10 Simple Ways to Use Technology to Bond with Your Grandkids

Even if you’re not a tech expert!

We might not have grown up with smartphones and video chats, but that doesn’t mean we can’t use today’s technology to grow closer to our grandkids. In fact, learning just a few simple tools can open up fun, meaningful ways to connect—even from far away.

Here are ten easy and enjoyable ideas to help you use technology to make sweet memories together:

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1. Add a Twist to Video Calls

An elderly woman sits on a couch making a heart shape with her hands while having a video call on a laptop. On the screen, a smiling family of three—two women and a young child—pose happily in their home. — Freepik

Sure, FaceTime and Zoom are great—but why not make them extra special? Try reading a bedtime story, playing “I Spy,” or showing off silly hats during the call. Adding a playful activity gives your grandchild something to look forward to!

2. Record a Storytime Video

Pick a favorite book and record yourself reading it aloud. You can add fun voices or even dress up like one of the characters. Then, send the video so your grandchild can enjoy it anytime—especially at bedtime.

3. Plan a Virtual Game Night

Many classic games are now online! You can play Uno, checkers, or even drawing games like Skribbl.io together. Most are free and easy to learn, and your grandkids will love teaching you how to play.

4. Send Voice Messages

Use your phone’s voice recorder or messaging app to send a quick “Hello!” You can share a joke, sing a song, or tell a short story. Kids love hearing your voice, and it’s a fun surprise for their day.

5. Create a Shared Photo Album

Use apps like Google Photos or FamilyAlbum to share pictures. You can upload photos of your garden, pets, or crafts, and your grandkids can share their own snapshots too. It’s like a digital scrapbook you build together!

6. Watch a Movie “Together”

You don’t have to be in the same room to enjoy a movie night! Use apps like Teleparty (formerly Netflix Party), or simply press play at the same time and text or call during the show. Laughing at the same scenes makes it feel like you’re right there together.

7. Write Weekly Emails

Send a short email once a week. You can share a memory from your childhood, ask about their school day, or tell them what your cat did that morning. These little notes help you stay part of each other’s lives.

8. Explore Their Games

Do your grandkids play Minecraft or Roblox? Ask them to give you a tour of their game world! They’ll love showing you around, and you don’t even have to play—just being interested is enough to spark a great conversation.

9. Send Silly Selfies

A grandmother and her granddaughter take a playful selfie using a bear ears and glasses filter. They both smile slightly, enjoying the fun moment while sitting together on a cozy, multicolored couch. — Reddit r/adorableoldpeople

Try using fun camera filters (like ones that give you cat ears or sunglasses) to take goofy selfies and send them to your grandkids. It’s a quick way to make them smile—and they might just send one back!

10. Start a Private YouTube Channel

You can make a simple, private channel just for your family. Post short videos like “Grandma’s Cooking Tips” or “Storytime with Grandpa.” Keep the channel unlisted so only family members can watch. It’s like sending a special video letter!

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Illustration of a smiling grandmother with gray hair in a bun, lovingly hugging her young grandson. They are both wearing blue, and the boy is holding a bouquet of colorful flowers. The background features soft earth tones and leafy accents, creating a warm, cheerful feel.

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