Hardy, friendly chickens recommendations...

[Peacechick713]

I would say that the most friendly, yet hardy chicken I know is the Chanticleer. They are perfect for Canada's winters and cold climate. The hens and rosters are very docile and would be very friendly to your daughters. They lay well during the winter. The only bad side to them that I know is that they're hard to find, other than that I would say this is the ideal breeds for any chicken person.
I also recommend Ameraucanas, They too are very docile (Honestly I can't think of a more docile breed). They are just (if not more) as cold hardy than the Chanticleer. they lay in the winter and the roosters are just as friendly as the hens. Ameraucanas aren't that hard to find compared to the Chanticleer.

I hope this helps, enjoy your future experience with chickens!

 

[Treerooted]

I know you've probably had enough info now, but one more won't hurt will it?

Currently in the polar vortex , so I'll let you know how my chickens are doing Please note that it is my first winter with this flock, all hatched in April.


By far my Buff Brahmas endure the weather the best. In the mornings they're often the only ones off the roost, just scratching around like it's not -30.
They're still laying.

My friendliest birds are my Speckled Sussex, they've become my favorite simply because of their personalities, they're also still laying.


(The other breeds I have are Golden & Silver Laced Wyandottes, Black Australorp, and Barnevelders, and they're all doing well so far)

 

[TwoCrows]

I know, I know, its been mentioned before....Black Australorps! If you are going to keep a hatchery breed, this is the breed for friendliness, hardy in many ways, less health issues, can tolerate intense heat, brutal cold, they live long for hatchery stock, excellent layer, if for pets super friendly, if for meat big carcass! I love this breed!

 

[Corys chickens]

Because you're in a cold climate and need to be concerned about frostbite, get birds with small combs.

GREAT PICTURE OF EGGS