Raising backyard chickens is a rewarding experience for adults and a fantastic opportunity for children to learn valuable life skills while having fun. Choosing suitable chicken breeds for families with kids can make the journey even more enjoyable. In this article, we’ll explore some child-friendly chicken breeds, breeds that enjoy–or at least tolerate–being held and carried often, and those that lay eggs in a variety of colors. We’ll also delve into why larger breeds are often better suited for children, the joys of raising chickens with kids, the valuable lessons they can learn, and tips for acclimating chickens to positive interactions with children.
Chickens That Do It All
When it comes to dual-purpose breeds that shine in both the egg-laying and meat departments, few can compare to the friendly Rhode Island Red and the classic Barred Plymouth Rock.
These versatile breeds have been cherished by chicken enthusiasts for generations and are well-known for their exceptional qualities that make them perfect additions to family flocks.
Rhode Island Red
A reliable layer and gentle companion, the Rhode Island Red, with its vibrant chestnut-red feathers and confident demeanor, is a favorite among backyard chicken farmers seeking a reliable egg producer. These hens are egg-laying powerhouses, consistently providing large, brown eggs.
Families with children will appreciate the Rhode Island Red’s easy-going nature, as they are known for their calm and friendly disposition. These birds are often gentle and enjoy human interaction, making them excellent companions for kids who love to spend time in the coop. Children can take delight in collecting the eggs laid by their feathered friends, fostering a sense of accomplishment and responsibility in your young farmer.
Barred Plymouth Rock
The timeless beauty with bountiful eggs, the Barred Plymouth Rock, adorned with its striking black-and-white-striped feathers, is a breed that embodies both beauty and utility. Besides being an attractive addition to any backyard flock, these birds are prolific layers of large, brown eggs.
Their consistent egg production ensures a steady supply of nutritious eggs for family breakfasts and baking endeavors.
Like the Rhode Island Reds, Barred Plymouth Rocks possess a calm and gentle temperament, making them easy for children to handle and interact with. Their approachable nature allows kids to engage in chicken care activities confidently.
From Farm to Table: The Dual Purpose Advantage
In addition to their egg-laying prowess, both the Rhode Island Red and the Barred Plymouth Rock possess the valuable attribute of being dual-purpose breeds. This means they are well-suited for providing both a consistent supply of eggs and high-quality meat.
While families may primarily focus on egg production, the option to utilize surplus roosters for meat ensures a self-sustaining and ethical approach to poultry keeping. Engaging children in conversations about the responsible use of resources and the concept of farm-to-table sustainability promotes valuable lessons in conscious living and resource management.
Clucky Companions
If your children dream of cuddling with their feathered friends while reading a book or tucking a buddy under their arm as they explore the backyard, look no further than the Silkie and the Buff Orpington.
These endearing breeds capture hearts with their charming appearances and melt the hearts of children with their affectionate and docile personalities. Silkie chickens and Buff Orpingtons are the perfect choices for kids who crave a close and interactive relationship with their backyard pets.
Silkie Chickens
Fluffy companions with gentle spirits, Silkie chickens are undeniably one of the most enchanting and distinctive breeds in the chicken world. Their soft and smooth plumage resembles that of a living, breathing stuffed animal, and children are often captivated by their cloud-like appearance. Silkie chickens come in various colors, including white, black, blue, and buff, but it’s their personalities that set them apart.
These feathered fluff balls are gentle and docile, making them excellent lap chickens to cuddle and care for. Silkies are known for their affectionate behavior and enjoy being held and petted. Their friendly disposition extends to their interactions with other flock members, as they are generally peace-loving and non-aggressive. This makes integrating Silkies into a mixed flock a smooth process.
As part of their unique charm, Silkie chickens are also exceptional broody hens. They have an instinct to sit on eggs and care for chicks, which can be a learning experience for children to observe.
Buff Orpington
Buff Orpington chickens are renowned for their striking golden feathers and amiable temperament, earning them the reputation of being the “Golden Feathered Sweethearts.” These affectionate birds have a calm and friendly disposition.
Children who love snuggling up with their feathered pals will enjoy spending time with Buff Orpingtons. Their gentle and docile nature makes them a pleasure to handle and pet, encouraging kids to form strong bonds with their chicken companions. The Buff Orpington’s large and soft body makes it an inviting cuddle buddy, and its willingness to be held provides a sense of comfort and companionship to young chicken enthusiasts.
Beyond their cuddle-worthy qualities, Buff Orpingtons are fantastic layers of large, brown eggs. Families can enjoy the benefits of a bountiful egg supply with these ladies.
A World of Lessons
Welcoming Silkies and Buff Orpingtons into the family flock offers children more than just adorable and huggable pets. It presents an opportunity for kids to learn valuable life lessons about empathy, responsibility, and nurturing. Caring for these gentle creatures teaches children the importance of providing love and attention to their animal friends, fostering compassion and empathy.
Raising and handling Silkies and Buff Orpingtons also nurtures a sense of responsibility as they take on age-appropriate chicken care tasks. Feeding, watering, and observing the needs of their feathered pals become routine and rewarding activities that instill discipline and a sense of duty.
Eggs of Many Colors
For an egg-citing and educational experience, consider the Easter Egger chicken.
As their name suggests, these captivating birds are a real treat when it comes to egg colors, making the daily egg hunt a delightful surprise for children and adults alike. Easter Eggers lay eggs of various colors, ranging from beautiful shades of blue and green to pastel pinks and even light browns. The sheer diversity of egg colors adds a touch of magic to the chicken-keeping experience.
Greatness Unrecognized
Easter Eggers are not a recognized breed like Rhode Island Reds or Leghorns but are a unique and delightful mix of chicken breeds, including Ameraucanas and Araucanas. As a result, their genetics create a lovely and unpredictable egg-laying experience, resulting in a plethora of colorful eggs that never fail to surprise.
Gathering Eggs
As kids collect eggs in blue, green, and pink hues, they showcase their unique egg collection to friends and family, proudly displaying their finds. This sparks excitement and wonder and provides an opportunity for children to share their newfound knowledge about chicken breeds and egg colors, becoming little chicken enthusiasts and educators in their own right.
Chicken Genetics
The vibrant assortment of Easter Egger eggs extends the educational aspect of raising backyard chickens. Children can learn about genetics and how different breeds contribute to the variety of egg colors produced. As they observe the differences in egg colors among their Easter Eggers, they gain insight into the inheritance patterns and traits that define each chicken breed.
Moreover, the surprise element of egg colors encourages kids to engage in scientific inquiry and problem-solving. They might wonder why some Easter Eggers lay blue eggs while others produce green or pink ones. Encouraging children to explore these questions ignites their curiosity and lays the groundwork for a deeper understanding of genetics and biology.
Easy-Going Chickens
Beyond the fascinating world of colorful eggs, Easter Eggers also possess friendly personalities, making them excellent companions for children. Their gentle demeanor allows kids to interact with them with tenacity, creating an environment of trust and friendship.
Large Breed Chickens
When choosing the right chicken breeds for families with children, size matters. Large chicken breeds are generally more suitable for kids, as they are easier to handle and interact with. While smaller bantam breeds may be adorable, their petite size can make them more delicate and challenging for young children to manage safely.
Here are some reasons why large breeds are the better option:
- Large chicken breeds, such as Orpingtons, Brahmas, and Wyandottes, have sturdy and substantial bodies that are easier for children to hold and carry. Children can hold them securely in their arms without fear of causing harm to the chickens or being accidentally injured themselves. The larger size also means that children are less likely to accidentally drop or mishandle the chickens, reducing stress for both the kids and the birds.
- They are generally more relaxed and tolerant of human interaction. Kids can spend time with these gentle giants without feeling intimidated, fostering a sense of trust and friendship between the children and their feathered friends.
- The ability to handle and care for larger birds boosts kids’ self-confidence and nurtures a sense of responsibility. As they take an active role in feeding, watering, and tending to the needs of their feathered companions, they develop valuable life skills and a greater appreciation for the natural world.
- Large chicken breeds are often prized for their egg-laying capabilities. Breeds like Rhode Island Reds, Orpingtons, and Sussex chickens are renowned for their consistent egg production, providing a bountiful supply of fresh eggs for the family. This promotes self-sufficiency and allows children to understand the process of egg production, from nest to table.
- Some large chicken breeds, such as Rhode Island Reds and Plymouth Rocks, are excellent dual-purpose birds. For families interested in sustainable living and homesteading, these breeds offer the added benefit of meat production, allowing children to learn about the circle of life and the importance of raising animals for food with care and respect.
The Joys of Raising Chickens with Kids
Raising chickens with kids is a rewarding and educational experience that leaves a lasting impression on young minds. It goes beyond providing fresh eggs and entertainment; it offers invaluable life lessons and instills a sense of responsibility and compassion in children. Here are some aspects of raising chickens with kids that make it a unique and enriching journey:
Nurturing Responsibility
Caring for chickens requires a daily commitment to their well-being. Children learn the importance of being responsible for another living being, developing a feeding routine, providing fresh water, and checking for signs of health or illness. This responsibility teaches children to be dependable and attentive to the needs of their feathered friends, instilling a sense of pride in their ability to care for and nurture animals.
Understanding Life Cycles
Raising chickens provides children with a front-row seat to the wonders of life cycles. From incubating eggs and witnessing the hatching of adorable chicks to observing the growth and development of these fluffy creatures into mature hens and roosters, kids gain a deeper appreciation for the miracles of nature. They learn about birth, growth, and the natural processes of reproduction and aging.
Developing Empathy and Compassion
According to an article in the Washington Post, a direct correlation exists between having a pet and empathy in children. As they spend time with their chickens, kids develop an understanding of the birds’ emotions and needs. They become more attuned to the chickens’ body language and vocalizations, learning to recognize signs of happiness, stress, and contentment. This heightened sensitivity to the feelings of animals extends to other aspects of their lives, making them more empathetic individuals.
Building Bonds and Friendships
Chickens have a surprising capacity to form strong bonds with their human caretakers, especially when raised from a young age. As children spend time with their chickens, the birds recognize and trust them, often following them around the yard or flocking to their side. These special friendships between children and their feathered companions create cherished memories and lasting connections that can endure for years.
Learning about Food and Sustainability
Raising chickens offers an opportunity to teach children about the origins of their food and the importance of sustainable practices. Kids learn that eggs come from hens and meat can come from raising chickens with care and respect. Understanding where food comes from and the efforts involved in producing it encourages children to make informed and conscious choices about their food consumption.
Encouraging Outdoor Time
In a world dominated by screens and indoor activities, it’s said that children get less time outside than prisoners. Raising chickens provides a reason for children to spend more time outdoors.
Whether it’s feeding the chickens, collecting eggs, or simply observing the flock’s daily activities, kids connect with nature and experience the joys of being outside, which is beneficial for their physical and mental well-being.
Valuable Lessons for Children
Beyond the joy and entertainment, raising backyard chickens offers valuable life lessons. Responsibility, empathy, and patience are just a few of the virtues children can develop through chicken farming. Kids will learn the significance of routine care, teamwork, and problem-solving as they feed, water, and maintain the coop.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Friends with Your Chickens
Acclimating chickens to positive interactions with children is a gradual process that requires patience and gentle guidance. By taking it step-by-step, you can create a harmonious and stress-free environment for both the chickens and the young caretakers. Here’s a guide to help chickens become accustomed to human contact, specifically with children:
Step 1: Familiarize Chickens with Children’s Presence
Begin by allowing the chickens to get used to the presence of children without direct interaction. Children can spend time around the coop, talking softly to the chickens and observing their behavior from a distance. This step helps the chickens become accustomed to the sight and sound of children without feeling overwhelmed.
Step 2: Supervised Interactions
Once the chickens seem comfortable with the children’s presence, move on to supervised interactions. Children should approach the chickens calmly and quietly, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises that might startle the birds. An adult should always be present during these interactions to ensure safety and provide guidance.
Step 3: Hand-Feeding Treats
Hand-feeding treats is an excellent way for children to start interacting with the chickens. Show children how to hold their hand out flat with the treats (such as small pieces of fruits or grains) on their palm and allow the chickens to peck gently. This activity builds trust between the chickens and the children, as the birds associate the youngsters with tasty rewards.
Step 4: Gentle Touching and Holding
Children can progress to gentle touching after the chickens are comfortable with hand-feeding. Show them how to softly stroke the chickens’ feathers and avoid touching sensitive areas, such as the wings or face. As the chickens become more at ease, children can try holding the birds briefly, supporting them securely, and keeping them calm during the process.
Step 5: Respect Boundaries
Teach children to respect the chickens’ boundaries and signals. If a chicken shows signs of stress or discomfort, such as flapping its wings, vocalizing, or trying to move away, children should give the bird some space and not pursue further interaction. Respect for the chickens’ feelings and preferences ensures positive and trust-based relationships.
Step 6: Encourage Regular Interactions
Daily visits to the coop, feeding treats, and gentle handling sessions can help solidify the relationship and build the chickens’ confidence in their young caretakers.
Step 7: Observe Chicken Behavior
Teach children to observe and interpret chicken behavior. Explain the signs of contentment, such as relaxed body language, purring sounds, and signs of stress or discomfort. This understanding allows children to respond appropriately to the chickens’ needs.
Step 8: Positive Reinforcement
Praise children for their gentle and caring interactions with the birds, and reward the chickens with treats and kind words when they respond positively to the children’s presence.
Step 9: Be Patient and Respectful
Remember that building trust and comfort takes time, and every chicken is different in how quickly they acclimate to human contact. Be patient and respectful of each chicken’s personality and boundaries.
Teaching Proper Chicken Handling
Teaching children how to handle their feathered friends properly will sow seeds of compassion and understanding between the two. So, gather your little chicken keepers and dive into the art of chicken handling.
Feathered Approach
When it comes to chicken interactions, always approach from the front. Teach your kids to cluck gently to get the chickens’ attention before stepping closer. Sudden movements can startle the hens, and we want to avoid any flapping feathers or frayed nerves. Slow and steady wins the race to a successful chicken connection.
Pet with Love
Encourage your kids to use the back of their fingers to caress the chickens’ soft feathers, just like giving a little chicken massage. Remind them that chickens have sensitive spots, so avoiding wings and faces is key to keeping our feathered pals comfortable and content.
A Cluck-worthy Hug
Show your children how to cradle the hens securely in their arms, supporting their bodies and keeping them close for a cozy and calming experience. Chickens love a good cuddle. With some gentle strokes, the kids will have their feathery friends settled in no time.
Respect and Kindness
Always treat chickens with respect and kindness. Emphasize the importance of being patient and gentle with their feathered companions. Remind the kids that chickens are living creatures, like us, with feelings and needs. Treating them with love and care is the golden rule of chicken keeping.
Chicken Whisperer
Now, it’s time for your little chicken keepers to channel their inner chicken whisperer! Encourage them to spend time with the chickens, talking softly, and building trust through calm interactions. As they bond with their clucky pals, they’ll discover that chickens are clever and communicative creatures with personalities.
The Language of Clucks
Show your children how chickens communicate through different clucks and sounds.
Chickens have many different types of clucks, but here are a few for you to point out:
Happy clucks – These are gentle, rhythmic clucks.
Curious clucks – Listen for a chorus of inquisitive chirps and clucks echoing through the coop.
Warning clucks (or crows from a rooster) – When the chickens are on high alert, they emit distinct warning clucks that can vary in intensity and tone.
Motherly clucks – These clucks are full of warmth and reassurance, comforting the young chicks and letting them know that Mom is nearby.
Contentment clucks –The contentment clucks are a gentle hum of satisfaction.
Stressed clucks – These clucks are sharper and more urgent, serving as an SOS call to the flock.
Time and Patience
Remind your little chicken enthusiasts that great chicken friendships take time and patience. Like their human friends, building a solid connection with chickens requires consistent love and care. Encourage them to spend time with the hens daily, as these feathered bonds strengthen with each cluck-filled moment.
Leading by Example
And last but not least, lead by example! Show your children how you handle the chickens with kindness and respect. When they see you caring for the birds, they’ll also understand the importance of being gentle and responsible chicken keepers.
The Final Cluck on Children-Friendly Chickens
Bringing chickens into your family is not a decision to be made lightly. If you decide to incorporate a coop into your family life, you’ll see benefits for years. Not only will you have fresh eggs, but your children will find a sense of purpose in caring for the birds. Young ones feel so much pride in being able to collect eggs and feed and water their own backyard flock. Over time, the chicken breeds listed above become family members with their own distinct personalities and quirks. I hope you enjoy the journey!