that because some of the parents are the same ones getting involved time and again, it’s her duty to spread the wealth: each family is assigned one classroom party each year for which they’ll bring treats, plan games, and participate. My number was drawn – FOR VALENTINES DAY.

I love holidays – Thanksgiving makes me smile and no one loves Christmas quite like I do, but Valentines Day is not a holiday I love and when the mom in charge called me for ideas for healthy Valentines snacks, I drew a blank.

I do love that the focus is not on “how much sugar can we cram into these children before sending them home to their parents” – but rather activities they can do, and yes, a healthy snack. My daughters and I (and some of my mom friends) came up with some healthy Valentines alternatives:

• Trail Mix – Popcorn (if age appropriate), pretzels, Craisins, and some decorative M&Ms for color
• Strawberries (they kind of look like hearts) dipped in Cool Whip
• Heart-shaped sandwiches (lunch meat, or if there are no allergies, peanut butter)

What are your class party planning tips? Any go-to snack recipes that are healthy and fun?

Photo Source