Long Distance Grandparents Get Closer with Skype

Your kids have gotten great employment opportunities in far away towns and you miss them but are proud of their accomplishments. But then a baby comes along and you are not able to be the kind of grandparent you had hoped to be - one who is involved and a constant presence in their lives. It's not at all unusual for grandparents today to see their grandchildren once a year at Christmas or some other holiday and speak to them with occasional phone calls. You miss watching new babies grow and seeing the milestones in their development. So what can you do to bridge the distance and get closer to your grandkids? Use Skype!

It's time to get a computer

If you are reading this article you have a computer. But if you know someone who doesn't and has grandkids far away do them a favor and encourage them to get a computer. If they don't know how to use it there are many people ready to come to their home to give them a quick lesson. And many stores will help you set up the computer in your home. Computers have become almost as important as refrigerators and a grandparents with kids far away need to use the computer to keep in touch. It's very unlikely that there isn't a computer in their grandkids home. They will need and internet connection which usually comes as part of the software with the computer. If you already have this -great. If you don't you really need it.

Get an inexpensive camera and a microphone for the computer

I've seen these things for $20. If you are buying a computer get it when you make the purchase and let them install it for you.

Download Skype

Skype (www.skype.com) is a free program that allows you to speak to people who also use the program . That's why you need the mic. But the great thing about Skype is it also allows you to see the person you are speaking to. That's why you need the camera. You can see that new grandchild every day even if they can't speak to you. The baby can hear your voice and see you as they get old enough. If you only use your computer for this you will be getting good use from your investment.

Use your time well

Be creative. You just don't have to talk. If your grandchild is about 5 years old or older you can do things together while you are on Skype. Projects that continue make a child look forward to the call. Plant a seed in a pot together and watch it grow. You can help with homework, do art projects, sing together or do anything else you are into. Children will get bored with conversation. You want them to anticipate your next call. Since the service is free you can be together as long as you want and not worry about cost. Children love to use the computer and it won't be long before they will be old enough to contact you themselves.