I don’t remember how it started… but, when our oldest (now 
was about 2, we got him a wooden box that has a cool metal lock on the front… we told him it was his special “treasure box”. We have never told him what to put in it… only that it was for his special treasures… and at 8, it is jam packed! In fact, our youngest (3) came across it the other day on the floor (it is suppose to be on his tall dresser.. Hmmm…)… and was SO fascinated with what was inside – some coins, rocks, cool little action figure dudes, a few things my hubby has given him…
Once my oldest started putting things inside his treasure box, we realized what a cool idea this was – and that it was something extra special we could give each of our kids. So, about three years ago, we bought one for our daughter. We shopped all over the place for the perfect wooden box – and finally found it at TJMaxx. It was dark wood shaped a bit like a heart… with the perfect locking clasp too! Now, my daughter has her own treasure chest… only hers is a bit different inside. Hers is filled with jewelry, gems, rocks, coins, and lots of pink things!
Last year, we gave our youngest (who I mentioned enjoys his older brother’s box) a special treasure chest… and it sits in the family room… empty.
Why is that? He use to keep some special cars in it… but, over most of this past year, it has been empty… maybe we, as his parents, need to make more of an effort with his treasure box. As I thought about this – I thought I would share…
I’d encourage every parent to give their child a special box – something that is JUST theies… that is private… and extra special.
Here are some ideas for things your child could include:
- Do they have a hobby? Or a specific type of toy (like cars or jewelry) – let them put their favorites in their treasure box.
- Going on vacation soon? Let your child find something while on vacation just to put in their box when they get home.
- Lost tooth? Put a little note from the tooth fairy under their pillow and encourage them to keep it safe in their treasure box.
- going to have some special mommy or daddy time? Be sure to include something that can be put in their treasure box.
Fill it with memories – so that when they do go through it they have a story to share… and watch their eyes light up! 
