15 Valentine’s Day Books For Preschoolers

Reading to children has countless benefits, and there’s no better time to start than on Valentine’s Day. Not only are books a wonderful way to celebrate love and friendship, but they also provide a wealth of educational and developmental benefits for young children.

Some of the advantages of reading to children include:

Building vocabulary: Reading exposes children to new words and concepts, helping to build their vocabulary and language skills.
Promoting cognitive development: Reading helps children to develop their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as they learn to make connections between the words on the page and their own experiences.
Encouraging creativity: Reading sparks children’s imaginations, helping them to explore new ideas and concepts, and encouraging them to be creative in their own play and activities.
Building social skills: Reading with children allows for conversations and discussions about the stories, helping children to develop their social skills and learn to express themselves effectively.
Improving focus and concentration: Reading requires children to pay attention and concentrate, which can help them to develop these important skills.

In addition to these benefits, gifting books to children is a wonderful way to encourage a lifelong love of reading and learning. Children who have access to a wide range of books at home are more likely to become avid readers, which can have a positive impact on their academic and personal development.

So if you’re looking for a special activity to do with your little ones on Valentine’s Day, consider setting aside some time for a story time or reading session. Not only will it be a fun and enjoyable way to celebrate the holiday, but it will also provide a host of benefits for your children’s development and growth.

Pete the Cat Valentine’s Day is Cool
Happy Valentine’s Day Mouse!
There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Rose
The Day it Rained Hearts
The Biggest Valentine Ever
Ollie’s Valentine
Peppa’s Valentine’s Day
The Yuckiest, Stinkiest, Best Valentine Ever
Snowy Valentine
Love, Triangle
Valensteins
This is NOT a Valentine
Love Monster
The Night Before Valentine’s Day
Clifford’s First Valentine Day

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There’s something magical about textured wall art. It’s got depth, personality, and that “I spent a fortune at a boutique gallery” vibe—without the boutique price tag. And the best part? You don’t need to be a trained artist to create it. If you can spread butter on toast, you can make this.

I made my first DIY textured canvas art on a rainy Saturday afternoon, with a cup of tea on the table and a curious dog sniffing my paint tray (Aloo was very unimpressed). A couple of hours later, I had a statement piece that looked like it belonged in a high-end décor magazine—except it cost me less than a takeaway dinner. Since then I have been obsessed and even made a Halloween Ghost one which you can see over here on our sister blog.

Whether you want a calming neutral piece for above the sofa or a bold modern texture for a gallery wall, this technique works for all styles.

Why You’ll Love Making Your Own Textured Canvas Art

Budget-Friendly: Store-bought textured art can cost hundreds—yours will cost a fraction.
Custom Colours: Match your décor exactly (no more “almost” shades).
Therapeutic Process: There’s something soothing about smoothing plaster and watching your art take shape.
One-of-a-Kind: No one else will have the exact same piece hanging on their wall.

Supplies You’ll Need

Canvas – Any size you like; larger canvases make a bigger impact.

Joint compound, spackle, or lightweight plaster – This is what creates the texture. You’ll find it in the hardware store’s paint aisle.

Putty knife or palette knife – For spreading and sculpting the texture.

Acrylic paint – Choose your main colour(s). Matte paints give a modern, designer look.

Paintbrush or sponge – For applying your colour after the texture dries.

Drop cloth or old sheet – To protect your workspace.

Optional:

Metallic paint for highlights
Sandpaper for a smoother finish
Stencils or combs for patterned textures

Step-by-Step: How to Make Textured Wall Art

1. Prepare Your Workspace

Spread out your drop cloth and set your canvas on a flat surface. This can get a little messy, so old clothes are a must.

2. Apply the Texture

Scoop some joint compound or spackle onto your putty knife. Spread it over the canvas in sweeping motions, as if you’re frosting a cake.

For a smooth, modern look, keep your strokes even.
For a rustic, organic feel, let the plaster peak and ripple naturally.
For patterned textures, press in stencils, combs, or even bubble wrap for an imprint.

3. Let It Dry Completely

Depending on how thick you applied the texture, this can take anywhere from 12–24 hours. Patience is key here—painting too soon can ruin the effect.

4. Paint Your Design

Once dry, use acrylic paint to cover the texture. Neutrals like beige, ivory, or warm grey work beautifully for a minimalist look.

Want a bold statement? Go for deep navy, charcoal, or even emerald green.
For a luxe finish, lightly dry-brush metallic gold or bronze over the raised areas to make the texture pop.

5. Hang and Admire

Once the paint is dry, your art is ready for its gallery debut—aka your living room wall.

Tips for Gorgeous Results

Mix Texture Heights: Add thicker plaster in some areas and thinner layers in others for depth.
Use Two Tones: Layer a darker base coat, then brush a lighter shade over the raised texture for a dimensional effect.
Practice First: Try a small canvas before committing to a large statement piece.

Creating your own textured wall art is a satisfying, budget-friendly way to bring designer style into your home. The process is relaxing, the materials are affordable, and the result is a unique piece that looks far more expensive than it is.

So next time you’re tempted to scroll online for pricey wall décor, grab a canvas, some plaster, and your favourite paint colours—you might just surprise yourself with how chic your creation turns out.