BRIDGE THE GENERATION GAP WITH SOCIAL MEDIA

Greetings Grandparents!

 In today's digital age, social media has become an integral part of our lives, connecting people from all walks of life. While it may seem like a platform primarily for the younger generation, we seniors can also benefit greatly from using social media. Not only does it provide us with a means to stay connected with friends and family, but it also offers a unique opportunity to bridge the generation gap and reach out to our grandkids.

 Are you wondering how you can stay connected with your grandkids on social media?

 First, one of the main ways is sharing moments and memories. Take advantage of Facebook and Instagram to post pictures and updates about your daily routine, travels, maybe even photos from the past. Grandkids love to see their parents photos as they were growing up.  And hearing the trials and tribulations they inflicted on you!

 The I-phone and Android phones today have photo and video capability.  And if you have the social media apps on your phone, they are easy to upload.  If you happen to be of the age and your photos of your kids are on the old fashioned glossy paper in an album, simply use your phone to retake the photo and upload. Just remember, if it is in an album, take it out of the sleeve and if it is Glossy, make sure the light is even with no reflection.

 Do you have a hobby or a skill?  Post pictures of your handiwork, record videos of your special talents,. In fact do it start to finish in small tidbits and gain their interest. Do not forget to  start a hashtag to follow your progress!  To gain interest, warn the grandkids:

               For example,  Grandkids, let's turn our hobby or skill into fun! 

1. Take a picture of yourself enjoying your hobby or skill (make sure it's something cool and visually appealing).

2. Create a post in a witty way about your hobby or skill.

3. Share the post on your social media accounts and tag me so I can follow you.

 Social Media like Facebook also feature Group Chats.  I know during Covid –that nasty time—we scheduled weekly family chats on Instant Messenger.   The Wardens –also known as my children,  just wanted to make sure we were alive, I think.  We also downloaded ZOOM, which you get for free for a limited amount of minutes.

One of the favorites of the kids are apps that create memes.  They can be very funny.  For example, there is a feature on Instagram that you can switch faces. So my daughter put her face on mine.  Imagine her chagrin when our faces looked identical.  Yep, this is what you will look like in 40 years.

Finally there are virtual family game nights.  Play games with your family from anywhere! Jack Box is one of many apps—like Yahtzee, Mario Kart and More,  that lets you access various games on your phone and play with your family, even when you're apart.

Are YOU ready to harness the power of social media and stay connected to your grandkids?