First time chicken owner here

[aknoepp]

So this weekend we just got 6 baby Barred Rock chicks. This is the first time we've ever owned hens so we are excited but nervous at the same time. We also have a 2 1/2 year old daughter who is wanting to get them out and let them sit on her lap, etc. Any suggestions and/or advice is much appreciated! Thanks in advance!

 

[Chicken Girl1]

Hello from a fellow Virginian

and Welcome to BYC!

Glad to have you join! Feel free to make yourself at home! I first want to say Barred Rocks are one of my favorite breeds, they are so sweet and have wonderful personalities. I have two younger brothers 7 and 5 and they also trying to hold the little chicks 24/7. I just remind them that they need sleep just like babies and need to be treated like them. I hope you and your family enjoy your little peepers!

 

[aknoepp]

Thank you so much!

 

[Chickenshoe]

hold the chicks often, they will bond quickly and wont be afraid of you compared to having no contact..... enjoy your ladies

 

[Kelsie2290]

Hello and Welcome To BYC! Be sure to check out the Chick section of the Learning Center, there are some nice articles on socializing your chicks https://www.backyardchickens.com/a/hatching-eggs-and-raising-chicks

 

[aknoepp]

Thank you!

 

[BantamFan4Life]

Welcome to BYC! I'm glad you joined us!

 

[Wyandottes7]

Welcome to BYC!

I'm glad you joined our community.

Congratulations on your new chicks! Barred Rocks are a nice first breed that should be great egg layers.

 

[Mountain Peeps]

Welcome to BYC! Please make yourself at home and we are here to help.

Enjoy your barred rocks!

 

[drumstick diva]

It's best if children sit on the ground when socializing with chicks, they move and jump fast. A fall or hard squeeze can injure or kill them quickly. Welcome to BYC