Video calling is one of the best things about modern technology — you can see your grandchildren's faces no matter how far away they are. If it seems complicated, don't worry. This guide walks you through it one step at a time.

Which App Should You Use?

The best app to use is whichever one your grandchildren already have on their phone. Ask them first — this makes everything much easier.

  • Your grandchild has an iPhone → Use FaceTime (already on your iPhone/iPad)
  • Mixed — some iPhones, some Android → Use Zoom (works on everything)
  • Everyone has Android → Use Google Meet
  • You don't want to think about it → Get an Amazon Echo Show — just say "Alexa, call [name]"

FaceTime (Best for iPhone & iPad Users)

FaceTime is already on every iPhone and iPad. You don't need to download anything.

1

Find the FaceTime app

Look for a green icon with a white video camera. It's usually on your home screen.

2

Tap the "+" button

You'll see a plus sign (+) in the top right corner. Tap it.

3

Type your grandchild's name or number

Start typing their name. If they're in your contacts, their name will appear. Tap it.

4

Tap "Video"

You'll see two buttons — Audio and Video. Tap Video. Their phone will ring and they can answer.

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Important: FaceTime only works if your grandchildren also have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac. If they have an Android phone, use Zoom instead (below).

Zoom (Works on Every Device)

Zoom works on iPhones, Android phones, tablets, and computers — so it's the easiest choice when the family has a mix of different devices.

1

Download Zoom

Open the App Store (iPhone/iPad) or Google Play Store (Android). Search "Zoom" and install the free app. It's the one with a blue video camera icon.

2

Create a free account

Tap "Sign Up" and use your email address. Or have a family member set this up for you.

3

Ask your grandchild to send you a meeting link

The easiest way to start is to have your grandchild tap "New Meeting" in Zoom and share the link with you by text or email. You just tap the link.

4

Tap "Join with Video"

When you open the link, tap "Join with Video" so they can see your face.

Google Meet (Android Phones)

Google Meet is free and usually already installed on Android phones. Look for a green icon with a white video camera.

1

Open Google Meet

Tap the Google Meet app. If you don't have it, download it free from the Google Play Store.

2

Tap "New Call"

Then search for your grandchild's name from your contacts.

3

Tap the video camera icon

This starts the video call. They'll receive a notification and can join.

Tips for a Better Call

  • Sit facing a window or lamp. Light in front of your face means they can see you clearly.
  • Prop your device up. Holding it gets tiring. Lean it against a book or use a phone stand.
  • Use headphones if the sound echoes or is hard to hear.
  • Say "I'm going to tap the red button now" before hanging up so they're not surprised.

If Something Goes Wrong

"It says no connection" — Make sure your Wi-Fi is on. Go to Settings and check that Wi-Fi shows a checkmark next to your network name.

"They can't hear me" — Check that your volume is turned up using the buttons on the side of your phone. Also make sure you haven't accidentally tapped the mute button in the app (it looks like a microphone with a line through it).

"The picture is blurry or freezing" — Move closer to your Wi-Fi router. A weak signal causes blurry or choppy video.

"I accidentally ended the call" — Just call them back. It happens to everyone.

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Easiest option of all: An Amazon Echo Show lets you video call by just saying "Alexa, call [name]." No tapping, no apps, no passwords. Highly recommended for anyone who finds smartphones frustrating.