Family connection

Video-call games for grandparents and grandchildren

You wait all week to see your grandchild on screen. Then you ask, “How was school?”, they say “Good”, and the conversation disappears. Nothing has gone wrong. Children often find it easier to talk when there is something small to do together.

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You do not need to entertain a child for an hour or master every button. One simple game and ten relaxed minutes can create a lovely shared moment.

Choose one idea before the call

Pick one game and place any objects beside you. Let the parent know if the child needs paper, pencils or a favourite toy. Keeping it simple removes pressure from everyone.

1. Find something that…

Take turns asking the other person to find something blue, soft, funny or older than they are. Bring it back and tell its story. The movement helps when sitting and talking feels awkward.

2. Draw it together

Choose the same subject—a funny cat, imaginary house or enormous birthday cake. Draw for three minutes and hold up the results. Imperfect pictures often create the best laughter.

3. Would you rather?

Offer two playful choices: fly or become invisible? Beach or forest? Pancakes or pizza? Follow the answer with “Why?” and share your answer too.

4. The memory tray

Show five familiar objects, cover them, and ask which ones are remembered. Swap roles next time. Keep it playful; this is never a test of anyone’s memory.

5. Finish the story

Begin, “When I opened the garden gate, I found…” Each person adds one sentence. Younger children can use a toy as the main character.

6. Family photo detective

Hold up an old photograph. Talk about where it was taken, what happened that day and what everyone wore. It lets family history emerge naturally.

7. Quick show and tell

Each person chooses one nearby object and explains why it matters. It could be a shell, cup, toy or something made at school.

Make it easier: Rest the device on a steady stand, sit with light on your face and reduce background noise. Speak clearly and naturally rather than shouting.

End while it still feels enjoyable

A short happy call is more likely to be repeated than a long tiring one. Finish by choosing next week’s game together.

Keep the connection going

Write down what worked and anything your grandchild mentioned. Remembering a pet, school event or favourite character makes the next call feel immediately personal.