bigstack and bel's guidance are very good. A couple of weeks ago, I had the same question and got very similar advice. I've used treats and deliberate, low and slow movement to great affect. Our chickies now run over to me to see what I have for them. Quick, "menacing" movements do send them into a panic though, even now.
I think what folks need to remember is that your chicks may not have any other chickens to teach them how to be "pet/farm" chickens. Yes, they are born with very strong instincts but their instinct says that they should fear you just like the bird outside your window. It takes time (not that much really) to imprint yourself on them and convince them that you're not a threat.
Semi-tame squirrels in a park are another example. How often do you see young squirrels begging for food? It takes them a while to learn from the older squirrels and to begin to associate human beings with food and drop their guard so to speak.
I think what folks need to remember is that your chicks may not have any other chickens to teach them how to be "pet/farm" chickens. Yes, they are born with very strong instincts but their instinct says that they should fear you just like the bird outside your window. It takes time (not that much really) to imprint yourself on them and convince them that you're not a threat.
Semi-tame squirrels in a park are another example. How often do you see young squirrels begging for food? It takes them a while to learn from the older squirrels and to begin to associate human beings with food and drop their guard so to speak.
