Making Space for Memories: How to Refresh Your Kids' Memory Boxes
Over Christmas, I finally got the go-ahead to start replacing our family bathrooms—something that had been long overdue. They’d been leaking for some time, causing damp patches so bad that even the concrete floors were wet and refusing to dry out. As anyone who has lived through building works with a family (and a son in the middle of his mock exams) will know, it’s not exactly a fun experience. And as you might have guessed, I do not like mess!
To keep a little bit of my sanity, I did a pre-declutter and packed away as much as possible before the work began. It was the perfect opportunity to revisit my kids’ memory boxes—something that needs a little edit every now and again. I opened them up and sat with the kids, going through each item. They absolutely loved hearing the stories behind each keepsake and deciding what still deserved a place in their boxes. It was such a lovely way to reflect on how much they've grown and how their interests have changed.
Why Memory Boxes Need a Refresh
Memory boxes are meant to hold the treasures of childhood—first drawings, favourite toys, certificates, and other little keepsakes. But over time, they can become overwhelmed with every birthday card or random trinket that doesn't truly hold meaning. Revisiting these boxes every so often helps ensure they stay filled with items that genuinely tell your child’s story.
How to Refresh Your Child’s Memory Box
1. Make It a Joint Activity
Involving your child makes the process much more enjoyable. It’s a wonderful way to bond, and they’ll love hearing stories about the things they might not remember. Plus, they get to decide what still feels special to them.
2. Set Some Limits
Memory boxes can easily overflow if you’re not careful. Consider setting a rule—if something new goes in, something else comes out. This helps keep the collection meaningful and stops it from becoming another cluttered space.
3. Protect What Matters
For delicate items like old drawings or certificates, consider placing them in plastic sleeves or folders. Fragile keepsakes can go in smaller boxes or pouches inside the memory box. This keeps everything safe and easy to revisit later.
4. Label and Date Items
Adding little notes or dates to items can make a world of difference. A quick note about why something was kept will be so valuable when looking back in years to come.
5. Be Honest About What to Keep
It’s okay to let go of some things. Not every piece of schoolwork or every party favour needs to be saved. Focus on keeping items that truly tell a story or hold sentimental value.
Making Room for New Memories
Going through memory boxes isn’t about getting rid of the past—it’s about making space for new memories. Life moves fast, and as kids grow, their boxes should evolve too. It was heartwarming to see my children laugh at old stories and proudly choose what to keep for the future.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by keepsakes or just want to bring more order to your home, a little refresh like this can make a big difference. And if you’re unsure where to start, I’m always here to help you make space for what truly matters.
Here’s to holding on to the memories that mean the most and letting go of the rest.
Chrissie x