As a mom and an early childhood teacher, I’ve learned that handprint and footprint crafts are the kind parents actually keep. Not the glitter-covered worksheets that mysteriously disappear by March, but the ones that end up tucked into baby books, framed on walls, or pulled out years later with misty eyes.
That’s why I’m sharing two easy Valentine’s Day handprint and footprint crafts that work beautifully for classrooms and at home, and yes, there’s a free printable to make your life easier.
These Valentine crafts are:
- Simple enough for toddlers and preschoolers
- Meaningful enough for parents to treasure
- Perfect for classrooms, homeschool, or daycare
- Low-prep and budget-friendly
Let’s get into it ❤️
Valentine Handprint & Footprint Craft #1:
This craft is sweet, sentimental, and perfect for young children who love getting messy (which is… all of them).
What You’ll Need:
- Washable red or pink paint
- White cardstock or construction paper
- Baby wipes or damp paper towels
- A marker for labeling names and dates
- Free printable template (linked below)
How It Works:
Start by helping your child press both hands together in a heart shape at the top of the page. This doesn’t need to be perfect, those little imperfections are part of what makes it special.
Once the handprints dry, add a single footprint at the bottom of the page. You can place it straight or angled slightly, depending on what looks best for your child’s foot size.
The printable includes the phrase:
“I love you from the bottom of my heart...” (handprints in a heart shape)
“...to the tips of my toes.” (footprint)
Teachers can easily do this as a small-group or center activity, while parents can knock it out in under 10 minutes at home.
✨ Pro tip: Always write the child’s name and year on the back. Trust me, future you will be grateful.
Valentine Footprint Craft #2:
This one is always a hit. It’s playful, funny, and still manages to be adorable—especially for kids who might not love “mushy” Valentine’s themes.
What You’ll Need:
- Tan or light brown washable paint
- Red paint for “pepperoni” fingerprints
- Optional markers for details
- Cardstock or printable page
How It Works:
Paint the bottom of your child’s foot and press it onto the paper sideways, forming the shape of a pizza slice. Once dry, kids can add fingerprint pepperoni, cheese details, or even draw a crust.
The printable text reads:
“You have a PIZZA my heart”
This is a fantastic option for:
- Preschool classrooms
- Valentine parties
- Kids who love silly wordplay
- Parents looking for something non-candy
It also pairs well with a pizza-themed Valentine snack day if you’re a teacher planning ahead.
Why Handprint & Footprint Crafts Matter
Handprint and footprint art:
- Captures a moment in time
- Encourages sensory play
- Builds fine motor skills
- Creates emotional connections
And from a teacher’s perspective, they’re inclusive, developmentally appropriate, and adaptable for multiple age groups.
No cutting perfection required. No comparison traps. Just kids being kids.
Free Printable Valentine Craft Templates
- A ready-to-use page for the heart & toes handprint/footprint craft
- A pizza-themed Valentine footprint printable
- Teacher and parent friendly formatting
👉 Grab the free printable here:
These printables are perfect for:
- Classrooms
- Homeschool families
- Church groups
- Daycares
- Grandparents who want a keepsake craft
Final Tips for Success
- Do footprints before handprints if kids are wiggly
- Keep baby wipes nearby
- Embrace the mess, it’s part of the memory
Valentine’s Day doesn’t have to be about store-bought cards or sugar overload. Sometimes the best gifts come from tiny hands, little feet, and a whole lot of love.
And if you’re anything like me, you’ll blink, and suddenly those hands won’t fit inside yours anymore. ❤️
More Valentine’s Day Ideas Kids Will Love
Non-Candy Classroom Valentine Ideas
Non-Candy Classroom Valentine Ideas for Kids – Creative, affordable options that don’t involve sweets
“Some Bunny Likes You” Non-Candy Valentine Idea + FREE Printable – A cute, animal-themed Valentine kids adore
Free Printable Classroom Valentine for Fidget Toys – A huge hit for sensory-loving kids
“You Are My Squishy” – Unique Non-Candy Kids Valentine Idea – Fun, trendy, and perfect for classroom exchanges
Valentine’s Day Crafts & Printables
Love Bug Valentine’s Day Craft + “You’re a Cutie” Free Printable – Simple, sweet, and perfect for younger kids
“I Like You a Bunchie, So Here’s a Scrunchie” – Trendy DIY Valentine Idea + Free Printable – A modern Valentine kids actually want to give
Best Valentine Box Ideas on Pinterest – Inspiration-packed ideas for classroom Valentine boxes
Valentine’s Day Food & Treat Ideas
Valentine’s Day Fruit Punch Cupcakes – A colorful, kid-friendly treat
Best Valentine Hot Chocolate Bomb Recipes – Cozy, fun, and perfect for February celebrations
Valentine’s Day Books for Kids
Valentine’s Book Ideas for Kids – Perfect for classrooms, bedtime reading, or library trips
✨ Tip for parents and teachers: Bookmark or save these posts so you can mix and match crafts, printables, and activities year after year without reinventing the wheel.
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Thanks!
♥,
Diana