Long Distance Holiday Ideas

Last week my husband and I went to dinner with his sister and brother-in-law. We got on the subject of long distance grandkids because all of their grandkids are long distance. His sister told me I needed to share more ideas about how to stay connected with grandkids that are far away on this blog. So, with the holidays approaching, I thought I'd do some research to find some ideas that might help those who have long distance grandkids to be a part of their holiday celebrations.

1. Virtual Holiday Gatherings

Thanks to video conferencing tools like Zoom, Skype, or FaceTime, you can bring your long-distance family right into your living room. Schedule a virtual holiday gathering where you can share stories, open gifts, or even cook and bake together. Set a specific time for the event and make sure everyone has the necessary technology and an internet connection.

1. Create a Holiday Recipe Book

Food is a big part of holiday celebrations, and many families have traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. Share your family's recipes with your grandkids by creating a holiday recipe book. You can include stories and memories related to each dish, making it a meaningful and educational experience for your grandkids.

2. Storytelling Time

Grandparents have a lot of stories and memories to share. Consider setting up a regular storytelling time during the holidays where you can share family stories, anecdotes, or even read holiday-themed books together over video calls. This not only fosters a deeper connection but also keeps family history alive.

3. Holiday Craft Exchange

Encourage creativity by organizing a holiday craft exchange with your long-distance grandkids. Share craft ideas and materials ahead of time and schedule a virtual crafting session where you can all work on your projects together. Then, exchange your creations by mailing them to each other. This activity not only promotes bonding but also results in handmade holiday keepsakes.

4. Collaborative Holiday Decorations

Decorating for the holidays is a beloved tradition for many families. Even if you can't be there in person, you can still make it a collaborative effort. Set up a virtual decorating session where you and your grandkids can decorate your respective homes while sharing ideas, tips, and progress through video calls. This way, you'll feel like you're decorating together, despite the distance.

5. Surprise Care Packages

Sending surprise holiday care packages can be a delightful way to stay connected. Include handwritten letters, small gifts, and holiday-themed items like ornaments, cookies, or hot cocoa mix. Who doesn't enjoy receiving something fun in the mail?

These are just a few of the ideas I found. I'm sure there are many possibilities. Be creative. You can also do a Google Search or look on Pinterest for more ideas. Don't let the distance keep you from spending time with family. You may be able to start a new holiday tradition that your grandkids will look forward to every year!