Do you enjoy looking back at old pictures of when you were growing up or perhaps getting nostalgic with old toys you once played with. You may even have your first ever baby booties or something similar. Well if you enjoy it then maybe your adoptive son or daughter will too?
Creating a memory box is a great way of keeping sentimental and precious items safe for years to come. Create one of these for your child with any information or possessions from their birth family such as baby photos and put away safely until they ask about where they came from.
However old your adoptive child is and whether they have memories of their birth family or not this is a lovely thoughtful item to have and create.
How to Create a Memory Box
In order to create this time capsule like container you will first need a sturdy box that is large enough to contain the items. Decorate a shoe box with your child so it has a personal touch or invest in a cardboard storage box. Both of these are easily sourced.
Once you have the box it is time to fill it up:
Photos
When they were taken into care were they given any photographs of their birth family? There may be photo evidence of the day they were born or of any important events such as birthdays or christening? Photos of family are a great way of figuring out how your child may look when they grow up and they may give them some closure.
Another nice touch is to include the first photo you ever took as a new family. Show how happy you were when they came home for the first time, decorating their bedroom for the first time or their first day of school.
First
The items that your child brought with them may no longer be used or needed but it is still nice to hold on to them for sentimental meaning. You can in future look back at old clothes or booties and think about when they were once that small.
Their first teddy bear, their first dummy or first blanket are also great additions to a memory box if you have them.
Are you thinking about creating your very own memory box? They make a great 18th birthday present! If you have any questions about the adoption process or would like to send us some pictures of your memory boxes give one of our regional offices a call. They’re always happy to chat.