The long-distance grandparent survival guide
23 Nov 2016
Maintaining long-distance relationships has been made easier thanks to the beauty of technology. Although it pales in comparison to the real thing, video chat programs like FaceTime and Skype are a great way to keep
up-to-date and stay connected with the favourite little people in your lives.
Easy and free to use
Available on various devices such as tablets, laptops and smartphones, the ease and accessibility of FaceTime and Skype allows for continuity in the relationship to happen more frequently and conveniently. While FaceTime is limited to Apple devices, Skype is available on any computer platform, obtainable through one simple download. Ensuring that both parties have the same program installed, it is free to use which means that even overseas calls won’t cost you a cent.
A great way to strengthen your bond
As part of the digital generation, children are more susceptible to technology which is why communicating via a face-to-face interaction technology can offer better results than just a phone call or a letter. The visual aspect adds an extra level of connection and it helps both parties understand and interact with people of different ages.
Tips for chatting with young children
While you may feel like calling your grandchildren as often as you’d like, you have to be mindful of ‘toddler time’. This means not only preparing for technical difficulties like accidental hang-ups or slow internet connection, but also their short attention spans. Make sure you time the chats carefully, work around their schedules and catch them at their best times. Always position the screen so that you’re making direct eye contact as this will keep them more engaged.
The most successful calls are when both sides are participating in the conversation. Instead of simply speaking to one another during the video call, which is fine, you could try one of these activities to help keep the conversation fun and different, as well as keeping your grandchildren interested for longer.
● Object guessing game: this involves selecting random objects from around the house and making the other person guess what it is. This game works best when using colourful, strange looking objects.
● Story time read-a-longs: take turns reading the same book to each other over your video chat sessions. Pick a book that has bold illustrations and minimal text.
● Find the alphabet: take turns choosing a letter while the other person has to find an object nearby that starts with that letter.
● Simon Says: a classic children’s game where one person is designated as ‘Simon’ and instructs the others to do things, however the other players must remember to only obey ‘Simon’s’ commands when they begin with the phrase “Simon says…”.
● Using puppets and wearable props during the conversation can also help with keeping young children engaged.
● Apple offers downloadable games to play during FaceTime calls where both participants can get involved. A small fee may apply.
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