How do we share a book with grandparents over a video call?

Choose a workable setup

Research context: The National Center for Education Statistics reported that 85% of children ages 3–5 were read to by a family member at least three times in the surveyed week in 2019. Source: NCES: Early literacy activities.

A book both households own can make following easier, but it is not required. If one person will show the pages to the camera, test the angle and lighting before the call. Keep private household details out of the background where practical. Use the communication service through the family’s ordinary approved accounts, and do not post a recording publicly without considering the rights and permissions involved. The task is a family conversation around a book, not producing a polished online performance.

Keep participation easy

Explain whether the caller will read straight through or pause for pictures and comments. Give the child a comfortable place to sit and permission to move away when they are finished. Avoid repeatedly asking them to look at the camera or demonstrate that they remember the story. The grandparent can ask one small question or follow the child’s observation. If sound or connection quality makes the reading frustrating, switch to a short conversation rather than spending the whole visit troubleshooting.

End with a clear next invitation

Choose a natural stopping point and save the place if everyone wants to continue another day. Do not promise a daily schedule unless the adults can maintain it. Ask the caller what made showing the book easy or awkward, and simplify the next setup. PARE’s editorial advice about family video calls does not imply that its paired apps provide this calling function. Use the communication tool your family has separately reviewed and arranged.