What would you recommend for a 5 yr old that wants to show chickens?

Two words....HE'S FIVE!

 

silkies and cochins r the best for first time chicken owners and children

 

Good for him! showing chickens is an awesome activity! I agree with the previos poster but I also think that modern games make awsome first time show birds! I would also try to join a local 4-h group and show at 4-h shows. My sister does that. The only thing that you should make sure of regarding the breed he chooses is make sure it's his size... He's not going to have a good experience if he shows a jersey giant that he can't control! (and yes i've seen that before... poor chicken! )

Good Luck!
Maddie

 

That is so EXCELLENT that he wants to be involved with the birds He will have such fun and learn so many important things....
My sisters and i were about that age when we started raising and showing rabbits .We have many fond memories as well as having learned about compassion, responsibility etc. because of it....

 

My grandkids have had good experiences with bantam Brahmas.

 

My daughter showed a little australorp last year, and now she really wants to get into japanese bantams, she really thinks they are cute with their short legs and their tail set high. She is almost 6. I would limit him to 5 or so breeds that you think he would like, and then have him pick from those. A lot of kids like silkies cause they stre so soft, but when I showed them to my daughter she said she wanted a chicken that looked like a chicken lol

 

I find bantam cochins really sweet and the kids love them cause they are little fluffballs

 

Anything bantam is easier for young children, he will love it! Get "Storey's illustrated guide to Poultry breeds" and let him pick out a breed he likes the looks of. Silkies, Cochins, d'Uccle, and Moderns Games are said to be good. I have silkies and my little sister loves to hold them! She also likes the hens. Silkies chicks are the cutest.
But if you are looking for a breed you can keep in a cage, you should try Seramas! They are SO friendly, sweet, and cute, but be gentle with the chicks, which are very small.

 

My son shows ducks at the fair and he started when he was 5. My 3 yr old daughter also got involved this year. He will love it. I would go with silkies if you can keep them warm enough in the winter. Cochins are fabulous birds for kids and more hardy than silkies. The only problem with the feather footed breads is you have to clean the poop and dirt off of them before you show.