getting baby chicks used to handling

[azygous]

It's been a month since the OP presented this problem to the forum. I'm wondering if things have improved with the chicks now that they're five weeks old.

This is such a common problem for new chick raisers - trying to overcome the fear of chicks being picked up. It's really very simple. Chicks are naturally scared of being picked up from up above. Simply changing to a brooder elevated up on a table with a side access so you are reaching for the chicks from the side will dramatically improve the fear factor. Chicks raised in this manner are far more trusting and friendly than those raised in a brooder on the floor that you have to reach down into from above. The chicks think your hands are hawks trying to snatch them.

 

[Celie64]

I use an indoor guinea pig cage as a brooder and it has a front opening which is fantastic because they clearly see and hear me coming so when I open the cage it isn't a shock. they are 3 weeks old now and run up to the door cheeping. very very cute. when I go to pick them up i put my hand flat on the bottom of the cage and they after about 20 secs of light pecking and curiosity they step onto it. I don't lift my hand up for another 10 secs or so to make sure theyre really comfortable and minimise rish of them jumping off and hurting themselves when i lift my hand up. when I hold them i put one hand over their back which keeps them warm and they soon fall asleep! Also I let them play on the floor of the living room or wherever and I call them and they have learnt to run over to me for food. Also very very cute! They love to perch on my arm as well.
Sounds like you're doing a great job!