Frugal Parenting for Working Parents: Bonding via homemade treasure boxes

bargain mom treasure box.jpgView full size

One of my favorite ways to connect with my children while I'm at work is to create a treasure box for them.

I've been doing it for quite some time.  It's more than a treat it's something they anticipate.

It's easy, cheap and fun.

You don't have to do it every day, maybe once a week or so.

Here's how to make it fun.

1.  Grab a box or container --

Shoe box, little metal lunchboxes or those

You could even use a little basket.

2.  Create a little stockpile ---

This can be unopened happy meal toys they forget about, little notepads, pens, old Hot Wheels they've forgotten or 'lost', stickers, fun little cards.

3.  Fill the box with a few of the items ---

Don't spoil them.  You don't want to create or train them to expect new items, because you don't want to start a habit of buying new toys.

4.  Map it out ---

Draw a map featuring 'landmarks' from inside your home.  The TV stand, bedrooms, tables etc.


5.  X marks the spot --

Hide the treasure box carefully.  (Do you have multiple kids?  Hide them together or along different routes.) Also if you children are older you could leave little clues along the way, like a scavenger hunt.  A map with the specific route they need to take, can be easier on the younger children. You could include step by step instructions to make it to the prize.  Turn left at the china cabinet, take a right and go down the hall, etc.


6.  How to make it a bonding experience ---

Have your caregiver or spouse call you for the "let the treasure hunt" begin.  If you can stay on the phone with them or Facetime, even better.  If not call and start the hunt.  Once the hunt is over, have the kids call you back and describe their loot!


7.  Seriously the key to keeping this frugal and not a burden is to do free items.

It can be obscure things, a cool rock.  A drawing.  Notes.  A picture from a magazine.  Don't make it elaborate, make it quirky and fun because if you add another pressure or expense to your already busy routine, you'll become frustrated.

Example map, certainly not the best but you get the idea:

bargain mom treasure map.jpgChristie Dedman/News Staff

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