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Technology

10 Ways Parents Can Stay Connected with Their College Kids

July 31, 2018

Stay connected with your loved ones away at school with these family-friendly tech tips.

 

By: Sowmya Krishnamurthy

Millions of students are gearing up to go away for college this year. With many students choosing to attend schools far from home, it’s sometimes difficult for families to communicate and stay connected. Luckily, technology and digital tools can help you keep in contact.

Here are 10 ways to stay in touch with your college kids all year long.

1. Start a Family Blog

Blogs are a powerful way for families to stay in touch. “As busy parents, we simply do not have the time to send out cards and letters stuffed with pictures every time we have news to share,” She Knows explains. Like a digital postcard or virtual sticky note, blogging is a quick and easy way to keep each other updated on announcements and milestones, like acing a test or joining a sorority. There are several platforms, including WixMedium and Squarespace that offer easy-to-use templates requiring no programming skills. Need inspiration? Check out these Top 25 Family Blogs from Circle of Moms to get you started.

2. Collaborate on a Spotify Playlist

Music is a unique way to share a mood with loved ones. Streaming service Spotify has a feature called collaborative playlists, in which the whole family can add songs. You can create themed playlists around family functions or holidays, or simply share music that brings back memories of childhood, road trips and inside jokes. Tom’s Guide has an guide on how to start your playlist.

3. Listen to the Same Podcast

NPR One connects you to a stream of public radio podcasts that the family can listen to together — from anywhere! Using your Contour voice remote, launch the app by saying “NPR,” “NPR One,” “NPR app,” “Launch NPR app,” or “National Public Radio.” You can also access NPR One in the “Apps” section of the Contour guide. We’ve put together a list of our favorite NPR One podcasts, including Snap Judgment and This American Life that offer great entertainment and opportunities for conversation afterwards.

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