Staying Connected in the COVID Era
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As our nation approaches our 11th month of COVID restrictions, people are looking for creative ways to connect with their friends and family. Even with ongoing vaccinations, the reality for many is a continued period of isolation and sticking to a small “bubble” of personal contacts. If the phone calls, driveway visits, or standard video chat isn’t cutting it anymore, maybe it’s time for a new tradition.
Storytime
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I know many grandparents are deeply saddened about their lack of time with their grandchildren. Keep the bond strong by starting virtual storytime. Choose a new book, a chapter of a book, or even read the same book on each call. This is a great time to share a personal favorite book or incorporate some of your own experiences that relate to the story. You can take this same approach with other activities in addition to (or instead of) reading. Think songs, playing games, or even exercising together. There are no limits to the fun ways that you can strengthen the bond from a distance.
Join the Club
Speaking of reading, what about joining a virtual book club? You can use this time to connect or reconnect with old friends, make new friends, and pass the time. If a book club isn’t your thing, there are a ton of networking groups on social media that you can join. I would venture to say there is a group for every interest. It’s not limited to social media, either. Do you love to cook or bake? Now is the time to join a virtual cooking club. Movie buffs can join Disney+ or Netflix watch parties, stream multi-player video games, or create Spotify playlists collaboratively – the choice is up to you!
Skip the Agenda
Of course, there doesn’t have to be a schedule of activities to help you feel connected. Why not create an informal happy hour or meet-up on Zoom, Google Hangouts, Skype, or a service of your choice? Let the conversation flow organically instead of having group activities.
Go Old-School
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Do you remember getting a letter in the mail? These days, it seems like all I ever get are bills and junk mail. It may be time to bring back the lost art of letter writing. Start correspondence with your children at school, friends, family members, or connect with a new pen pal! Many health departments and schools have implemented these programs for senior citizens and students to combat isolation during quarantine. Search for your local programs, or start your own!
How are you staying in the loop with your loved ones? Let me know in the comments, or send me an email!
Krista Kyte is a personal finance blogger and personal banker with over 18 years of experience in the financial industry. Krista is passionate about helping our members understand their financial situations. She writes tips that will help consumers reach and maintain financial security, and start living the life they’ve always wanted.
