Being an Overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) is tough, especially when it means being away from your kids. Video calls are great, but they can sometimes feel a bit… well, just there. This article is all about making your time connecting with your children richer and more meaningful, going beyond the usual “How was your day?” and turning it into a real shared experience. We have a bunch of fun activities and simple ideas that can help you stay close, even when you’re miles apart. Let’s find ways to make those moments count!
Story Time Adventures Together
Reading together is a fantastic way to connect and build a bond. Start by choosing a book that both you and your child will enjoy. There are plenty of online libraries and apps that offer digital children’s books. Websites like Storyline Online feature famous actors reading children’s books aloud, with engaging visuals. You can take turns reading pages, changing your voice for different characters, and asking questions about the story. “What do you think the bear will do next?” or “How would you feel if that happened to you?” These questions encourage your child to think critically and share their feelings. Another great idea is to create your own stories! Start with a sentence and have your child add the next sentence, building a collaborative tale together. This simple activity sparks imagination and leads to hilarious (and heartwarming) moments.
Learning New Skills Together, Virtually
Learning doesn’t have to be a chore! Find a new skill you can learn together, even from afar. Websites like Khan Academy offer free courses on a wide variety of subjects, from math and science to art and history. You could even learn a new language together using Duolingo! Imagine the fun of practicing basic phrases with your child and then using them if you ever get to visit each other. Another idea is to learn a simple craft, like origami or knitting. Many online tutorials on YouTube provide step-by-step instructions. Sharing these learning experiences creates a sense of accomplishment and shows your child that you value education and lifelong learning.
Virtual Tours and Adventures
Explore the world without leaving your homes! Many museums and zoos offer virtual tours that you and your child can enjoy together. The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History provides interactive tours that let you explore exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and more. You can ask your child what they’re most interested in seeing and then research together beforehand. During the tour, take turns pointing out interesting details and asking questions. “What do you think it would have been like to live during that time?” Or, watch documentaries together on topics that interest your child, such as animals, space, or history. Afterward, discuss what you learned and encourage your child to draw or write about their favorite parts. This is a fun and educational way to broaden your horizons and share new experiences.
Games and Laughter Across the Miles
Don’t underestimate the power of play! There are many online games that you can play with your child, some of which don’t even need a computer. Play charades via video call! Act out different animals, objects, or people and have your child guess what you are. Or, play “I Spy” by describing something you see in your environment. “I spy something blue.” You can also play online board games like chess, checkers, or Scrabble using websites and apps designed for remote play. The important thing is to choose games that are age-appropriate and that you both enjoy. Laughter is a great way to relieve stress and strengthen your bond with your child. Even simple games can create lasting memories and make your time together more meaningful.
Cooking and Baking Together – Virtually!
Even if you’re miles apart, you can still cook together! Choose a simple recipe that your child can easily follow, like cookies, pizza, or pasta. Beforehand, send your child the recipe and make sure they have all the necessary ingredients and equipment. Then, set up a video call and guide them through the steps. You can explain each step clearly and answer any questions they have. “Now, carefully crack the egg into the bowl.” Tell them about the science of cooking – why certain ingredients work together. It’s okay if things get a little messy! Embrace the chaos and focus on having fun. Once the food is ready, you can both enjoy your creations together, even if it’s just virtually. This is a great way to teach your child valuable life skills and create a shared experience that you can both cherish. Consider making a family recipe that has been passed down through generations. This adds a special connection to your heritage and family history.
Helping with Homework (and Making it Fun!)
Being an OFW doesn’t mean you can’t help with homework! Set up a regular time to review assignments with your child and offer support. You can use video call to see the whiteboard or the book directly. The key is to be patient and encouraging. Instead of just giving answers, try to guide your child through the problem-solving process. “Show me what you’ve tried already.” If your child is struggling with a particular subject, consider using online resources like Khan Academy or YouTube tutorials to explain the concepts in a different way. You can also make learning more fun by turning it into a game. For example, if your child is learning vocabulary, you could play a word association game or create flashcards. Remember, your role is to be a supportive guide, not a replacement for their teacher. By helping with homework, you show your child that you care about their education and are invested in their future.
Celebrating Special Occasions Together
Birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions can be especially tough when you’re away from your family. But there are still many ways to celebrate together, even remotely. Plan a virtual party with your child and other family members. Use video calls to sing “Happy Birthday,” open presents, and share stories. Send a special gift beforehand so your child has something to open during the party. For holidays like Christmas or Easter, try to coordinate activities that you can do together, such as decorating the house, baking cookies, or watching a festive movie. You can also create personalized cards or videos for your child expressing your love and appreciation. The important thing is to make your child feel loved and remembered, even when you can’t be there in person. Consider sending a care package filled with their favorite treats or small gifts that remind them of you.
Creating Rituals and Routines
Establishing regular rituals and routines can help your child feel connected to you, even when you’re not physically present. Set up a consistent time for video calls each week, so your child knows when to expect to hear from you. During these calls, make sure to actively listen to what your child has to say and show genuine interest in their life. Talk about their friends, their hobbies, and their dreams. “What was the best part of your day today?” You can also create bedtime routines, such as reading a story or singing a song together via video call. A consistent bedtime routine can bring comfort and familiarity. Even simple things, like saying “goodnight” every night or sending a quick text message in the morning, can make a big difference. By creating these rituals and routines, you provide your child with a sense of stability and security, which is especially important when you’re away. You can even start a shared journal, where you both write about your daily experiences and send it to each other periodically. This is a great way to stay connected and share your thoughts and feelings.
Staying Connected with the Extended Family
It’s important for children of OFWs to maintain strong connections with their extended family members, especially grandparents, aunts, and uncles. Not only can they serve as additional support systems for your child, but they can also reinforce cultural values and traditions. Encourage your child to communicate with their relatives regularly via phone calls, video calls, or text messages. Perhaps, schedule a weekly video call where your child can chat with their grandparents and share stories about their day. Create opportunities for your child to learn about their family history and heritage. Ask relatives to share stories about their childhoods, family traditions, and cultural practices. You can even create a family tree together. When you are able to visit, prioritize spending quality time with your child and their extended family members. Arrange activities that allow everyone to bond and create lasting memories. Maintaining these connections can help your child feel loved, supported, and connected to their roots, even when you are away. Don’t forget the power of sending handwritten letters or postcards to your child. It’s a tangible reminder of your love and care, and something they can cherish for years to come.
Making the Most of Visits Home
When you finally get to visit home, make the most of it! Plan activities that you and your child will enjoy together, such as going to the beach, visiting a theme park, or exploring new places. Focus on creating quality time and making lasting memories. It’s tempting to try and cram in everything, but prioritize spending one-on-one time with your child. Put down your phone and truly be present in the moment. Listen to their stories, play their favorite games, and simply enjoy each other’s company. Take lots of pictures and videos to capture these special moments. You can also create a scrapbook or photo album together, which you can both revisit when you’re apart. Involve your child in the planning process and let them choose some of the activities. This will make them feel valued and excited about your visit. Remember, it’s not about the quantity of time you spend together, but the quality of the experience. Make every moment count and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Supporting Your Child’s Dreams and Interests
Being an OFW means working hard to provide for your family’s future. Part of that is supporting your child’s dreams and interests. Encourage them to pursue their passions, whether it’s sports, music, art, or academics. Attend their school events and extracurricular activities, even if it means attending virtually. Show genuine interest in their hobbies and talents. “Tell me more about your basketball team.” Provide them with the resources and support they need to excel. This might include paying for lessons, buying equipment, or simply providing encouragement and motivation. If your child has a particular goal in mind, help them create a plan to achieve it. Celebrate their successes, big and small. By supporting your child’s dreams and interests, you show them that you believe in them and that you are invested in their future. You can also teach them about financial planning and saving for their future goals. This is a valuable life skill that will benefit them for years to come.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions related to OFWs and maintaining strong relationships with their children remotely:
How can I deal with my child’s resentment or anger about me being away?
Acknowledge their feelings and let them know it’s okay to feel sad or angry. Listen to their concerns without judgment. Explain why you are working abroad in a way they can understand, focusing on how it benefits the family. Prioritize quality time during video calls and visits home. Involve them in planning activities when you are home. Seek support from family members who are present in their lives to help them process their emotions. Most importantly, consistently reassure them of your love and commitment.
What if my child doesn’t want to talk on video calls?
Don’t force it. Instead, try different approaches to engage them. Offer to play a game, read a story, or watch a short video together. Ask open-ended questions about their day, but avoid pressuring them for answers. Respect their boundaries and let them know you are available when they are ready to talk. It might be that texting and exchanging pictures might be preferred over video calls sometimes. Let them share their thoughts and feelings at their own pace.
How can I stay involved in my child’s school activities when I’m abroad?
Communicate regularly with their teachers to stay updated on their progress. Ask if you can attend parent-teacher conferences via video call. Offer to help with school projects or assignments remotely. Encourage your child to share their schoolwork and achievements with you. Find out if the school has a website or online platform where you can access information about events and activities. Make sure your child knows that you are interested and invested in their education.
How do I handle discipline from a distance?
Establish clear rules and expectations with your child and communicate them clearly. Work with the caregiver to ensure consistent discipline methods are used. When addressing misbehavior, focus on understanding the root cause and finding solutions together. Avoid yelling or using harsh language during video calls. Emphasize the importance of making good choices and taking responsibility for their actions. Always end the conversation with reassurance of your love and support.
How can I make sure my child understands the sacrifices I’m making as an OFW?
Explain to your child in age-appropriate terms why you are working abroad and how it benefits the family. Share stories about your work and the challenges you face. Show them pictures or videos of your work environment. Encourage them to appreciate the sacrifices you are making, but avoid making them feel guilty or responsible for your decisions. Emphasize that your love for them is the reason you are working hard. Always remember to focus on the positives of the situation. Instead of talking about what they DON’T have, speak more about what they DO have.
References
Storyline Online
Khan Academy
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Ready to take action? Don’t let distance be a barrier to a strong and loving relationship with your children. Choose one or two activities from this list and start implementing them today! Get creative, be present, and show your kids how much you care. They deserve it, and so do you. Let’s bridge those miles and build stronger connections, one fun activity at a time!
