Chicken Keeping With Kids

Raising backyard chickens can be more than just a way to enjoy fresh eggs; it can also be a fantastic family activity that brings everyone closer together. Getting your kids involved in keeping chickens not only teaches them responsibility and care for animals but also turns daily chores into fun, educational moments. Here’s how to make chicken keeping an engaging family project and a meaningful experience for your children.

Why Involve Kids in Chicken Keeping?

Involving kids in raising chickens can be a valuable experience for them. It teaches them important life skills such as responsibility, empathy, and an understanding of where their food comes from. Plus, it provides a hands-on opportunity for learning about biology, animal behavior, and even basic farming techniques.

Choosing the Right Breed for the Family

The first step in making chicken keeping a family affair is selecting the right breed. Some breeds are better suited for families with kids due to their friendly and docile nature. Here are a few options to consider:

• Silkie:With their fluffy feathers and gentle temperament, Silkies are great for kids. Their friendly demeanor and unique appearance make them a hit with younger family members.
• Australorp:Known for their calm nature and excellent egg-laying abilities, Australorps are a reliable choice for families. They are hardy and adaptable, making them suitable for Australia’s hot climate.
• ISA Brown: Ideal for families looking for a steady supply of eggs, ISA Browns are easy to handle and have a gentle disposition, perfect for children to interact with.

Before heading out to find chickens for sale in your local area, involve the kids in the decision-making process. Let them help research and choose the breeds that best fit your family’s needs and preferences. This involvement helps them feel a sense of ownership and excitement about their new pets. When you’re ready, you can find chickens for sale in Brisbane at any of our stores.

Setting Up the Coop as a Family Project

Building and setting up the chicken coop can be a fun and educational project for the whole family. Here’s how to get the kids involved:

• Design and Build:If you’re building your own coop, let the kids participate in the design and construction process. They can help with painting, decorating, or assembling parts of the coop. This hands-on involvement makes the project more engaging and teaches them basic DIY skills.
• Decorate the Coop: Turn the coop into a fun family art project. Let the kids decorate it with their own designs or paint it in bright colors. This creative activity adds a personal touch and makes the coop a special place for the chickens.
• Organise the Space: Involve the kids in organising the interior of the coop. They can help set up nesting boxes, arrange bedding, and even create a “chicken playground” with perches and toys.

Daily Care and Routine

Daily care is where kids can really get hands-on with their new feathered friends. Here’s how to make chicken care a fun family activity:

• Feeding and Watering:Assign age-appropriate chores like feeding the chickens and refilling their water. Younger children can help with pouring feed or carrying water, while older kids can take on tasks like checking the feed levels or cleaning the water containers. 
• Collecting Eggs:Make egg collecting a daily ritual. Children love the excitement of finding fresh eggs, and it’s a great way to teach them about egg production and handling. Encourage them to gently collect eggs and handle them with care.
• Health Check-ups:Teach the kids how to observe the chickens for signs of health issues and treating them. Show them how to check for clean feathers, healthy behavior, and good overall condition. This not only involves them in the care process but also helps them learn about animal health.

Educational Opportunities

Raising chickens provides numerous learning opportunities that can be both fun and educational:

• Life Cycle of Chickens:Use the opportunity to teach kids about the life cycle of chickens. From hatching eggs to growing into adult hens, explain each stage and how it contributes to the chicken’s life.
• Basic Biology:Teach your children about chicken anatomy and physiology in an age-appropriate way. Discuss how chickens digest food, lay eggs, and what they need to stay healthy.
• Environmental Science: Explain how chickens contribute to the ecosystem. Discuss topics like composting, how chickens can help in the garden, and the importance of a clean living environment.

Family Bonding and Fun

Involving kids in chicken keeping strengthens family bonds and creates lasting memories. It’s an activity that encourages teamwork, fosters communication, and provides plenty of opportunities for laughter and learning. Here are some ideas for making chicken keeping even more enjoyable:

• Chicken-Themed Crafts: Engage in chicken-themed crafts or projects, like making homemade toys for the chickens or creating a scrapbook of the family’s chicken-keeping journey.
• Host a Chicken Party: Celebrate milestones like the first egg or the completion of the coop with a small family party. Decorate with chicken-themed decorations and enjoy a meal together.
• Storytelling and Games:Create fun stories or games related to your chickens. Kids can make up adventures for their feathered friends or role-play as chicken caretakers.

Getting Your Chickens

When you're ready to get your chickens, make sure to find a reliable source. We have a great selection of chickens for sale in Brisbane including Bantams, Wyondotte, Silkies, Plymouth Rock, Langsham, Hamburg, New Hampshire Red and Rhode Island Red. Check your local store to find out what’s available now.

Whether you're an urban farmer, a backyard enthusiast, or someone looking to add feathered companions to your family, we offer a diverse selection of healthy and well-cared-for chickens to suit your needs.

Why Choose Brookies:

• Quality Breeds:We pride ourselves on offering a variety of quality chicken breeds that are known for their hardiness, egg production, and suitability to Brisbane's climate.
• Healthy Stock:Our chickens are raised in a clean and nurturing environment, ensuring their well-being and providing you with vibrant, healthy birds.
• Expert Advice:Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you in choosing the right breed, providing tips on care, feeding, and creating a comfortable coop environment.

Our Chicken Selection:

Explore our wide range of chicken breeds, each with unique characteristics and benefits. Whether you're interested in prolific egg layers, attractive ornamental breeds, or dual-purpose chickens, we have something to meet your preferences.

The Joy of Family Chicken Keeping

Raising backyard chickens can become a cherished family activity that brings everyone together. By involving kids in every step of the process—from choosing the breeds to daily care—you create a shared experience that teaches valuable lessons and builds lasting memories. So gather your family, get ready to welcome your new feathered friends, and enjoy the rewarding journey of chicken keeping together!