Long-Distance Grandparenting: Tips to Connect with Grandchildren When You’re Miles Apart

Consider a device like the no-frills, easy to use GrandPad. Its streamlined design can help you to communicate with loved ones.

Depending on the age of your grandchild, check out Facetime, Zoom, WhatsApp or Google Hangouts. They are free and easy to navigate online chat services and your older grandkids will be impressed with your tech savvy!

If creating and organizing your own online activities feels too stressful, consider subscribing to an online service like The Long-Distance Grandparent. They provide a variety of free and paid resources to help you strengthen the long-distance relationship with younger children.

Invite your grandchildren to send you digital projects, videos or messages through a variety of easy-to-use web or tablet applications. Children are usually well-versed on how to use many different tech tools and apps to design, create and communicate. Your grandchildren may even be able to teach you a thing or two about technology!

Purchase a digital picture frame that allows your grandkids or their parents to text photos to surprise you. You can also send a frame to your grandchildren so that you can share photos of your adventures.

Ask your children to send along video of your grandkids’ plays, recitals and sporting events. Then schedule time to watch the events with your grandchildren so they can see your reaction and enjoyment in real time.

Set up watch parties on a variety of streaming services. Your grandchildren will love spending time watching a movie or program with you. Popcorn is optional!

Read aloud or record stories for your grandchild, or write a story together, taking turns using a shared document on Google or another platform.

Send a care package with a handwritten card or note inside. Your grandchild will be thrilled to receive home baked goods and other surprises. Nothing says, “I love you”, quite like a box of personalized goodies and treats.

Create a ‘Birthday in a Box’ with a baked treat, streamers and presents. Schedule a Zoom, FaceTime or Google Hangout to celebrate with your grandchild.

Send a back-to-school (or college) surprise package with a new outfit, backpack and school supplies. 

Send flowers for special occasions. Even though you are not able to be there in person, your presence will be felt as the beautiful arrangement will serve as a reminder of your love.

Write heartfelt letters each year and save them in a keepsake box. Present the letters to your grandchild on a special date in the future.

If you’re able, consider supportingyour grandchildren financially.You may want to open or add funds to a 529 account to help pay for education expenses.

Purchase a special piece of jewelry or artwork that your grandchild will have as a loving memory for years to come. Or you can pass down an heirloom object that has family significance. 

Create a photo memory book featuring your yearly highlights and send it to your grandchildren. Encourage their parents to do the same for you.

Write or record family stories to share with your grandchildren. They will love to hear about your childhood adventures and those of their parents.

It’s important that you recognize when your grandchild may need some space, and it’s also important that you try to continue as a constant presence in their lives. 

Seek out a support group through your local council on aging or even asking other friends who are grandparents for their input. You may find comfort talking with the many grandparents in your community who are experiencing the same challenges. 

Enlist the support of your adult children. Allow them to help you navigate your relationship with your grandchildren. Let them know how you are feeling and actively listen to their advice and suggestions.