For almost a year now, we have been in the midst of something that we have never experienced before in our lifetimes – a pandemic. We have been thrust into the middle of a lockdown and unable to see our friends and family as we wish. But for some of us with extended family not living close, we’ve persevered. For those looking for creative ways to connect with loved ones, read on for tips to keep in touch during lockdown — or any time.
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Tips to Keep In Touch During Lockdown (or anytime…)
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This has been one of the hardest aspects to accept about the pandemic. Yet, this has also left us wondering just how we can feel connected when we are apart.
But for those with extended families scattered across the globe, we’re used to this family travel complication…but not to this extreme as our travel wings are clipped.
For those still wanting to remain connected (even when miles away), here are our tips to keep in touch with your loved ones during the lockdown.
Send a Care Package or Gift Basket
One great way to check in with your loved ones during lockdown is to send them a care package.
Order one of the so many different care packages available online. Simply log onto an online shop and order all of their favorite things. Some of our favorite premade gift packages are Veteran-Owned Business Manly Man Company and GourmetGiftBaskets.com.
My favorite way to keep in touch during lockdown is to grab an empty box, gather gifts, and start collecting my own curated care package for my loved ones.
My favorite place to start shopping for fun, homemade and creative care packages is the Dollar Store. Yeah, you read that right – Everything Is Just $1 At DollarTree.com! You can add tons of fun yet inexpensive momentos combined with an amazing signature gift that costs a little more.
Add in a photo album or framed picture, as well as a notebook with some personalized notes in there. (Did I mention you can get those at the Dollar Store?)
If your loved one has been stressed recently, why not make up a pamper basket with a face mask and candles? It is a guaranteed way to put a smile on your loved ones face when they need it the most.
Host a Virtual Dinner Party
Going out for dinner, or having dinner with your friends and family is one of the most fun things to do. And just because we are in a lockdown, or your friends and/or family live hundreds of miles away, why should this mean it has to stop?
Instead, arrange a fun virtual dinner party to take part in over Zoom or facetime. Dress up in nice clothes, cook the same menu and chat over video.
Or plan a theme night and dress in the same theme as the originating country of your dish. For example, Mexican themed party ideas, serve salsa and/or toppings in giant margarita glasses. Get all festive with bright colors, banners, and Mexican flag toothpicks to accent food. Grab a sombrero and start dancing.
Prefer a fancier virtual dinner party? Create a black tie (depending on your budget). It is completely up to you!
There are many features online that can show you how to do a virtual dinner party, or you can just make it up as you go along! The most important thing is to have fun!
Schedule Regular Phone Calls or Video Chats
A regular call or video chat keeps family closer together as we all look forward to our weekly “virtual” get together.
Arrange a call at the same time each week with your grandparents. Catch up with them and find out what they have been doing during the week
This is the perfect time to be a caregiver and remind them of anything they might need to do such as an audiology appointment or doctor’s appointment.
Or why not set up a girls’ night with your friends on a Friday?
Whatever you decide, it is a great way to stay in touch and boost each other’s morale when life can feel quite lonely.
These are just a few ways that you can check in with your loved ones during the lockdown. What are some top ways that you have kept in touch with your friends and family when you can’t see them? Let me know in the comments below!