Sweet-on-you Crafts:
Kid-Friendly Valentine's Day Magic

By Kymberly Pratt

From our provider:

On Valentine's Day, you may be tempted to sneak away for a romantic dinner for two. But before you do, remember the little ones in your life. Set aside a block of time to make some Valentine memories with paint, craft dough and rocks – and then call the babysitter and enjoy that candlelit dinner for adults only!

You can use any type of candy bark, chocolate or candy pieces. These are great party favors or even a fun activity for playgroups.

You'll need:

• Almond bark (sold on baking aisle)
• Peppermint candies
• Wax paper
• Large baggies
• Small bowls
• Microwave

Here's what you do:

1. Put the peppermint candies in a large baggie and show your little one how to smash them into pieces using a spoon, small frying pan, mallet or other heavy utensil. Make sure to break them into very tiny pieces, almost a powder form. This ensures that they will not be a choking hazard. (You may have to help your child to get them into small enough pieces.)

2. Lay out a piece of wax paper about 2 feet long on a cookie sheet or large cutting board.

3. Microwave the almond bark per instructions on the package. When melted, add about half a cup of the crushed candies and mix well. Carefully pour the bark onto the wax paper and spread it into a thin sheet, about 1/4 inch thick. (Make sure your child watches from a safe distance.) Let your child sprinkle some of the extra crushed candies on top.

4. Allow the bark to dry for several hours. When completely dry, let your child help you break it into pieces. Place the candy into small plastic bags or bowls.

Remember to always use caution when using a hot glue gun and when burning a candle around children of any age. Never leave candles or children unattended.

You'll need:

• White ceramic plate
• Pillar candles of varying sizes (3, 4 and 5 inches tall)
• Sequins, glitter, beads, wiggle eyes
• White tacky glue
• Paint and brushes
• Hot glue gun
• Old kitchen towel

Here's what you do:

1. Stand the candles up on an old kitchen towel to keep them from moving around. Help your child decorate the candles using the paints, or cover the candles with a thin layer of tacky glue and add the embellishments such as sequins, glitter, beads or wiggle eyes (watch your child at all times as these are choking hazards). Allow the candle to dry.

2. Using the hot glue gun, attach the candle to the ceramic plate. Add some tacky glue to the exposed plate and sprinkle with any extra embellishments.

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