Bird Watching
Connecting Kids to Nature

What IS Bird Watching For Kids?

Bird watching is more than just observing birds.  It is an interest in the actual birds -- learning their names, identifying their markings, observing their activities, songs, behavior and habitats.  Not only does bird watching encourage a child (and his/her parents) to learn about birds, but it gets them outside and builds and appreciation of local wildlife and the natural world.  When children participate in backyard bird feeding activities it adds another level of enjoyment by encouraging birds to revisit.  It is also an ideal way to bring birds up close making it easier to observe their behavior.

Where Can You Go to Bird Watch?

Bird watching can be as simple an activity as setting up a bird feeder and bird bath in your backyard which invites  wild birds to come to you.  However, your children will no doubt appreciate time spent outdoors properly geared up for an outing of bird watching with you.  Walking in your neighborhood or hiking are great ways for children to get exercise that turns into fun a fulfilled adventure when bird watching.

You'll soon learn about the specific habitats of birds that live around your home.  As you become familiar with local birds expand your horizons by taking trips to areas that will feature different species than you have locally.  Watch as your children eagerly try to identify these new birds before you do.

What Do You Need?

Bird watching is an inexpensive hobby, especially compared to other activities for children.  If you are going on a walk or hike you'll want everyone to have proper attire -- including an extra pair of socks and a hat.  Other than that you will need at least one pair of binoculars, although it is more fun if everyone has their own pair so nobody misses out on a sighting.  There are special binoculars for kids.  You'll also want a bird book (called a field guide) to help you identify the birds you see.  If you take along one that features birds in your area it will also give you suggestions about where you can find them.

If your children are older, or you catch the bird watching bug, be sure to take along a notepad and camera.  Make notes on birds you can't identify and look them up at home with your children to determine what you saw.  You might also develop a list of local birds and check them off as you see them.  This is great for kids who thrive on challenge.

Backyard Bird Feeding -  Don't miss out on one of the best bird watching activities for people of all ages that is especially good for children ... feeding birds in your own backyard.  It can be enjoyed at any moment of the day by putting up a feeder(s) to get started.  But if you really want to attract birds add a bird bath.  You and your kids will have even more fun if you put up a bird house(s) (nestbox) to watch a new family of baby birds being raised.

Bird watching and backyard bird feeding are wonderful hobbies the whole family can enjoy.  Try it one afternoon and see for yourself how your family bonds while enjoying the fresh air, local scenery and most of all ... the natural world.