The holidays are a time when families are busy with various activities, school plays, parties, shopping for decorations or presents and planning the big meals. This year looks a little different for most. Even if we may not be able to get together with loved ones, thanks to technology, there are many ways to stay connected with them.
Video call (think Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts, FaceTime)
You could use a video call to have the family prep dinner together while sharing stories of holidays past or something they’re thankful for this year. Or, once everyone is ready to eat (hopefully at a similar time!), hop on a call and enjoy the feast (virtually) together. If this feels like too much pressure, make the call on the night before or after while there’s not so much going on. It could even be for a few minutes to have an appetizer or a toast together.
Another way to use a video calling service is to have grandma/grandpa, aunts, cousins, etc. read to the little ones in the family and vice versa! Each side can cozy up in their pjs, grab a blanket and the same book and flip through the pages together. If reading virtually doesn’t work out, just share stories. There’s always at least one story that people know by heart or can make up for the pure excitement of the little kids in the family.
Play games! Pictionary, Hangman, and trivia are just a few examples of games you can play virtually. Just make sure everyone has the required materials on their end.
Netflix Party
Netflix has something called Netflix Party where people can join a virtual watch party for the same movie. Perfect for those that get together to watch Christmas movies or the big game after Thanksgiving. (Don’t have Netflix? Use the same video calling service as mentioned above and it’s the same thing!)
Care Packages
Taking note from military families worldwide – send a care package to your family! Do you have a favorite cookie you make every year? Send the ingredients and instructions so that they can make them also. One step further is to send a meal or dish to your loved ones already made (Harry & David, Omaha Steaks, and Williams & Sonoma are a few examples but local places in your area may be doing this as well!)
Have the kiddos draw pictures or write letters to the family they aren’t getting to see this year. Sometimes, an old-fashioned note in the mail is the best way to stay connected. Especially when technology isn’t a viable option for some.
Virtual Secret Santa
Play Secret Santa virtually! Use a name generator online and send the rules of the game to everyone with enough notice for everyone to join in.
Does your family attend a Christmas Eve service? Your church may be hosting one virtually this year and you can gather at home to attend. Make-believe you are still going in person and put on the same clothes you would normally wear to make it special.
On a personal note, my 90-year-old mama learned to do FaceTime this year. She resists learning anything new and will freely tell you that. We met our first great-grandson via FaceTime because COVID-19 interfered with our trip.
In a year when so many of us will be apart this holiday season, there are still ways to be together. Some just take a little planning!
