Learn to use Technology

With the blessings of technology today, the greatest way to keep in touch with your long distant grandkids is to video chat on Facetime, Skype or Google Hangouts. When on a chat with young grandkids remember their attention span is about a minute per year in age so be prepared. Here are some ideas:

• Keeps age appropriate books handy and read them stories.
• Learn some silly songs with hand activities to teach them and sing with them. Our family has a Boogie Woogie version of This Little Piggy went to Market. The kids love it.
• Play games like I’m Thinking of Something.
• If they can read, have them read you stories.
• Babies love Peek-A-Boo.
• Chess games are fun with older children. Just both set up your boards and make sure you make moves for both of you.
• Story telling. My grandchildren love to hear about some of our antics as children.
• Play word games with them.

The important part is they get to know you and your voice and won’t feel uncomfortable when they see you in person. Every child should have photographs of their grandparents. An inexpensive album to slide prints into is a sweet gift followed by photos of current activities.