Teaching a child to demonstrate caring behaviors to loved ones far away is a lot easier today than it was years ago.
A big brother away at college, a grandma or grandpa who lives in another state, a relative serving in the armed forces overseas are all people who look forward to hearing from a child and are disappointed when they don’t hear. Children need to be encouraged to stay in touch with those who love them.
Here are some ways that make it easier to stay in touch:
- Skype enables a child to see and speak to a loved one via the computer when both parties have a webcam and this free software program.
- E-mail enables a young child to send brief messages. When special holidays come around, a child can send a free card using programs such as Hallmark or Blue Mountain
- Telephone calls, when possible, are also a good way to keep in touch
- There is always the tried and true…send a hand made drawing or card in the mail.
A fun activity to foster caring for those far away is to make a “Caring Calendar” and hang it in the kitchen.
At the beginning of each a month, a child can circle dates for hello calls and holidays, birthdays or special events for each person that he or she wants wants to remember in a special way. When everyone has Skype they can see one another, which makes it a special visit!
