How to Create a Graduation Time Capsule

When you were a kid you may have done an activity or written yourself a letter to open when you were older. If you have ever done an activity like this, then you know just how special that moment is when you open up that item from the past.

Creating a graduation time capsule is a wonderful gift for your new graduate or an activity to do with them to finish out the school year. Putting together a time capsule of their life now to open later will be something they’ll cherish for years to come! 

Graduates are often focused on the days when they will no longer have school work, however, writing a letter to their future self can not only double as an assignment, but it will also be a treasured memento too. But a time capsule can be so much more than just a letter! 

Whether you have a graduate this year or you’re planning ahead, we’ve got you covered! Check out these tips for creating and setting up your own time capsule with your graduate!

Step 1: Fill your box

Coming up with what to put in your time capsule is probably the hardest part of building one! There are a few questions to for your graduate to answer that will make this decision so much easier!

• How would I describe my life right now?
• What do I like/love right now?
• What is a staple of the current time period?

These three questions will help you decide what should go in your time capsule. Once you’ve chosen your items, you may want to write a small note or give some context as to why you put those items in there. Don’t forget to include one or two of your senior pictures. 

Step 2: A message to your future self

One of the best parts about putting together a time capsule is opening it up years later! While the objects within the box will do the work of bringing you back in time, you want to make sure that you add a special touch to make your box that much better! Write a letter to your future self, or have people you know write you letters. When you go to open up your box, this will be a great memento that you will cherish forever!

Step 3: Storage

Storing your time capsule can be a bit of a challenge. This is especially true if you won’t be opening your capsule for another 20 years! Some options include your parents house/basement, or if your family has a safety deposit box, you could store it there as well. Where you decide to store it, just make sure it is clearly labeled so it doesn’t get lost in moves or packed away where it won’t be found.

Step 4: Set a date and location

You want to set a date first and write on your container the date when it should be opened. Make sure that your time capsule is stored somewhere that is good for long-term storage, but won’t get lost either. Pick a date that is between 5-20 years so that the memories will have more of a blast from the past effect. 

Don’t forget to find a way to remind yourself of when you need to open your box. I suggest either making a calendar notification in your phone that is tied to your email or the cloud over a note in your phone. If something happens to your phone, you’d lose it completely otherwise. Once you have your notification set up, find a place to store it!

Making your own time capsule is easy and a fun way to finish off your high school or college career! I hope this post has inspired you to get creative and make a time capsule with your graduate.