The Treasure Time Capsule
When we think of time capsules, we often think of boxes or tubes filled with newspapers, letters, drawings and photos, tucked away for future generations to dig up.
While this is a good idea too, if the best bit is in digging up the time capsule and discovering all the treasures inside, you’re missing out on all the fun!
Instead, why not create a treasure time capsule, full of things to remind you of what you did only a year or two ago. Gather a friend or two, or make one with your family, so that you can all enjoy the experience of digging up treasure.
Here’s what to do:
- Find a watertight tin or plastic box.
You don’t want water to get into your time capsule and spoil your treasures, so the choice of container is very important. It needs to be thoroughly water-tight. Check it by putting it in a sink full of water. If you’re still in doubt, put your treasures in a good quality plastic bag before you put them in your tin. - Collect your treasure.
Your treasure should remind you of fun times – from holidays, outings, interesting discoveries, working on a special project or hanging out with friends (e.g. shells, feathers, stones, tickets, photos, trinkets, party bag favours, creations etc). There are no limits about what you what you can put into your time capsule, but make sure you’re not going to miss them! You don’t want to have dig it up again in a week because you’re without your favourite toy. If in doubt, take a photo and put that in instead. In fact, it’s a good idea to take a photo of your treasures anyway and file it somewhere safely. - Pop them in your time capsule.
Make sure that your items are not going to go bad, break down or damage the other items. You might like to put any strong smelling items in a separate plastic bag or container. Put heavier items on the bottom so you don’t break anything. Very delicate items such as egg shells should be put in a small box. - Bury.
Choose a safe spot to bury your treasure. You might like to make a treasure map so you know where to find it again. If you’re planning to move house before you want to rediscover your time capsule (or you can’t find a suitably water-tight container), you can choose to hide the time capsule at the back of your wardrobe or other hidden spot instead. Just don’t forget where it is! - Dig.
Dig up your time capsule in 1 year (or at another pre-arranged time) and enjoy reliving all those fun memories!
Here’s an example of what’s inside my little boy’s treasure time capsule. It’s buried in our garden ready to dig up next Summer!
This project can be found as part of our FREE downloadable Journal Activity Cards for kids.
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