The festive season is a wonderful time of year; the decorations are out, there’s excitement in the air, new memories are made and quality time is spent with friends and family over food and fun. Staying in touch with loved-ones is important at this time of the year, however with the current COVID-19 restrictions in place, it can be challenging when loved-ones are further away than we’d like. While this may be the situation for many of us, it doesn’t mean we have to be alone. With the technology we now have available in mind, we’ve come up with a few ways you can feel connected, no matter where you are in the world, and celebrate this time of year with your nearest and dearest.
Use ZOOM or Facetime for special events
You don’t need to feel separated from family and friends with the help of your phone or laptop. When it comes to family lunch, Christmas dinner or putting up your Christmas tree, set up your phone or laptop and ZOOM or Facetime in with your family members so you’re all together. Pull up a chair, start a conversation and let the laughter begin. Make sure to schedule a date and time so everyone is ready with a meal and glass of your favourite tipple to celebrate the special occasion. Together thanks to technology.
Host a Cook-along
December is the wonderful time of year to get baking. We spend more time in the kitchen this month than any other trialling sweet new treats, cookies and cakes. Why not add some extra company in the kitchen and set up a cooking class with your ones far away? Schedule in a time or day that suits, pick a recipe everyone can make (cue festive theme or family favourites), plan a shopping list and then Zoom in and begin baking! A social event with a delicious outcome, whether you gift these creations or take them to your next social event, is a wholesome event made better with love and connection.
Send gifts or cards and open them virtually
It’s the thought that counts, and that’s well and truly the festive focus this year. Why not spend some time creating small meaningful gifts or handwritten cards to be sent to your loved-ones that they can treasure forever? A handwritten card with a kind Christmas message will go a long way in helping your closest ones feel loved and valued. To make it more personal, schedule in a call where you can both open your gifts or read your cards together.
Virtual movies or TV
If one of your holiday traditions is getting comfy around the TV to watch a favourite Christmas classic, there’s no reason to forfeit it this year. Teleparty is a Netflix app which lets you schedule a movie or favourite program and invite others to join in for a virtual watch party. You can leave running commentary with the in-app feature, while being able to watch your favourite film together! Plan your favourite snacks, get cosy and sit back with your friends and family no matter where you are.
Volunteer as a family
If there’s a few family members you can spend time with, give back to the community together. At time of year there’s numerous charities to get involved with, whether it’s shopping for kids presents to donate, participating in a Christmas soup kitchen or volunteering at a shelter or hospice, spread the love and festive cheer to those around you. An easy way to see how you can help is to look up volunteer opportunities in your community or see if your favourite charity is looking for help. Grow closer as a family, while helping those in need.
Plan for the future
While this can be a challenging time of year to stay motivated, especially if you’re separated from your loved-ones, keep hope in the air by finding an activity the whole family can enjoy together. Something as simple as booking a lunch at your favourite restaurant, a small getaway or a group activity, means you’ll have something to look forward to in the future.
Create new, exciting memories this festive season by trying out these activities, and even though you’re not physically together, we promise you’ll be closer than ever.
