Getting Your Grandparents Online
Spanning Generations Through the Use of a Computer
Grandparents enjoy keeping in touch with their grandkids, but distances can make that hard to do. Here are some ways to get grandparents online to keep bonds strong.
Kids enjoy spending some of their summer vacation time with their grandparents. It is a time to really connect and get to know each other's interest and even discover things that you have in common. Summer nights can be spent playing games, watching home movies, and sneaking in a late night snack.
But what happens when school starts up again and schedules make getting together harder? Does the connection have to fade away until the next summer break? Absolutely not! If grandparents are willing to stretch just a bit and learn ways to use their computers for communication, the closeness can be kept alive. Here are some ways to stay in touch.
Sending quick messages a few times a week will keep tweens and their grandparents in touch. It does not have to be lengthy letters, but just little notes that say, "I was thinking about you today," or "Hey, my team won their game last night!" It's just like getting an unexpected letter in the mail.
Instant Messaging
Kids spend a lot of time instant messaging each other, so why not add the grandparents to the list? It is very easy to get them set up, and once they are up and going, it will be fun to "talk" when there is time.
Sharing Photos
Computers make it so easy to share photo albums online. With programs such as Flickr, Shutterfly, and Photo Bucket, you can have up-to-date pictures online in no time. Just be aware that before you sign up with a place that you will have a protected password so your photos will only be shared with those that you intend for them to be shared with.
Playing Games
Remember those nights staying up and playing games together? They don't have to end after summer is over. Places like itsyourturn.com let you sign in and play only with the person you choose. It is free to join, and they offer lots of different games to play, like Checkers, Backgammon, Battleship, Othello, and many more.
Start Blogging
Grandparents and kids who want to keep in touch with multiple family members may find building a blog the perfect solution. You can post messages and encourage all family members to respond with messages. Some good websites for setting up a blog are Connected Family and Multiply.com. Get your aunts, uncles, and cousins in on it, too!
Now you do not have to wait for summertime and special occasions to see your loved ones. Keep the bonds strong through online activities. They are lots of fun!
