Beach Vacation Mementoes: DIY Projects for Children

We recently had a very memorable family beach vacation in Marco Island, Florida, and I wanted to do an easy and fun art project with 19 month old Baby that would result in a special memento of our trip.
While in Marco Island, we collected many beautiful shells. Playing with shells was also a fun activity that Baby participated in almost every single day on the beach, so I knew it would be a nice reminder for him of our beach time all together.
When we got home, Baby and I took out all of our shells and filled a glass vase that we had from a flower delivery.
As Baby and I filled the vase, we played one of our favorite games. I say: "Remember when..." and fill in a memory that is easily accessible to Baby, and he attempts to say any of the words that fit the story, or he uses actions and signs to tell his part.
As we shared memories together, here is what we created:


We certainly won't forget our special time together - especially with this beautiful memento in our bathroom!
Another beach vacation memento project, which one of my close friends from college introduced me to, is to collect sand from all of the beaches you visit. You then fill small glass jars with the sand and label each jar. It's amazing how different sand can look from different places, and it looks really beautiful to have the sand-filled glass jars lining shelves in your home.
I would love to hear your suggestions for creating vacation mementoes with children in the comments section below!