Ideas for Connecting with Grands Far Away

Far and away the best thing that has happened for grandparents that live far and away from their grandchildren is technology. Here are a couple of tech-based joy and connection bringers:

1. Our pandemic buddy Zoom, is still going strong on a number of fronts, and one of those is the family connection front. We can read books to our grandkids over Zoom! We can do this live, or make a recording and send it to them. I have found it helpful to have someone next to me, holding the book and turning the pages). A “fam fav” here is The Velveteen Rabbit, because it’s not too short, not too long, and it’s super engaging. it’s so well written!! Not feeling the read-aloud vibe? you could also send them a link (see Youtube) to Meryl Streep’s rendition of this timeless classic. If you are visiting grands, you could also snuggle up and watch it together.

Of course, there are seemingly endless fun book options! Thanks, Zoom, for helping up make priceless family memories.

2. We can leave messages over DUO. This is an app worthy of your phone,  even if it’s just for its fun, animated filtering options! How to find them: Ask parents to let your phone call ring through so that the message feature pops up. Then just look to the right side of the screen for the filter and effects options. Play around with your choices here. You can become an animated talking flower, a talking planet, and so much more. For example, you can have a silly cartoon octopus or funny, cute frog sitting on your head while you leave a silly and/or encouraging message for your grandchildren! I have loved this feature, and have received return silly messages from grandkids!

Enjoy!!:D:D:D