How To Keep Your Extended Family Involved In Your Kids’ Lives
It can be tough to keep the extended family involved in your kids’ lives, especially if they live far away. Thankfully, technology has made it easier than ever for grandparents and other relatives to stay connected with their loved ones.
For our discussion today, we recommend a few apps for grandparents and activities that can help you stay connected with your extended family. We will also provide some tips on how to make the most of your time together.
Family Bonding In the Technological Age
In today’s world, it is not uncommon for family members to live in different parts of the country or even the world. While this can be difficult, many ways exist to stay connected with loved ones who live far away. One way to stay connected is through apps designed specifically for video calling and messaging. Apps such as:
Skype
This app is a great way to connect with loved ones who live far away. You can receive free video, voice, and instant messages over an internet connection. Moreover, you can also create group chats so the whole family can stay connected even when they’re on the go.
FaceTime
This app is available on all Apple devices and allows users to make HD video calls for free. If you have relatives who live in different parts of the world, this is a great way to keep in touch without racking up a huge phone bill.
Another great option for video and audio calling, WhatsApp offers instant messaging and group chat features. WhatsApp is a great option if you have relatives who live in different time zones, as it offers a convenient way to stay in touch without coordinating schedules.
Many other apps offer similar features, so explore all the options and find the one that works best for you and your family.
Apps and Activities That Can Help With This Goal
In addition to apps, you can also do various activities with your kids to help them bond with their extended family members. Here are a few ideas:
Share Photos and Stories From Your Day-to-Day Life
Share photos and stories from your day-to-day life to keep your loved ones updated on what’s going on in your life. This is a great way to stay connected and let your loved ones feel like they are a part of your life, even if they live far away. Check out apps like Snapchat, Instagram, and Facebook to get started.
Play Games Together
Many online games can be played with multiple players. This is a great way to bond with your kids and their extended family members, as it gives you all a chance to interact and have fun together. We recommend games such as:
- Words With Friends
- Scrabble
- Monopoly
- Candy Crush
Do a Craft or Activity Together
Many crafts and activities can be done virtually. This is a great way to bond with your kids and their extended family members, as it gives you all a chance to interact and learn new things together. Some ideas for virtual crafts and activities include:
- Painting
- Drawing
- Cooking/baking
- Building puzzles
Watch Movies or TV Shows Together
Another great bonding activity is watching movies or TV shows together. You can use apps like Netflix Party or Hulu Party to watch shows and movies simultaneously while chatting. This is a great way to bond with your loved ones and stay up-to-date on your favorite shows.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Time Together
No matter how you stay connected with your extended family, you can do a few things to make the most of your time together. Here are a few tips:
Make Sure Everyone Is On the Same Page
It is important to ensure everyone is on the same page before you start any activity. This means sending out a clear schedule or agenda beforehand so everyone knows what to expect. This will help avoid any confusion or frustration later on.
Set Ground Rules
It’s also important to set ground rules before getting started. This will help ensure that everyone is respectful and considerate of each other. For example, you may want to rule that everyone must mute their microphone when someone else is talking.
Be Patient
With anything in life, it’s important to be patient. Things may not always go as planned, but staying flexible and going with the flow is important. After all, the goal is to have fun and bond with your loved ones.
Wrapping Up: Importance of Staying Connected
Thanks to technology, there are now more ways than ever for grandparents and other relatives to stay connected with their loved ones, even if they live far away. While apps and activities can help with this goal, it’s also important to be patient and set ground rules to ensure everyone has a good time. Most importantly, you take the time to bond with your loved ones and create lasting memories together.
FAQs
How can I keep my extended family involved in my kids’ lives?
Encourage regular visits, video calls, and family activities to keep everyone connected and engaged.
What are some activities you can do with extended family?
Plan family dinners, game nights, outings, and vacations to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.
Why is it important to involve extended family in kids’ lives?
Involving extended family helps children build a strong support system, learn family traditions, and develop a sense of belonging.
How can technology help keep the extended family connected?
Utilize video calls, social media, and messaging apps to stay in touch regularly, especially if family members live far away.
What if my extended family is not nearby?
To maintain a strong connection, schedule regular virtual meet-ups, send photos and videos, and plan occasional visits.
I hope this helps! Is there anything else you’d like to add or modify? Please Comment or Email us.