Dear Parents/Caregivers,
During our lesson on Belonging (which takes place on week 2 during the traditional 10-week course), the children will be receiving and decorating a “Belong Box.” This is a very special activity for which we partner with families/caretakers to provide items that will be placed inside the boxes.
These items are all designed to help the children feel loved and cherished. Below you’ll see a list of possible items that could go inside the boxes. Please know that this list is not exhaustive and because you know your child best, we’d love for you to use your best judgment regarding items to put inside the box. Here’s a list of meaningful items you could include:
1. Handwritten Notes or Letters
- Write heartfelt messages expressing your love, pride, and support for your child. Include memories, inside jokes, or reasons why they are special to you.
2. Family Photos
- Include pictures of family moments, vacations, or milestones to remind them of happy times and their connection to the family.
3. A Small Stuffed Animal or Comfort Item
- A soft, cuddly toy can provide comfort and a sense of security.
4. A Personalized Keychain or Necklace
- Engrave it with their name, initials, or a meaningful word like "Love" or "Belong."
5. A Small Journal or Sketchbook
- Encourage them to write or draw their thoughts, dreams, and feelings.
6. A Special Rock or Crystal
- Choose one with a meaningful message, like "You are strong" or "You are loved," written on it.
7. A Mini Photo Album
- Fill it with pictures of family, friends, and pets to remind them of their support system.
8. A Small Book of Affirmations
- Write or print out positive affirmations they can read whenever they need a boost.
9. A Piece of Jewelry with Meaning
- A bracelet, ring, or necklace that symbolizes love, family, or a special bond.
10. A Handmade Craft or Artwork
- Create something unique, like a painted rock, a knitted scarf, or a drawing, to show your effort and care.
11. A Small Jar of "Happiness Notes"
- Fill a jar with tiny notes listing things you love about them, funny memories, or reasons they make you proud.
12. A Family Recipe
- Include a handwritten recipe for their favorite dish or a family tradition, along with a note about why it’s special.
13. A Small Puzzle or Game
- Add a fun activity they can enjoy, like a mini puzzle or a deck of cards, to remind them to have fun and relax.
14. A Personalized Playlist or Music CD
- Create a playlist of songs that remind you of them or songs you’ve enjoyed together.
15. A Small Plant or Seeds
- Include a tiny potted plant or seeds they can grow, symbolizing growth, care, and nurturing.
16. A Special Coin or Token
- Add a coin or token they can carry as a reminder of your love and support.
17. A Book or Story
- Choose a book that holds special meaning or one that you’ve read together.
18. A Comforting Scent
- Include a small sachet of lavender, or a tiny bottle of their favorite essential oil for relaxation.
19. A Map or Drawing of Your Home
- Draw a map of your house or neighborhood with a note like, "No matter where you go, this will always be your home."
20. A List of Family Traditions
- Write down your favorite family traditions and why they matter, to reinforce their sense of belonging.
21. A Small Mirror
- Attach a note that says, "Look in this mirror to see someone who is loved, valued, and belongs."
22. A Personalized Playlist or Video Message
- Record a video or voice message sharing your love and encouragement.
23. A Special Blanket or Scarf
- Knit or choose a cozy item they can wrap themselves in for comfort.
24. A Small Treasure Box
- Include a tiny box where they can store their own special items.
25. A Letter from Other Family Members
- Ask siblings, grandparents, or other loved ones to contribute notes or drawings.
The key is to personalize the items to reflect your child’s personality, interests, and the unique bond you share. This box will serve as a tangible reminder of your love and their place in the family/group.
You may add items to the box as time goes on, though we request that you send your child to class with 5-6 of the above (or like) items, as they will be seeing them for the first time and sharing them with the group. We anticipate this will be an incredibly special class for your child as the items they bring in will be a tangible reminder of love and belonging.
*We’re providing this list upon registration because we want you to have time to gather the items for your child. This activity will be a surprise for the kids, so we ask that you gather the items, place them in a small bag or box, and deliver them with your child to class on week 2 (if you’re participating in the traditional 10-week course).
We know prepping for this activity is going to take extra time and we're so grateful for the ways you show love through supporting their learning in this way.
With Super Hero Hugs,
Your Emotional Super Powers® Team