For families in the military community, frequent moves and long distances can make it challenging for grandparents to stay involved in the lives of their grandchildren. Maintaining those special bonds is essential, and with a little creativity and effort, families can help bridge the gap. Here are some practical ideas for keeping grandparents connected with military kids, no matter the miles.
1. Leverage Technology
Technology offers countless ways to keep grandparents and grandkids in touch, even from opposite sides of the globe. Consider these options:
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Video Calls: Schedule regular video chats using platforms like Zoom, FaceTime, or Skype. Make it a weekly ritual to catch up on news, share stories, or celebrate milestones.
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Shared Apps: Use apps like Marco Polo for sending video messages, or create a shared family photo album on Google Photos.
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Online Games: Connect through multiplayer games that both grandparents and kids can enjoy, such as Words With Friends or Animal Crossing.
2. Send Care Packages and Letters
Old-fashioned mail can be a delightful way to stay connected. Encourage grandparents and kids to exchange:
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Letters or Postcards: A handwritten note can mean so much and often becomes a keepsake.
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Artwork and Crafts: Kids can send drawings, homemade cards, or craft projects.
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Themed Care Packages: Celebrate holidays or special occasions by exchanging small gifts or treats.
3. Read Together Across the Distance
Sharing stories is a timeless way to connect. Make it a regular habit by:
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Virtual Storytime: Grandparents can read books aloud during a video call.
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Recording Stories: Have grandparents record themselves reading a favorite book so kids can listen anytime.
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Book Club: Choose a book for grandparents and kids to read together, then discuss it during calls or messages.
4. Create Shared Projects
Collaborating on projects can help strengthen bonds, even when far apart. Some ideas include:
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Family Recipe Book: Grandparents can teach kids how to cook favorite family recipes via video call or by sending instructions and photos.
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Scrapbooking: Work on a shared scrapbook that documents family memories, with grandparents and kids contributing pages.
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Gardening: If both have gardens, they can plant the same flowers or vegetables and compare progress over time.
5. Celebrate Milestones Together
Special occasions are opportunities to stay connected:
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Virtual Birthday Parties: Include grandparents via video call for singing, cake-cutting, and gift-opening.
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Graduations and Ceremonies: Stream school performances, sports games, or other big events.
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Holiday Traditions: Keep traditions alive by sending holiday care packages, sharing recipes, or decorating together virtually.
6. Encourage Storytelling and Family History
Grandparents can play an invaluable role in preserving family history. Help them share their stories by:
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Recording Oral Histories: Use apps like StoryCorps to capture their memories and experiences.
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Creating a Family Tree: Work together on building a family tree using genealogy tools like Ancestry.com.
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Story Swap: Encourage grandparents to share childhood memories and have kids share theirs in return.
7. Plan In-Person Visits When Possible
While distance often limits face-to-face time, making the most of visits is essential. When possible:
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Schedule Quality Time: Plan activities that grandparents and kids can enjoy together, like baking, fishing, or crafting.
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Capture Memories: Take plenty of photos and videos to revisit later.
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Plan for the Future: Look forward to the next visit and discuss activities to build excitement.
Final Thoughts
Grandparents play a vital role in the lives of military kids, providing love, wisdom, and a sense of continuity. By staying intentional and creative, families can help maintain strong relationships despite the distance. Whether it’s through technology, shared activities, or meaningful gestures, every effort to stay connected brings grandparents and grandchildren closer together.
For more family & relationship resources tailored to veterans, visit click HERE.
Written By: HelpVet.net
Photo Credit: Canva
