Here comes another one of our holidays based around food – Valentine’s Day. Now this one isn’t so extreme as Christmas or Thanksgiving, but it is one of the biggest chocolate days of the year. We need to talk about some good substitute gifts if your Valentine is allergic to chocolate, or the many things that are in it (milk, nuts, peanuts, soy…). I’m not big into pricey gifts for Valentine’s Day; I think this is one time when it truly is the thought that counts. Here are some low cost options to the box of chocolates for all of your Valentines:

For your kids:
Food alternatives are always good, even if they don’t have a food allergy; here are some fun things to try:
• Give a fun pair of Valentine socks or a camisole to your girls.
• Girls always love jewelry, no matter how old they are. For your littlest one, give her some dress up jewelry.
• Webkinz are all the rage now. Give the new Valentine one.
• For the boys, how about a new soccer ball or Lego set, or a cool red t-shirt (leave off the hearts and flowers, though).
• There are really cute Valentine t-shirts at inexpensive stores like Old Navy or Target.
You can still safely give food, too, just stay away from your allergen:
• Some of the lollipops and hard candy will be OK, just check ingredients.
• Make some allergy safe cupcakes together and decorate them.
• Set out a pretty bowl of red fruit for breakfast, strawberries, cherries, raspberries…

For your teens:
• Same thing, just up it a little: any red clothing, as long as it is in sync with what they like.
• Gift card to itunes.
• Jewelry to your teen daughter. Make it a fun piece of costume jewelry with a big chunky heart.
• Something to do with their activity, for the swimmer, a new swim suit, for the musician, a new piece of music, etc.
• Flowers, as long as there is no allergy to them.
• Fill up your son’s car with gas.
• Balloons.

For the adult in your life with allergies:
• A handmade card with lots of personal care will be a special gift, include a picture of the two of you.
• A romantic CD.
• A fun pair of boxers for your guy.
• A favorite movie and then watch it together.
• A back rub!
• Give both of you a copy of a book you have both always wanted to read. Read it together and talk about it.
Valentines is about way more than chocolate and candy. Just show your valentine you spent some thought on them. That’s sure to produce some hugs and kisses (and not the chocolate kind).