Growing up, my dad always stressed the importance of family. He told us that when the chips are down, your family will always be there to lift you up. And he was absolutely right.
Teaching your children to value their family, both immediate and extended, is giving them the gift of a lifelong support system. Even in this day and age, when circumstances, often employment opportunities, lead to extended families being scattered all over the state, country or even world, there are plenty of ways to stay close at heart.
Helping your kids to make a habit of keeping in touch with grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins while they’re young will not only bring much joy to everyone, but it will also translate to greater connections with you and their siblings when they become adults.
Staying connected has never been easier, and technology improves and expands the world of global communication virtually every day. There are lots of ways your kids can stay in touch with their extended family, and with your encouragement, it will become a great habit that they’ll carry on as they grow. And, someday, they’ll pass the lesson on to their children.
Help your kids keep the lines of communication open with the following:
- Making phone calls: With the convenience of cell phones and landlines, there is always time for a quick call. Help your children call their relatives from home or when they’re riding in the car. A quick call to Grandma will brighten her day and keep her in the loop.
- Writing letters: Once or twice a month, help your son or daughter choose someone different to send a letter or card to. To really spread the happiness and make it personal, let them draw a picture and put it in the envelope.
- Sending an e-mail: Writing a short message is as easy as pie, and it is sure to bring a smile to the lucky family member’s face. Attach a new photo or video for a special touch.
- Sending a virtual card: Most virtual cards online are free, and there are so many to choose from that your kids will have a blast picking out the perfect one.
- Texting: Sending a text message with a funny picture is a nice surprise. Your kids will enjoy it as much as your family will.
Keeping in touch with relatives will teach your children the value of family and the precious connection and support it provides. Your children will come to understand that no matter how far apart they may live, their family will always be close at heart.
How do you help your kids stay in touch with relatives?
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