To be kept as is
Make a time capsule using a sealed container, choose small keepsakes and notes, then seal and store it to be kept unopened.
Step-by-step guide to make a time capsule using a sealed container, choosing small keepsakes and notes, then sealing and storing it unopened
Step 1
Gather all Materials Needed and put them on a clean table where you can work comfortably.
Step 2
Choose an opening date for your time capsule and write that date on a piece of paper.
Step 3
Decide on a theme for your time capsule such as "today at school" or "my favorite things."
Step 4
Pick small keepsakes that match your theme and that will fit inside the container.
Step 5
Write a short note or letter to your future self on a sheet of paper.
Step 6
Place your notes and any flat items into a resealable plastic bag to protect them.
Step 7
Arrange your keepsakes neatly inside the sealed container so they will not crush each other.
Step 8
Add a small label inside with your name and the opening date written on it.
Step 9
Decorate the outside of the container with stickers drawings or colors to make it special.
Step 10
Ask an adult to help you seal the container securely using tape or strong glue.
Step 11
Put the sealed time capsule in a safe dry place to be kept unopened until the opening date.
Step 12
Share a photo and the story of your finished time capsule on DIY.org
Final steps
You're almost there! Complete all the steps, bring your creation to life, post it, and conquer the challenge!
Help!?
What can we use if we don't have a resealable plastic bag, a small container, or strong glue?
If you don't have a resealable plastic bag to protect flat items (step 5) wrap them in wax paper or aluminum foil, use a clean metal tin or sturdy shoebox as the container (step 7), and seal it with duct tape if you lack strong glue (step 10).
My keepsakes might get crushed or the container could leak—how can we prevent damage before sealing?
To prevent keepsakes from crushing when arranging them (step 7) pad gaps with crumpled tissue paper, cotton balls, or bubble wrap and place a packet of silica gel or dry rice inside to guard against moisture before sealing (step 10).
How can we adapt this time capsule activity for younger children or older kids?
For younger children let them pick a simple theme and place pre-sorted keepsakes while an adult writes the opening date and seals the container (steps 2, 3, 4, 10), and for older kids add a USB of photos, a longer letter, and more elaborate outside decoration before sharing on DIY.org (steps 5, 9, 12).
How can we make the time capsule more special or help it last longer?
Make it more special and durable by laminating a photo and adding a silica gel packet inside with your name and opening date on the internal label (steps 7 and 8), decorating the outside (step 9), and posting the finished photo and story to DIY.org (step 12).
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Facts about time capsule projects for kids
🧸 People often include everyday items like toys, newspapers, photos, and coins so future finders can see what life felt like.
🎉 Schools, towns, and families make time capsules for anniversaries and milestones, and opening them decades later is often a big celebration.
🏺 The Crypt of Civilization at Oglethorpe University was sealed in 1940 and is intended to be opened in the year 8113 — one of the most famous modern time capsules.
🕳️ Time capsules aren't always buried — some are hidden inside buildings, placed in museums, or stored in vaults.
🔒 Using airtight containers, silica gel packs, and avoiding organic food helps keepsakes last longer by preventing moisture and mold.
How do you make a time capsule step by step?
What materials do I need for a kids' time capsule?
What ages is making a time capsule suitable for?
What are the benefits, safety tips, and fun variations for a time capsule?
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