Why can’t grandchildren live nearby so that you could easily drop by, snuggle them, kiss them, hug them, and then be on your way? It would be so nice . . . .

Cheryl, from Connecticut, wrote and shared how she stays close with her grandchildren who live far from her. Cheryl writes:

“All of my 6 grandchildren, under the age of 4, live out of state, 5 of them across the country. We have had to become well acquainted with the local postmaster!! I have asked and researched many ideas so I can be the kind of grandmother to them that I would be if they lived across the street.

“First, I agree with the idea that the webcam can be a life savor. The cost of the camera is minimal, the download for the program is free, and the calls are free. We talk to the boys every night, read stories, and sing songs. We see them in their Halloween costumes before they trick or treat, and see them on other similar big events. They hold up their work from school for us to see. And, for the babies there is no longer stranger anxiety when they do see us because they see us all the time on the computer and hear our voices. A webcam is a must for long distance relationships.

“Also, I try to send packages once a month. Flat rate is the best deal. I put pictures that they might like on the outside and tape over them to hold them on. They can’t wait to get the mail which is sometimes just a letter with a picture of Superman. But it makes them happy. I make family games with our pictures and send the game to our grandchildren. We also have a camp in the summer and bring the oldest boys, age 3 and up, to our home for 2 weeks to spend time with us.

“I think when something is important to you, you find ways to make it work for you. I do know that creating a good relationship with grandchildren who do not live nearby can be accomplished if you really try. The only thing missing is the physical contact of the hugs. They do try to kiss the computer but it’s just not the same!!!!! Good luck and enjoy every moment of being a grandmother. It’s wonderful!!!!”

Aren’t these great ideas? My original thoughts about using a webcam were just to say hello and to chat. Using on Halloween, birthdays, Easter, Valentine’s Day, first day of school, after they’ve won a soccer game or built a snowman — basically ANY time — could be a great time to log on to say hi. Thank you Cheryl, for sharing your ideas.

If anybody else has different ideas on ways to strengthen relationships with grandchildren who live far away, feel free to share them here.  We need your ideas!!

Happy connecting!
The Digi-Gram

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