Intergenerational Connections: Using Tech to Bridge the Gap
by
PSN Team 
Print This Article
Intergenerational Connections
In a 2010 study from The Netherlands found that simply planning and anticipating a vacation gives a longer lasting boost in happiness, more so than the after effects of the vacation itself. So it is good for us to spend time anticipating less structure, outdoor activities and visits with extended family. This change in routine can also mean more contact and interaction with grandparents. We know that many grandparents are routinely involved in our children’s lives and many even become primary caregivers for their grandchildren.
However, when it comes to technology, we have experienced the (sometimes) grouchy comments from grandparents that go something like this: “That kid always has nose in that thing” or “I don’t even know why I try to talk to him.” These comments can be hurtful, especially when we know that mobile devices can serve an important role for many children with disabilities, such as for communication or behavior prompts. One approach to these comments is to invite grandparents to share in their grandchildren’s world using technology.
Generations have a lot to learn from each other, and we are sharing some ways we have found that technology can be a fun way to connect the generations. As we have always advocated at BridgingApps, technology is simply a tool, but a powerful tool that can be harnessed to practice shared enjoyment and engagement with another person. We have found that devices can serve as a remarkable bridge to connect the generations. We offer some ideas for how mobile devices can bring old(er) and young together.
Apps to Use Together
Swim by American Red Cross
By American Red Cross
Swim by American Red Cross is an excellent app for grandparents to use this summer when spending time with their grandchildren.This is a free mobile device app to promote water safety for parents and caregivers of individuals learning how to swim. Includes simple steps, illustrations and descriptive instructions users can take to ensure the safety of non-swimmers, new swimmers and even experienced swimmers in a variety of environments.
Price: FREE
Available for: iOS
Available for: Android
Available for: Kindle
Read Full BridgingApps Review
ZOOM Cloud Meetings
By Zoom
ZOOM Cloud Meetings is a user-friendly video meeting website and app that is FREE! Using the basic (free) account, users can host an unlimited number of meetings that last up to 40 minutes. Subscription options for longer meetings range from $14.99- $19.99 per month.
Price: FREE
Available for iOS
Available for Android
Read Full BridgingApps Review
Google Duo
By Google LLC
Google Duo allows video communication with friends and family whether they are in your backyard or miles away with voice and video calls. Now making it easier than ever to connect Android devices and iOS (Apple) devices.
Price: FREE
Available for iOS
Available for Android
Read Full BridgingApps Review
WhatsApp Messenger
WhatsApp LLC
WhatsApp from Meta is a FREE messaging and video calling app. It’s used by over 2 Billion people in more than 180 countries. It’s simple, reliable, and private, so you can easily keep in touch with your friends and family. WhatsApp works across mobile and desktop even on slow connections, with no subscription fees*.
Price: FREE
Available for: iOS
Available for: Android
Fairlady Media
Also, be sure to check out Fairlady Media apps featuring lovable and fun Grandma and Grandpa characters that provide mentoring, guidance, and support as they learn and practice new skills and concepts.
Available for: iOS
If you are interested in searching for more apps, creating your own list of apps and sharing them, please go to BridgingApps.org. BridgingApps, a program of Easter Seals Greater Houston, is a community of parents, therapists, doctors and teachers who share information about using mobile devices with people who have special needs.
Cristen Reat is co-founder of BridgingApps and a mother who found success when using a mobile device with her children who have special needs.
Amy Barry is the Content Manager and Editor at BridgingApps and mother of five children.
You May Also Like
How to be Fabulous Grandparents to a Child with Special Needs
5 Books to Help Celebrate Grandparents Day
Elder Care Decisions Checklist Download
The Sandwich Generation: How To Handle it All, and Then Some!
How to Manage it All When You Are in the Sandwich Generation
This post originally appeared on our May/June 2016 Magazine
