Video Chat for Grandparents
See grandkids without leaving home.
FaceTime — Apple devices
- Built into every iPhone, iPad, Mac.
- Tap green camera icon next to contact.
- Both must have Apple device — no PC.
- Free, no setup required.
- Best quality of all options.
- Works over WiFi or cellular.
Zoom — universal
- Free for 40-minute group calls.
- Works on any device — phone, tablet, computer.
- Mix of Apple + Android + Windows users.
- Up to 100 people on one call.
- Best for family Sunday calls.
- Family member usually hosts.
Google Meet
- Free with Google account.
- Works on any device.
- 1-hour limit on free version.
- Easy invite via email.
- Built into Gmail.
- Good Zoom alternative.
WhatsApp video
- Free if both have WhatsApp.
- Works iPhone + Android.
- International calls free over WiFi.
- Up to 32 people on call.
- Most popular outside US.
- Great for international family.
Tips for grandparent video calls
- Schedule weekly time — Sunday after dinner works.
- Tablet on stand is easier than holding phone.
- Read a book together aloud.
- Show grandkids what you're doing or making.
- Keep calls short with young kids — 15 min max.
- Send pictures/videos between calls.
When tech fails
- Audio only? Internet too slow — close other apps.
- Frozen screen? Hang up + restart call.
- Echo? One person mute when not talking.
- Can't hear? Check volume + speaker icon.
- Camera flipped? Tap camera-flip icon.
- Restart phone if all else fails.
Schedule weekly grandparent time
The best video chat strategy: set a weekly recurring family video call. Sunday afternoons work for many. Use FaceTime if everyone has Apple, Zoom for mixed devices. Read a book to grandkids, ask about their week, share what you're doing. Even 20 minutes weekly maintains connection during seasons when in-person visits aren't possible.