Memory boxes are super easy to make and a fun way for your child to keep track of their school year. Making memory boxes started off as a senior tradition for many high schoolers as a way to remember their final year before college as well as being a fun activity to make with friends. Although many seniors make these boxes, this activity makes a great project to do with children to get ready for back to school.
Author: Lucy Marashian, Age 17
Importance of Memory Boxes
Along with the boxes being absolutely adorable, I love having a fun way to keep all my memories and pictures of my friends and me. These boxes can be a great way to shift focus away from social media and keep physical pictures and mementos instead of relying on your phone.
It is so beneficial, especially for younger children, to keep photos and other memories on hand to create a stronger connection with their memories as well as creating a source of happiness.
All Kinds of Options
All ages can make their own memory box with common materials. You can use something as simple as a shoebox or container from home or purchase a wooden one online or from a local craft store. There are so many options on how to decorate your memory box. My friends and I got together and used paint and paint pens to create our designs, but many other materials can be used, such as ribbon, gems, glitter, markers, and more!Â
Optional Materials for Memory Box
- Some type of box (Shoebox, container from home, wooden box from online or a local craft store)
- Acrylic Paint and Paintbrushes
- Paint Pens
- Mod Podge
- Liquid glue or Glue gun
- Optional Materials: Stencils, sports or other hobby stickers, gemstone stickers, felt pieces, buttons, ribbon, glitter, letter stickers etc.
Directions
- I painted a base layer of acrylic paint on my box.
- I then sketched out my designs and letters to paint over.
- After the box was fully painted, I added a layer of mod podge to seal my design.
- After the paint and Mod Podge has dried, you can use a hot glue gun or liquid glue to add accessories like ribbon, glitter etc. (Be sure to add any stickers before you seal with Mod Podge.)
