Staying connected with grandkids isn’t just about making a phone call anymore. Today’s video call technology allows grandparents and grandchildren to interact in ways that are fun, meaningful, and engaging.
Using video chat apps like FaceTime, Zoom, and Facebook Messenger, many grandparents are finding new ways to make virtual visits feel as special as in-person moments. Here’s how you can make your calls more interactive and enjoyable.
Step 1: Elevating Your Setup for a Better Experience
To truly make the most of your video calls, ensuring your setup works for you and your grandchild is important.
- Lighting Matters: Proper lighting helps make your calls feel warm and inviting. A simple table lamp or natural light from a window can make all the difference, creating an atmosphere that makes your grandchild feel comfortable and engaged.
- Sound Clarity: External microphones or Bluetooth devices can enhance audio clarity, ensuring you and your grandchild hear each other. This is especially helpful if you're chatting with little ones who might get restless sitting in one place.
- Smart Displays: Consider devices like an Amazon Echo Show or Google Nest Hub for hands-free convenience, especially if you enjoy doing activities via video. These devices allow for seamless interaction, making connecting easier while baking cookies, singing songs, or even trying yoga together.
- Positioning Matters: Ensure your device, whether an iPad or tablet, is positioned at eye level for a more natural conversation. A stable setup helps reduce distractions and lets you focus fully on your grandchild’s expressions and gestures.
Pro Tip: Investing in a stable internet connection helps avoid interruptions, ensures a seamless experience, and keeps your loved ones engaged throughout the call.
Step 2: Exploring Advanced Features of Popular Video Call Apps
Most video chat apps offer features beyond just talking—exploring them can make your calls more exciting.
- FaceTime or Zoom: Try using fun filters, Animojis, or SharePlay to watch shows together.
- Facebook Messenger: Interactive games and playful stickers can keep younger grandkids engaged.
- Google Duo: Family mode allows on-screen doodling, adding an extra layer of fun to your chats.
Pro Tip: Customize privacy settings to control who can connect with you and ensure a safe environment.
Step 3: Engaging Activities to Keep Grandkids Excited
If you want to talk with your grandkids for more than a few minutes, having engaging activities planned is key. Here are a few ideas:
- Read Books Together: Use your tablet or phone to share an online storybook and take turns reading.
- Sing Songs: Singing nursery rhymes or their favorite songs keeps even very young children entertained.
- Play Games: Games like "I Spy" or interactive puzzles can turn your video call into an adventure.
- Cook Together: Plan a simple recipe like baking cookies or making sandwiches.
- Art Time: Encourage creativity by drawing, painting, or crafting during your chat.
Pro Tip: Keep activities short and varied to match their attention span.
Step 4: Incorporating Hobbies and Interests
One of the best ways to engage your grandchild from far away is to share your hobbies with them, turning video calls into an exciting way to connect beyond just chatting.
- Gardening: Show off your garden via video and ask for their suggestions on planting flowers. You can even let them help you choose colors for your next flower bed.
- DIY Projects: Work on fun crafts like making greeting cards together. This can be a great way to engage young children and keep their imagination flowing, especially if they are restless.
- Music Sessions: Play an instrument while they sing or dance together. Whether it’s a quick jam session or a full concert, this special time can make your calls more interactive.
- Storytelling with Albums: Share old photo albums and tell stories about family members they may not have met, making them feel more connected to their extended family.
- Creative Play with Toys: Bring out their favorite toy and create an engaging scenario virtually, helping to foster their creativity and curiosity.
Pro Tip: Let them take the lead sometimes—kids love sharing their interests, too, whether it’s a new hobby, favorite show, or a child’s latest school project.
Step 5: Making Virtual Calls a Part of Daily Life
Creating routines around video calls helps strengthen the bond between grandparents and grandchildren:
- Morning Check-ins: A quick chat over breakfast can be a great start to the day.
- Bedtime Stories: Wind down the evening with a comforting story.
- Special Themed Calls: Dress up for a fun "costume day" or have a "show and tell" session.
Pro Tip: Use a shared calendar or reminders to schedule regular calls.
Step 6: Handling Common Technical Challenges with Confidence
Sometimes, technology acts up, but a few simple steps can help troubleshoot common issues and keep your connection with your grandchild seamless and enjoyable:
- Poor Video Quality: Close unused apps and ensure you're in a good Wi-Fi zone. If you're using platforms like FaceTime, ensure background apps aren't consuming bandwidth and interfering with viewing quality.
- Audio Troubles: Check if the device is muted or try using headphones. Sometimes, screen time restrictions or privacy policy settings can mute the microphone.
- Dropped Calls: Restart your device or switch to a different app like Zoom or Skype, especially during high-traffic times of day when networks may be congested.
- Screen Freezes: Ensure your device is updated and free from unnecessary files that could slow performance, particularly during extended family video chats.
Pro Tip: Always have a backup app ready, such as Google Duo, if your primary choice isn't working. It's also a good idea to do a quick check-in with a family member to troubleshoot any persistent issues.
Step 7: Strengthening Emotional Bonds Through Virtual Connection
It's not just about using video chat; it's about making sure your grandchild feels loved and valued.
- Let them talk about their day and ask open-ended questions.
- Show genuine curiosity about their interests and encourage their creativity.
- Be responsive and use gestures to make conversations feel more engaging.
Pro Tip: The most important thing is to stay in touch regularly and make your calls meaningful.
Conclusion: Building Meaningful Virtual Connections
Making video calls special doesn’t take much—just a little imagination and planning. With the right tools and creativity, you can turn a simple video chat into a cherished moment that your grandchild will remember.
You can read a book together, play an interactive game, or simply share a virtual meal; these calls can become part of your family’s treasured traditions.
If you're looking for support to age comfortably and independently in the home you love, contact Kendal at Home today. We’ll provide you with the resources and personalized care planning you need to live life on your terms.
