By Tamisha Anthony
Hello Little New-Yorkers! Follow along with this post to create your very own Valentine’s Day card, and don’t forget to join us live every Tuesday and Friday at 3:30 pm when we sing a special Little New-Yorkers hello song, do silly stretches and exercises, and read a storybook — all from the comfort of your home!
This February we are celebrating Black History Month and reading the stories of well-known and unsung Black American heroes. As we read, we will learn that their stories long ago aren’t so different from ours today.
This week, we are inspired by the book The Power of Her Pen: The Story of Groundbreaking Journalist Ethel L. Payne by Lesa Cline-Ransome and illustrated by John Parra. Ethel L. Payne wanted to be a writer even when there weren’t many opportunities for African American women to become one. But, despite the odds, she became a journalist known for reporting on the Civil Rights movement. She was known for asking tough questions and writing about subjects important to share.
Today we’ll write, decorate, and share a Valentine’s Day card in the style of a newspaper! It’s the perfect chance to send a kind message to someone you love.
Supplies*
Download and print the template!
- Construction paper, cardstock or collage materials
- Something to color with: markers, pastels, colored pencils, crayons or a combination!
- Scissors
- Glue or tape
* A note on supplies: If you don’t have exactly the supplies listed, improvise! These projects are designed to be versatile, so feel free to use whatever materials and tools you have at home. And if your final product looks different than what you see here, that’s wonderful!
STEP 1: Fold your Valentine’s Day card in half
To start, fold the Valentine’s Day Card template in half. Make sure it is folded well — press along the fold with your thumb.
STEP 2: Color your Valentine’s Day Card
Who are you making this Valentine’s Day card for? Is it for a parent or special grown-up? Maybe for your friend or sibling? Think of their favorite colors! Use some of your favorite colors too. Try mixing your art supplies. If you use markers first, experiment with coloring over it with crayons or colored pencils. Don’t be afraid to shake things up!
STEP 3: Write inside your Valentine’s Day card
If you want, add a special message inside your Valentine’s Day card. Maybe ask a grown-up for help so you can write exactly what you want. Make sure to sign your name at the bottom!
STEP 4: Add More Decorations!
Does your Valentine’s Day card need more decorations? Try collaging! Use construction paper, card stock, or any scrap paper you have around the house to cut out and paste hearts and other shapes to your card. If you have other craft supplies such as gems, stickers, or glitter, add those too!
STEP 5: Give your Valentine’s Day card to someone special
Now you are ready to share your Valentine’s Day card with someone special! Let them read it and enjoy your amazing artwork! If you want, you can even decorate an envelope and mail your card to someone you love who lives far away.
Thanks for following along. We hope to see you at Little New-Yorkers each Tuesday and Friday at 3:30 pm!
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