How to Maintain Long Distance Relationships Between Grandparents and Grandchildren

Two or three generations ago, grandparents and grandchildren typically lived in the same town or within close driving distance to each other. Others even shared their homes. In our ever changing world, more and more grandparents and grandchildren live long distances from each other. For many, states or even continents separate them. Like any other relationship, the grandparent/grandchild one needs to be nurtured to sustain the test of time. Long distances can make this an even bigger obstacle. Here are some suggestions for enhancing the long distance relationship between grandparent and grandchild.

Seeing each other as much as possible is so important for the grandparent/grandchild bond. Visiting at holidays, birthdays and other important milestones can help to build strong family ties. Make the most of every moment on those visits. Spend quality time together. Make traditions with your grandchildren. Some grandparents cook with their grandchildren. Others play sports with them. Pass along to your grandchild a hobby or craft that you've perfected over the years. Pass along your love of the theater or music.

Stay connected through phone calls, letters or emails. Grandparents can make a commitment to telephone their grandchildren on a regular basis. Parents can encourage a good relationship by letting children make phone calls to grandparents especially on birthdays, Mother's Day, Father's Day, Grandparents Day, Christmas, Thanksgiving and other special holidays. Sending emails with special pictures attached is such fun for children and grandparents alike. What grandparent doesn't like to receive a cute picture by email? Allow kids to draw special pictures or design cards for their grandparents and send them by mail. Send postcards of recent daytrips or vacations to each other.

Videos and photo montages are extra special treats for grandparents. There is nothing like seeing your grandchild in motion. Whether it is taking those first steps or hitting that first homerun, grandparents love to witness these victories.

Grandparents may want to pick out a favorite book to read on tape for their grandchild. Make it extra special and read a book that was a favorite of their mom or dad. The grandchild can carry the book in the car and listen to the tape or DVD.

Leave a legacy for your grandchildren by writing down your personal history. Think of it this way. What would I want my grandchildren to know about me if I was to die? What stories would I like them to know? What words of wisdom or advice would I like to give? Family history can be lost if it isn't passed down from one generation to the next. Take the time to tell your story to your grandchildren.