7 Creative Ways to Collect Summer Memories

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Summer is coming to an end, and in a few weeks, kids will be forced to trade in their beach bags for backpacks. But just because the season is fading away doesn't mean the memories from the past few months have to disappear with it. Documenting your child's vacation is a great way to help them hold on to their favorite moments and give them something to look forward to when the school year gets tough. Here, creative ways to keep those sweet summertime memories. Source: Flickr user erwss

01
Create Your Own Postcards

Create Your Own Postcards

Rather than sending loved ones a store-bought postcard, create your own using photos from a family vacation. This way they can read about what you did and see it too! Source: Flickr user gochie*

02
Build a Scrapbook

Build a Scrapbook

This is the perfect activity for a rainy day! All you need are construction paper, glue, and photos. If you prefer to go paperless, try using one of these digital scrapbook apps. Source: Flickr user thisisloveforever

03
Make Some Magnets

Make Some Magnets

Decorate the fridge with your favorite Summer memories. Simply use a hot glue gun to adhere a magnet to the back of your favorite photos. Source: Flickr user MJM

04
Fill a Vacation Memory Jar

Fill a Vacation Memory Jar

Extend the joy of a family trip with these vacation memory jars. Photo by Annie Schlechter. Courtesy of Martha Stewart Living

05
Write a Book

Write a Book

Have your little ones write and illustrate a story about their camp adventures, family vacation, or favorite moments from the last few months. It's a little more fun than a journal, and it will give them a head start on their Summer vacation essay for school. Source: Flickr user marin

06
Build a Time Capsule

Build a Time Capsule

Create a Summer-themed time capsule. Include mementos, photos, and a letter from the kids to their future selves with their goals for the upcoming year. Seal the whole thing in an airtight container (a tennis ball can or Tupperware would work well), and wait until a sunny day to bury it in the backyard. Make a note of where it is, and open it next Summer! Source: Flickr user woodleywonderworks

07
Turn Photos Into Paintings

Turn Photos Into Paintings

Shutterfly can transform your favorite photos into spectacular pieces of wall art ($70-$600). Select an option that works best for your budget.