Valentine’s Day isn’t just about romantic love—it’s a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the love that makes a family special, in all its unique and beautiful forms. At Make It Cute, we believe in the power of play to bring families closer together. Our sustainable indoor playhouses create a space where children’s imaginations can flourish, where they can build memories with siblings, parents, grandparents, friends and chosen family.
That’s why this Valentine’s Day, we’re thrilled to partner with OurShelves, a brand that champions diverse and inclusive stories for children. With their help, we are making a special delivery to the Make It Cute playhouse: a heartwarming book that reminds us what truly makes a family—A FAMILY IS A FAMILY IS A FAMILY by award-winning author Sara O’Leary and award-winning illustrator Qin Leng.
Love & Belonging in Every Family
This beautifully illustrated book, published by House of Anansi, captures the essence of what it means to belong:
“When a teacher asks her students to share what makes their families special, they each have different answers—some have two moms, some live with grandparents, some have step-siblings, and some have new babies on the way. Through each child’s perspective, we are reminded that what truly makes a family is love and care, no matter its shape or size.”
At OurShelves, they carefully curate children’s books that celebrate diversity and inclusion, ensuring that every child can see themselves reflected in the stories they read. Books like this one provide a powerful way for families to talk about love, identity, and the many ways we care for each other.
Creating Meaningful Family Moments Through Play
Open-ended play is at the heart of Make It Cute’s indoor playhouses, and Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to transform these play spaces into a celebration of love and connection. Imagine cozying up inside the playhouse for a family storytime, decorating it with heartfelt messages, or crafting a pretend Valentine’s Day party where everyone is welcome.
Playhouses provide a safe and imaginative setting for children to express love and kindness. Whether it’s through storytelling, role-playing, or simply creating a space where kids feel at home, these beautifully designed, eco-friendly playhouses become more than just decor—they become a backdrop for childhood’s most cherished memories.
Fun Valentine’s Day Activities for Families
Want to make this Valentine’s Day extra special? Here are a few fun ideas to try inside your Make It Cute playhouse:
- Valentine’s Storytime: Gather the family, grab your favorite love-themed books, and create a cozy reading nook inside the playhouse.
- Love Notes Wall: Set up a space (the roof?) where family members can write and post kind messages to each other, fostering gratitude and connection.
- DIY Decorations: Let kids craft heart garlands, paper flowers, or even a love-themed banner to adorn their playhouse.
- Family Tea Party: Host a pretend tea party complete with heart-shaped treats and fancy costumes to celebrate love and togetherness.
- Gratitude Jar: Place a jar inside the playhouse where family members can drop in notes about what they love about each other.
Why Sustainable Play Matters
At Make It Cute, sustainability is at the heart of everything we create. We want families to enjoy generations of playtime together which is why our indoor playhouses are made from eco-friendly materials, ensuring that children can play in a space that is both safe and kind to the planet. Investing in high-quality, sustainable play decor means making choices that are better for families and future generations.
By choosing sustainable products, families not only reduce waste but also instill values of environmental responsibility in children. Teaching kids to care for their world starts with the toys and spaces they interact with daily.
Celebrate Your Family’s Love
This Valentine’s Day, we invite you to embrace the joy of family—whatever that looks like for you. Take a moment to celebrate love through play, storytelling, and meaningful togetherness. Whether you're snuggled up inside a Make It Cute playhouse reading A FAMILY IS A FAMILY IS A FAMILY, crafting homemade valentines, or sharing laughter over a tea party, these small moments weave together the fabric of family love.
Connect With Us
Who’s in your family, including your chosen family? How do you share love and care with those closest to you? We’d love to hear your stories! Share your moments with us on Instagram @MakeItCuteKids and @OurShelvesKids, and let’s celebrate the many beautiful ways love makes a family.