How to Maintain a long distance relationship-with your grandchild

Many of us live far away from our favorite people-our grandkids. Luckily there are many ways to connected.

Grandparents in the digital age

The Internet can add a whole new dimension to long-distance grandparenting. Email, instant messaging, and video conferencing can all help to shrink the miles and keep you in touch with your grandchildren. Use the available technology to engage your grandchild in creative activities rather than simply asking, “How’s school?” For example, you can play online games with your grandchild, start an online book club or fantasy sports league with them, or share videos of you or your grandkids enjoying a favorite hobby. Try exchanging jokes or favorite family recipes via email, or have them scan or fax report cards or pictures they’ve drawn.

Other ways to stay connected

As well as the Internet, there are plenty of other ways to help long-distance grandparenting:

• Discount long-distance phone plans or inexpensive phone cards (even international ones) make it possible to say in touch regardless of the distance. Try calling at a regular time when your grandchild is not rushed and has time to talk. When talking to your grandchildren, make notes about their interests, books they’ve been reading, their doll’s name—anything you can repeat in the next conversation so they know you’ve been listening.
• Snail mail. Even before a child can read, he or she will be able to recognize their name on an envelope, and will love the feeling of importance implied by receiving mail.
• Audio or video recordings. You can record yourself reading a few of your favorite children’s books and send the recording along with the books, or make a tape of songs you would sing if you were together.
• Family scrapbooks. Kids love to hear stories about their family. If you can’t be with them to recount family stories first hand, try writing them down. Add photos or create a scrapbook (online or off). Encourage your grandkids to add their own memories and photos.

All of these small things communicate your interest and love.  Whenever possible, though, try to be present for the most important events in your grandchild’s life, such as graduations, recitals, holidays, or whatever events are important to your family.

For more great grand-parenting tips and ideas  See: The Help Guide