In this day and age it is not unusual to find families living far away from each other. It can be a challenge to all or some members of the family, however with a little thought it does not have to mean the breakdown of family ties. One of the most important bonds in a child’s life can be that with a grandparent. This bond is often particularly defined by the time spent caring and sharing. Perhaps something that isn’t so obviously on tap, in a long distance relationship, but you don’t have to live around the corner to nurture the grandparent/grandchild connection.

If you are the grandparent who has a child living abroad, or perhaps you are the one who has flown to a sunnier climate for your retirement, there are several things you could do to help you become a real part of your grandchild’s life

Tips for keeping in touch with your grandchildren:

• Record yourself reading a bedtime story once a week and either send it or email a link.
• Send them little postcards telling them what you have been doing. Children love letters.
• Create your own special family website where you can post photographs, drawings and messages to each other.
• Set up Skype or MSN so you can chat to each other regularly whilst seeing each other.
• Play hide and seek. Have the parent hide the treats and send your grandchild clues via email, phone or by letter.