If these are 4H MEAT chickens, then you might want to stick to the diet recommended to you by the 4H leader. Give them some scraps as treats. Meat chickens for show are different from just backyard chickens for eggs. You might want to repost this in the meat chicken forum and ask about showing Cornish Cross. In your original post you did not state if you are getting these for eggs or meat. I remember reading a very detailed post about raising meat chickens for show.
As far as backyard chickens for eggs, the more yummy stuff, the merrier. Mine love all kinds of scraps, kitchen trimmings and goodies from the garden. If you have them through the summer, remember, chickens can't sweat. When they get hot, they open their beaks and pant like a dog. I give mine a shallow tub to wade in, as the cool water cools the blood in their feet and legs and thus, as the blood circulates through their body, it helps to cool them down. Another thing they love is what I call "chicken popsicles" which is frozen watermelon rind, cantaloupe peelings and seeds, cucumbers, any goodies that you can freeze for them.
Chickens are a lot of fun. They are addicting, you will want MORE! I love all the different breeds and colors, wish I could have them all. Enjoy your chickens!
