I’ve been stuck in this house with my family for what feels like eternity. It’s only been since March, but that’s like forever for my endlessly traveling family. By May, we were climbing the walls and itching to rejoin society or at least see friends and family. (Note: don’t do that because of germs– it’s still a pandemic, y’all!)
Instead, I’ve channeled all of my energy to care packages. Similarly, my mom has turned into the care package queen. I think we are keeping the USPS financially solvent just with our mail!
1. Daily safety kit
Eventually you will need to leave your house or street or immediate neighborhood. When that moment comes, you’ll want to be as safe as possible. This care package is perfect for the day you venture forth.
Include:
- Face masks in a cute, washable pattern
- Hand sanitizer with a fun scent
- Sanitizing wipes
- A ruler – to measure 6-8 feet, obviously
- Relaxing tea for the post-trip wind down
- Cleansing body wash
2. Grandma’s craft club
My mom, as mentioned, is a pro at creating thoughtful, hand-made or personally selected packages for my little ones. One of the absolute faves of quarantine are her craft kits. This one takes a little bit of work but (since I’m not the one doing it) it’s worth it.
Include:
- Directions for the craft(s)
- Materials for the craft(s)
- Note or little card with a sweet message
Make sure you schedule a time for the kids to do the craft with you!
3. United Through Reading
I love the United Through Reading program! If you have a location near you, make an appointment to select a book and record yourself reading. Your child will get to see you or a loved one reading a story to them. Now, with the app, it’s even easier for everyone to participate in UTR!
You can build a whole care package around your United Through Reading video! Inside the package, include:
- Your video (check with the site coordinator for info about sending your video)
- The book you read
- A cozy blanket
- Yummy snacks
- Letter to the child or service member that expresses your love
Don’t make this a one-time care package. Instead, plan to repeat this process frequently. You’ll be able to cuddle up and read together, even when socially distancing.
4. Spa-in-a-box
Being in the house all day, every day while working and virtually educating my children is kind of a lot sometimes. Frankly, I need a minute to myself.
I’m guessing I’m not the only person at the end of her quarantine rope either.
To help your friend or family member relax, send a spa kit! You can use a pre-packaged kit from Lush or DIY your own personalized gift! Include:
- Face mask
- Nail polish
- Body scrub
- Bubble bath
- Body lotion
- Candle or essential oil– depending on your friend’s personality!
5. Sip, sip, soothe
When I’m stressed out, there is nothing like a nice cup of tea at the end of the day to help me relax. Add a little local honey and maybe a yummy scone and I’m set!
Help a loved one recreate the same soothing experience by building a care package with:
- Your favorite caffeine-free tea
- Local honey
- Mason jar filled with the pre-measured dry ingredients for a sweet snack
- Recipe to complete the baking project
- Something else soothing: essential oils roller, hand lotion, cozy slippers, face mask, etc.
6. I wish you were here
When a pandemic prevents you from seeing anyone outside your home or immediate neighbors for months at a time, it can get rough trying to maintain connections. When you’re really missing your loved ones, send a care package filled with sentimental tokens and local flavor. You could include:
- Favorite picture of you together
- Frame for the picture
- Homesick candle
- Snacks from your current location
- Sentimental, heartfelt note from you to them
7. Socially distant celebrations
Even though we’re all separated, life still goes on. Holidays are happening and birthdays need to be marked. When you need to celebrate something special, but can’t be there in person, send this care package! Switch up the theme based on the occasion, but you could include:
- Small decor items
- Photo booth props
- Dry ingredients for a celebratory treat
- Selection of small treats: candy for Halloween, pumpkin seeds for Thanksgiving, gold coins for Hanukkah, candy canes for Christmas and the recipients favorite candy for birthdays
- More small gifts that fit the occasion and the recipient’s personality
Keep reading…
- Use These Awesome Ideas for Your Next Care Package
- Here’s the Best Way to Mail a Care Package
- 40 Ways to Save Money on Care Packages
Meg Flanagan is a teacher, blogger and military spouse. She owns Meg Flanagan Education Solutions, an education advocacy service dedicated to serving families on the K-12 journey. You can find Meg on Facebook. Meg is also available as a freelance writer and personal education advocate!
