“I’m thinking about getting chickens for our backyard, but I’m not sure which breeds would be best for our family. We have two young kids, ages 5 and 7, who are excited about the idea of having pet chickens. What are the best chicken breeds for families with children? I want to make sure we choose friendly and safe birds that the kids can interact with. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!” Thanks, Jennifer, Auckland, New Zealand.
The Best Chicken Breeds for Families with Children
Hey Jennifer! It’s fantastic that you’re considering adding chickens to your family in Auckland. Choosing the right breed can make all the difference in creating a positive experience for your kids and ensuring everyone’s safety and enjoyment. Let’s explore some of the best chicken breeds that are well-suited for families with children, especially considering your little ones’ ages.
Why Choose Kid-Friendly Chicken Breeds?
Before we dive into specific breeds, it’s important to understand why choosing kid-friendly chickens matters. The right breeds will be:
- Docile and easy to handle
- Less likely to become aggressive or flighty
- More tolerant of children’s enthusiasm and energy
- Generally quieter, which is great for suburban settings
- Often good egg layers, providing an educational experience for kids
Now, let’s look at some of the top chicken breeds that fit these criteria and would be perfect for your family in Auckland.
1. Silkies
Silkies are often considered the teddy bears of the chicken world, making them an excellent choice for families with young children like yours, Jennifer. These fluffy birds are known for their:
- Exceptionally soft, fur-like feathers
- Calm and friendly temperament
- Small size, which is less intimidating for children
- Tolerance for being held and petted
While Silkies aren’t the best egg layers, producing about 100-120 small eggs per year, their gentle nature more than makes up for it. They’re also quite hardy, adapting well to various climates, which is perfect for Auckland’s mild weather.
2. Australorps
Australorps are another fantastic choice for families with kids. These birds are:
- Docile and easy-going
- Known for their friendly personalities
- Excellent egg layers, producing about 250 large brown eggs per year
- Hardy and adaptable to different environments
Australorps are also relatively large birds, which can make them easier for children to handle without fear of accidentally hurting them. Their glossy black feathers are beautiful, adding visual appeal to your backyard flock.
3. Buff Orpingtons
Buff Orpingtons are often referred to as the “golden retrievers” of the chicken world, which should give you an idea of their temperament, Jennifer. These birds are:
- Exceptionally friendly and calm
- Large and fluffy, making them great for cuddling
- Good egg layers, producing about 200-280 large brown eggs annually
- Cold-hardy, which isn’t crucial for Auckland but still a nice feature
Their gentle nature makes them ideal for families with children, as they’re patient and tolerant of handling. The golden-buff color of their feathers is also quite beautiful and appealing to kids.
4. Sussex
Sussex chickens are another breed that’s well-suited for families with children. They offer:
- A calm and friendly disposition
- Curiosity and intelligence, making them engaging pets
- Good egg-laying capabilities, with about 250 large eggs per year
- Various color varieties, adding visual interest to your flock
Sussex chickens are known to be good foragers, which can be entertaining for kids to watch. They’re also relatively quiet, which is a bonus for suburban settings like yours in Auckland.
5. Plymouth Rocks
Plymouth Rocks, particularly the Barred Rock variety, are excellent choices for families. These birds are:
- Docile and easy to handle
- Known for their friendly personalities
- Good egg layers, producing about 200-280 large brown eggs annually
- Hardy and adaptable to various climates
The distinctive black and white barred pattern of Barred Rocks is visually appealing and can help children easily identify and name individual birds.
Considerations for Raising Chickens with Children
While choosing the right breed is crucial, Jennifer, there are other factors to consider when raising chickens with children:
Safety First
Always supervise interactions between chickens and children, especially with younger kids like your 5-year-old. Teach your children how to handle chickens gently and respect their space.
Hygiene
Ensure your children understand the importance of washing their hands after handling chickens or collecting eggs. This helps prevent the spread of diseases like Salmonella.
Responsibilities
Involving your kids in chicken care can be a great way to teach responsibility. Age-appropriate tasks might include:
- Collecting eggs (with supervision)
- Filling food and water containers
- Helping to clean the coop (for older children)
Education
Use your backyard flock as an educational tool. Teach your children about:
- The life cycle of chickens
- Where food comes from
- Basic animal care and welfare
Housing Your Chickens
When setting up your chicken coop in Auckland, consider:
- Adequate space: Each chicken needs about 2-3 square feet inside the coop and 8-10 square feet in an outside run
- Predator-proofing: Ensure the coop is secure from potential predators
- Easy access: Design the coop so it’s easy for you and your children to access for cleaning and egg collection
- Weather protection: While Auckland has a mild climate, ensure the coop provides shelter from rain and wind
Legal Considerations
Before getting chickens, Jennifer, make sure to check Auckland’s local regulations regarding backyard poultry. Most areas allow a small number of hens (usually no roosters), but it’s always best to verify the specific rules for your neighborhood.
Starting Your Flock
When you’re ready to start your flock, consider:
- Starting with 3-4 hens: This is a good number for beginners and will provide enough eggs for a family
- Buying from reputable sources: Look for local hatcheries or breeders with healthy birds
- Getting vaccinated chicks or pullets: This can help prevent common chicken diseases
Potential Challenges
While chickens can make wonderful pets, be prepared for potential challenges:
- Noise: Even hen-only flocks can be noisy at times
- Maintenance: Regular coop cleaning and health checks are necessary
- Commitment: Chickens can live 5-10 years, so they’re a long-term commitment
Final Thoughts…
Jennifer, choosing to raise chickens with your family in Auckland is an exciting adventure! Remember, the best breeds for families with children are typically docile, friendly, and easy to handle. Silkies, Australorps, Buff Orpingtons, Sussex, and Plymouth Rocks are all excellent choices that your 5 and 7-year-old will likely adore. Whichever breed you choose, involving your children in chicken care can teach them valuable lessons about responsibility, animal welfare, and where their food comes from. Thank you for reaching out with your question – it’s wonderful to see families like yours embracing backyard chicken keeping. I’m confident that with the right breed and proper care, your family will have a rewarding and enjoyable experience with your new feathered friends. Good luck with your chicken-raising journey!
