Navigating Quarantine: Effective Communication with Family

We live in the 21st century, where technology has revolutionized how we communicate. With the ongoing pandemic, family and friends around the world are finding innovative ways to maintain their connections. This article explores how families are using various digital tools to stay connected during these challenging times.

Phone and Social Media for Family Communication

For many, the go-to means of staying in touch with their loved ones is through platforms such as WhatsApp. This messaging app allows for both text and video calls, making it a versatile tool for daily communication. It’s especially useful for large families spread across different countries. For instance, my family has created a large family-wide WhatsApp chat group that includes my youngest brother in Japan. This group has become a forum for planning activities and discussions about how we can enjoy our favorite board games virtually.

During the Easter holidays, we planned a virtual “family meal” via Skype. As our traditional annual beach gathering cannot take place this year due to travel restrictions, we decided to simulate the communal experience by ordering pizza from local restaurants and organizing a video call to share the meal together. It’s a small but meaningful way for us to feel connected and not isolated during the quarantine period.

Video Calls and Email as Supplementary Tools

While messaging apps like WhatsApp and social media platforms such as Skype are incredibly useful, they are complemented by traditional communication methods like phone calls, video calls, and emails. Phone calls are particularly powerful for spontaneous, in-depth conversations, while video calls offer a more personal touch and help people see each other’s expressions, a feature that’s missing in text-based communication.

Emails, though less immediate, are sometimes used for more formal or detailed discussions. Sharing documents, arranging meetings, or coordinating schedules can be easily done through emails, providing a platform for more structured communication. In the digital era, combining the best elements of both traditional and modern communication methods ensures that the family bond remains strong despite physical distance.

Strategies for Effective Virtual Family Gatherings

To make virtual family gatherings as enjoyable and enriching as possible, it’s important to plan ahead. Consider the following strategies:

Create a Family Calendar: Use tools like Google Calendar to schedule regular family calls, game nights, or meal times. This helps everyone stay organized and committed to the virtual gathering. Select Appropriate Games: There are many board games now available with electronic equivalents that work well over video calls. Try to find games that can be enjoyed by a wide age range. Use Video for Intimate Moments: For more personal, intimate conversations, consider using video calls. They can help reduce feelings of isolation and bring the family closer. Share Screens: Share live streaming of hobbies, cooking, or hobbies to maintain a sense of shared activity. Send Care Packages: While technology keeps us connected, sending physical gifts like care packages can make a big impact on morale and strengthen family bonds.

Conclusion: In these unprecedented times, technology has become a saving grace, allowing us to maintain our connections with family and friends despite physical barriers. By leveraging the best of modern communication tools and planning ahead, we can ensure that the quarantine period does not diminish our family relationships.