I was ridiculously lucky, growing up, to be close to my grandparents, both physically and emotionally. Not all families have the luxury to live near each other, but there are still many ways to be a great part of each other's lives! This guest post from Alyssa Craig shares some ideas for keeping close, even when you're not together.
The holidays are a time of much merriment, celebration and family get togethers. But this year you may find yourself unable to be with your grandparents due to distance, finances, or illness. If this is the case, keep your chin up! There are many ways you can connect with them throughout the holidays and stay as involved in each other’s celebrations as possible. Consider some of these tips as you make your holiday plans.
| Holiday Treats: Does your family have a secret sugar cookie recipe that comes out this time of year, or a special cake that is always present at holiday dinners? Send your grandparents some homemade treats, or if you are concerned about it arriving in one piece, the dry ingredients needed to make it. The latter option also allows them to fill their home with scents of treats they usually associate with the holidays. Gifts and Stocking Stuffers: Be sure to send your grandparents the presents and stocking stuffers they would normally receive if everyone were present for the holidays. This may be a good time to make sure the gifts are especially personal and show that you are thinking of them, even though you are far apart. Video/Audio of the Family: Especially if you are not able to see your grandparents very much throughout the year, one great item to include in a care package is either a video or an audio recording of the family wishing them a happy holiday. You can even go so far as to have each family member record their favorite memory from the year or what they want to accomplish the following year. This will be a great keepsake for them to replay during any time of year. A Personal Touch: Include something homemade to give your care package that personal touch. Handwritten letters are a great way to help your grandparents feel loved. Consider writing a note for each of the twelve days of Christmas or the eight days of Hanukkah, so there is something to look forward to each day. |
Care Packages
The most important part of staying connected through the holidays will be to continue traditions as normally as possible to help the grandparents still feel involved. A care package is a great way to make sure they have all the necessities ready so they can participate in family traditions throughout the holiday season. Consider sending some of the following items:
The most important part of staying connected through the holidays will be to continue traditions as normally as possible to help the grandparents still feel involved. A care package is a great way to make sure they have all the necessities ready so they can participate in family traditions throughout the holiday season. Consider sending some of the following items:
If your family members live internationally, shipping prices can often be pretty expensive. To avoid this, consider purchasing gifts online and having them shipped directly to them. Not only will this save you time but you can also avoid a hectic trip to the post office.
Technology
One of the best ways to help your grandparents stay involved in the holiday festivities is through the use of technology. Keep in mind that not everyone is comfortable with various forms of technology, so you may need to follow these tips to help them set it up and teach them how to use it in advance. This will help reduce stress on the actual holiday.
| Webcam: Help your grandparents acquire and set up a webcam that can be used all year long, not just during the holidays! This will help everyone be able to talk, interact and allow them to take part in the festivities from afar. Text or Email Pictures: Smart phones have made taking and sending pictures so quick and easy! As family traditions are taking place, take pictures and either email or text it to your grandparents (depending on their level of technological savvy) to help them feel included. They will also love to be able to keep the pictures on their computers and phones. Call: Yes, these phones also make phone calls! Call your grandparents often during the holiday season and keep them up to date on what you have been doing. You may also think about calling to sing carols together or even stay on the line while watching a favorite holiday movie at the same time. |
It is easy for grandparents to feel left out of the holidays if they live far away. Luckily, there are many ways for you to feel connected throughout the season and continue experiencing fun holiday traditions.
