How to introduce bird watching to kids?
Photo by Diane Helentjaris on Unsplash
In this article, we will talk about ways to introduce bird watching to kids. Birds are a great way to get youngsters interested in nature since they can be found almost anywhere. The more you observe the birds, the more you will notice them.
We suggest hanging a basic bird feeder and feeding it with commercial birdseed if you have space in your yard or on your balcony. Birds will rush to your feeder once they realize you’re open for business, providing you with plenty of opportunity for observation and identification with the kids.
Where should young birders begin?
Birds are a great way to get youngsters interested in nature since they can be found almost anywhere. Bird feeders in the backyard are a nice place to start. Because children are easily fascinated by nature, all you need to do is make it more interesting, so they love it even more.
Neighborhood parks, for example, provide far more than just a spot of green to walk around. They provide an exciting opportunity to see birds, butterflies, dragonflies, frogs, toads, sticks, stones, and leaves, among other things.
Also, wetland areas are common in parks, and because water birds are generally big and visible, ponds are a wonderful location to start for new birders. When seeking bird-watching sites, think outside the box. For a change of pace, go cycling, hiking, or kayaking.
How long does it take for a bird to locate a feeder?
For a bird to find a feeder usually ranges from 5 to 18 days. As you might expect, the number of days depends on several factors, including the location of the feeder, the bird species, environmental safety, and the time of day.
How to make a recycled materials bird feeder?
By reusing old milk cartons, you can welcome more birds into your garden with this DIY bird feeder. This simple craft is extremely enjoyable for children and their parents to complete together. Simply select a paint color and apply whatever craft or natural materials best suit your concept.
The final outcome will be a lovely yard decoration that also serves as a fantastic food source for your feathered friends.
You will need these materials:
- 1 carton of milk or juice
- Rope, cable, ribbon, or wire are all options.
- Brushes for painting
- Decorations made from repurposed home items, crafts, or nature
- Hot glue or craft
Scavenger hunt – an awesome bird-watching game
What’s the greatest approach to stimulate a child’s interest in birds? Make it a game!
Birding is a sport in which the objective is to see as many birds as possible. For some children, counting up from zero to an arbitrary number—for example, 5 different species of birds or 20 birds in one trip, will be good enough to keep them focused and entertained.
Allow them to take the lead
Some children will go far just to be in control, and outdoor exploration is an excellent way to encourage their independence. Allow them to pick which park to visit, or show them a map of your neighborhood and allow them to choose which open areas to visit.
Basic birding equipment for children
Aside from your eyes, hearing, and sense of wonder, these items will allow you in getting started with your children in discovering the fascinating world of birds.
- Binoculars
While binoculars aren’t extremely important, they may be quite useful whether looking from afar or trying to get a closer look for identification.
- Colored pencils and a field journal
A nature diary is a terrific approach to encourage youngsters to document what they see in the wild, even if it isn’t absolutely essential. They can use it to write notes on the weather and the ecosystem they’re investigating, draw drawings, or collect leaves and feathers for home study.
- Snacks and water
For young adventurers, this is one of the most important things. Sometimes adventures may be exhausting, and the last thing you want is an angry youngster wishing he could be at home watching a movie or playing video games. Out in the field, granola bars, apples, and trail mix are the way to go.
Final words on ways to introduce bird watching with kids
Bird-watching activities and lessons for kids may help them learn about birds and expand their knowledge of the many different types and species of birds that live in their area and throughout the world.
To put it another way, this article can teach you things about introducing bird watching with kids and get them outside to form a bond with the natural world and the mysteries it holds.
Author BIO
Tony Manhart is the founder and editor-in-chief at Gardeningdream. Tony’s enthusiasm and rich experience in all things related to growing plants have led him to share his knowledge with gardening aficionados all over the world. When he is not working around his garden, Tony spends his time writing tips and tricks on various subjects related to plant cultivation and soil maintenance.