Zoom Thanksgiving Tips

Pick the right tool

• Zoom — works on everything. Free 40-min for groups (or pay $15/mo unlimited).
• FaceTime Group — if everyone iPhone. Up to 32 people. Free.
• Google Meet — free, works in browser. Up to 100 people.
• WhatsApp video — up to 32 people. Best for international family.
• Facebook Messenger Rooms — up to 50, no time limit.

Setup BEFORE the day

1. Schedule meeting + send link a week ahead.
2. Test call WITH grandparents 2 days before.
3. Prop iPad/laptop on counter facing dining room.
4. External speaker for older folks (Echo, Bluetooth speaker).
5. Bring extra phone cable + charger.
6. Wifi password handy if hosting.

Make it joyful

• Set a START + END time. 1-2 hours max.
• Have a HOST who picks who speaks.
• Include the meal — turn camera around for "show your plate".
• Toast over Zoom — funny + meaningful.
• Take screenshots of group call — instant family photo.
• Game ideas: bingo, charades, "share what you're grateful for".

Avoid these problems

• "Mute when not speaking" rule — kills feedback noise.
• Backlit grandparents — face dark. Light should be ON face.
• Bad audio — wired earbuds work better than computer speakers.
• Wifi too weak — use 5GHz wifi if available, OR ethernet.
• Drama over politics — set a "no politics" rule ahead.