Reminiscence boxes and memory boxes: a practical guide to themed reminiscence work

A reminiscence box is a collection of objects, photos and sometimes audio clips built around one theme — school days, an old-fashioned kitchen, a trade, a holiday — meant to spark shared memories together. Where a life book is about one person, a box is aimed at a shared theme from a certain period, which makes it well suited to group use.

What’s in a reminiscence box

The exact contents vary by theme, but usually include a mix of tangible objects (an old-fashioned iron, a tin box, a school slate), photos or postcards, and sometimes an audio clip or short video. Popular themes include school days, doing the laundry, a trade or craft, a holiday, and the war. Heritage organisations in the Netherlands and Belgium have put together dozens of these boxes, often with an accompanying card of conversation questions for each object.

Where to borrow a box

In Flanders, several heritage centres (including Erfgoedcel Brugge and regional partnerships) offer reminiscence boxes free to borrow, usually for a period of a few weeks. They’re mostly borrowed by care homes and day centres, but also by family carers and individuals wanting to organise something. In the Netherlands, some libraries and local heritage institutions offer similar lending boxes; ask your local library or museum whether they’re affiliated with such a scheme.

Putting together your own box

No lending box nearby, or want something tailored to one specific person or family? A box of your own is a good alternative:

1. Pick a theme: something concrete works better than “the old days” in general — think school days, a specific trade, or a past holiday destination.
2. Gather tangible objects: a tangible object often evokes more than a photo alone. Thrift shops and flea markets are a good source.
3. Add photos and possibly audio: old postcards, magazines or a song from the era strengthen the effect.
4. Write down a few conversation questions: “Did you have this at home too?” or “What did you use this for?” work better than open questions like “What does this make you think of?”.
5. Use the box actively: let people touch and pick up objects rather than just showing them — tangible contact is often what triggers the memory.

Who a box is suited to

A reminiscence box works both individually and in a group, and in practice is used most in care homes and day care, but works just as well for a family carer at home. See also making a life book for an approach tailored to one person specifically, or sensory reminiscence for more on using tangible and sensory cues.