Writing to our future self is a powerful way to reflect on who we are right now and imagine who we want to become. It helps us think about our dreams, goals, fears, and the things that matter most to us. When we read the letter later, it can show us how much we’ve grown, what has changed, and what has stayed the same.
At a later date, the letter can remind us of our younger voice—what made us laugh, what we were proud of, and what we hoped for. It might surprise us, inspire us, or even make us smile. It’s like getting a message from the past that says, “Look how far you’ve come!”
Getting kids excited about writing to their future self can be both fun and meaningful! Here are several engaging strategies:
1. Make It a Time Capsule Activity
Explain that their letter will be like a treasure for their future self to open. Let them decorate envelopes or small boxes labeled “Open in 1 Year” (or whatever timeline you choose). This adds a sense of mystery and importance.
2. Show Examples
Read or share examples of letters written to the future, including age-appropriate ones from students or celebrities. Seeing real letters helps them visualize their own.
3. Use Prompts They Care About
Include fun and personal prompts like:
- What’s your favorite snack right now?
- Who are your best friends?
- What do you hope you’ve learned or done by next year?
4. Tie It to a Celebration
Plan a small ceremony for sealing and storing the letters. You could have students wear paper graduation caps or play music as they “send” their letters to the future.
5. Connect to Goals and Dreams
Frame it as a way to dream big. Encourage them to write about what they hope to be doing, where they want to travel, or what they hope to be better at.
6. Add a Creative Twist
Let them include a doodle, a small photo, or something that represents who they are right now. You can also offer a digital option (like a typed version saved by the teacher or emailed later).
A kid can put their letter to their future self in a special place where it will stay safe until it's time to open it. Where would you put a letter to your future self?
Here are some fun and meaningful options:
- Time Capsule Box
- Place the letter in a decorated shoebox or container labeled with “Open in [year]” and store it in a closet, drawer, or classroom.
- Sealed Envelope
- Seal the letter in an envelope and give it to a parent, teacher, or trusted adult to hold onto and return on a special date.
- Binder or Memory Book
- Include the letter in a personal journal, binder, or school memory book that they’ll look at in the future.
- School Keepsake Folder
- Teachers can collect all students’ letters and return them at the end of the school year or in a later grade.
- Digital Version
- For tech-friendly classrooms, kids can type their letters and email them to themselves with a future delivery tool like FutureMe.org.
No matter where it’s stored, the most important part is marking a “do not open until” date so it feels like a fun surprise from the past!
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