Valentine's Day and Beyond: Supporting Children's Social Growth

As a Child & Family Therapist Intern at Empower Family Therapy and mother of two school-age children, I've observed how school celebrations like Valentine's Day become important emotional touchpoints in children's lives. Through my professional training and personal experience, I've discovered these moments offer valuable insights into children's emotional development.

While parents may feel overwhelmed by the commercialization and pressure surrounding these celebrations, beneath the surface lies an opportunity to understand our children's social-emotional growth. When children deliberate over Valentine’s cards or navigate social expectations, they process deeper feelings about friendship, belonging, and self-expression.

In my play therapy sessions, I witness how these social experiences impact children throughout the year. Some express anxiety about meeting social expectations, while others struggle with the emotional intensity of the interactions. Through therapeutic play, children can process these feelings safely and naturally.

Even commercialized celebrations can become opportunities for emotional growth. By acknowledging our children's feelings—excitement, anxiety, or reluctance—we help develop their emotional awareness. Parents can support authentic connections by:

  • Letting children guide their participation level

  • Encouraging creative, low-cost expressions of friendship

  • Using experiences to discuss genuine relationships

  • Monitoring signs that children need extra support

While we can’t shield children from commercial influences, we can help them develop emotional tools to navigate these experiences authentically.

Here are some questions to ask your child that offer the opportunity to deepen the connection –

  • What made you feel proud today?

  • Did anyone do something that made you feel special?

  • Would you like to talk about anything that felt hard today?

  • How did it feel to give the Valentines to your classmates?

  • What do you think makes someone a good friend?

Written by Kelly Owen, M.S.

Child and Family Therapist Intern

If you’d like to learn more about supporting your child’s emotional development, contact us at hello@empowerfamilytherapy to explore how Play Therapy can help your child build lasting social-emotional skills.

Tina Shradervalentine's day, love, play therapy, parenting, family, family therapy