Going to Italy

I'm going to Italy for 10 days and would line to be able to receive texts and use the internet to check my email on my phone while I'm there. My kids wanted me to be able to call or FaceTime while I am away. 
Do I need to purchase an international phone plan? 
Do I need to tell them that I am going away?

Is there an app I should download before I go to video chat with my kids?

or maybe I could use Facebook messenger video?

thank you for your guidance:)