Estimated time to make this valentine:
1-2 days (needs to set)

Appropriate age group(s):
Elementary School
Middle School

Materials:
-Black and red permanent markers OR black and red acrylic paint
-Some type of clear spray to preserve the color
-Plastic spoon
-Safety pin
-Plaster of Paris

Instructions:
Put the plaster in the plastic spoon. As it begins to set, insert the safety pin so that it will dry with the pin part sticking out.
Once the plaster is completely dry, begin painting or coloring with red first. Then, go back after it is dry, and make a black line which will designate the head area from the body. Add some black dots on the body and two for the eyes. This has been a hit with parents and students alike for years. I got the idea from a Family Fun magazine a couple of years ago. Of course, it doesn't have to be a ladybug. The pin could be a bee or anything!

Other comments or suggestions to consider:
Make a sample pin before asking any young child to do this. I've always had an adult pour the plaster and set the pin in it.