How to make a summer memory box with your kids
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Summer is filled with so many wonderful moments — long sunny days, fun adventures, and little everyday joys that make the season special.
But many times, before we know it, summer slips away, and it’s easy to forget all the little things that made it magical.
That’s why I love the idea of a Summer Memory Box! It’s a simple, fun way to collect memories throughout the season and create a special keepsake to look back on together.
The best part? It’s easy to make and a great way to encourage kids to reflect on their favorite moments.
How to make a summer memory box
Step 1: Choose your box
All you need to get started is a container to hold all your summer memories:
- A simple shoebox decorated by the kids
- A small plastic bin with a lid
- A cardboard box wrapped in colorful paper
If your kids love crafts, let them decorate the box with stickers, drawings, or washi tape to make it their own!
Step 2: Decide what to collect
Throughout the summer, encourage kids to add little keepsakes to the box.
Here are some fun ideas:
- Photos – Print a few favorite summer pictures or let kids take their own with an instant camera.
- Drawings & Art – Let kids create small sketches or paint pictures of their favorite summer moments.
- Postcards & Brochures – If you visit new places, save postcards or travel brochures.
- Nature Finds – Collect small treasures like seashells, special rocks, or pressed flowers.
- Event Tickets & Wristbands – Save tickets from amusement parks, concerts, or summer fairs.
- Summer Bucket List Check-Offs – Write down activities you complete from your summer bucket list.
- Handwritten Notes – Ask kids to write a short note about their favorite summer memory.
- A “Favorite Things” List – Have each family member write down their favorite summer foods, songs, and activities.
- Small Souvenirs – A keychain from a trip, a friendship bracelet, or any tiny keepsake that holds meaning.
Start a fun end-of-summer tradition
To make the memory box even more special, plan a family time to go through it together at the end of summer.
Here are a few fun ideas:
- Open the box on the last night of summer break and relive the best moments together.
- Pair it with a family movie night or picnic and look through the memories while enjoying a favorite summer treat.
- Let kids add predictions for next summer: what they hope to do, places they want to visit, or things they want to try.
- Save it for future summers! Store the box away and open it a year later to see how much has changed.
A Summer Memory Box is such a fun way to hold onto the little moments that make summer special.
It encourages kids to slow down and appreciate their experiences, while also creating a simple keepsake your family can cherish.
I hope you’ll enjoy trying this idea with your kids!
