Yes, in fact you will find that they are very smart. Once they trust you and see that good things come from their keeper, they will be happy hens. Chickens are not robots, they have feelings of fear, anxiousness, contentment, enjoyment too. They have really good memory also. You are in the bonding period right now, building trust. Speak softly to your little girls. Let them get used to hearing your voice, move slowly in their environment. Don't let dogs bark or harass them, young children also must be taught that these are living things, and must be treated kindly. In return they will serve your family by providing eggs!