There are many things we relish and treasure about Valentine’s Day — the chocolates and flowers, the dining and romance, the kind thoughts and words… and ALL the love!

But there’s one thing we really do not like about Valentine’s Day, and that’s the idea that it is not for kids.

Perhaps you don’t have anyone available to babysit, perhaps you want your kids to experience and enjoy this special day too, maybe you want to share your love of your partner with your kids.

Or maybe your child IS your date — the love of your life who you want to share your heart and time with this Valentine’s Day.

No matter what your situation, we believe that Valentine’s Day CAN be enjoyed with kids and there are so many child friendly things to do in Brisbane with kids that there is no excuse to not get out with your loved ones and make the most of this wonderful day.

Here are some ideas:

1) Date at the movies

Going to the movies has long been a staple date activity, but there’s no reason why this can’t be enjoyed with the kids as well. There are baby-friendly film sessions at cinemas throughout Brisbane for those with really little ones. And if you fancy something a little more exciting with your kids, why not head out to a movie in a park or to a drive-in theatre at Yatala or Tivoli?

2) Delicious desserts

Heading out for dessert is a scrumptious treat for any kid — and adults too! There are so many restaurants and cafes in Brisbane that you will be spoilt for choice!

3) Southbank and sunset

This is ROMANCE kid-style! A romantic river cruise, a delectable dessert, a horse-drawn carriage and a beautiful sunset … Wait! That was the adult’s version! For kids, it’s a trip to South Bank, starting with a CityCat ferry trip, then heading for ice cream, a fun green cab ride and staying up longer than the sun! Perfect!

4) Scenic spots

There are many picturesque scenic spots in and around Brisbane that are sure to get big and little hearts pounding! Some of our absolute favourites are Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve in Maleny, Best of All Lookout in Springbrook and the Glass House Mountains Lookout. We also have some amazing scenic spots closer to home, like the lookout at Mt Coot-tha and the Mount Gravatt Outlook Reserve.

5) Picnic in a park

Enjoying a delicious and thoughtfully prepared (or just thoughtfully purchased!) picnic is a generally understated but really special way to celebrate Valentine’s Day. Just head to your favourite one of Brisbane’s hundreds of awesome parks and you can break bread with the kids, and then sit back and savour your meal as the kids run off to play!

6) Sunset stroll

A sunset stroll, especially along the seafront, makes for a lovely date with or without the kids. We recommend strolling along the Redcliffe Jetty, just as the sun goes down. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a beautiful sunset to enjoy, and if not… Well, there’s always fish and chips! Seriously, it may not sound that romantic, but it is pretty close to perfect!

7) Romantic meal out

Who says you can’t enjoy a romantic meal out WITH kids? Nowadays, there are so many brilliant child-friendly restaurants all over Brisbane! They often have playgrounds or play areas, kids’ menus and so many ways to keep children entertained while you linger over your dinner. Some of our favourites are the Bald Hills Tavern, The Hutch Bistro and the Arana Leagues Club.

8) Staycation 

The ultimate Valentine’s date is a night in a lovely hotel with your loved one. If you don’t have the time or budget for a holiday far away, a staycation is a great idea! There are loads of great child-friendly hotels in and around Brisbane. Everyone can enjoy the fun and excitement of a mini-holiday but without the travel! For a super fun option without the cost, there’s camping in the backyard. All your home comforts are right on hand, but you can cook outdoors, have toasted marshmallows and lie on a rug gazing at the stars. The kids will love this one and it’s free!

9) Romantic meal in

Valentine’s dates don’t have to be all about fine dining in fancy restaurants. Sometimes staying in and having a romantic meal at home can be way more personal and memorable. Why not get the kids involved in planning and preparing a three-course dinner? They can also help to set the table — they could make Valentine’s decorations, set up fairy lights, older kids could even write out a menu. A great way to involve the whole family in one of the best dates ever.

10) All about the kids 

Valentine’s Day is all about thoughtful ways of showing someone we care for them. So one of the best ways of letting little ones know how much we love them is to let them have a voice and tell us what they want to do. They might want to go out to a park or stay in and build a castle out of boxes, have a picnic in the garden or eat jelly for dinner. It doesn’t really matter what it is, it will be so special to them, and to you.

Do you have any other ideas to add to the list? Please SHARE in the comments below.

Image courtesy of Shutterstock.com