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University tips for parents - staying in touch
Nowadays, distance is not a barrier to communication. The only barrier you may encounter is time, where differing time zones may make it slightly more difficult to arrange a suitable time to talk.
Email is the simplest and most widely used form of communication. If you do not have your own email address and are not familiar with how this works, ask your son or daughter to set up an account for you before they head off. Email is instant and free no matter where in the world you both are. All you need is an internet connection – if you don’t have one at home, then don’t worry. You will be hard pushed to find a city without an internet café.
Telephone
Obviously, you will want to also speak from time to time on the phone. There are now many companies that offer cheap international calls – you just have to dial through their network first, and can often be charged as little as a local rate call for phoning the other side of the world. If this is not the case for their destination, international calling cards are sure to lower the cost.
Mobile phones
Mobiles now operate in any corner of the globe – but check – because this may be more expensive when it comes to international calls. However, it is always worth checking with your service provider if they offer an international calling discount package. Text messaging is also instant and a good form of brief communication wherever they may be.
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