When can chicks go outside with mom?

[Lindsy]

Hi
I have 3 chicks with their mom staying in a portion of our hen house...separated by a board from the other 6 hens and 1 rooster. Space is limited...the chicks are 8 days old. When can I let the mom and chicks out with the others? She seems to be doing a good job of mothering but the separation thing is getting difficult and I can't think of any other options with my set up. Any help is appreciated as this is our "first" time with chicks!

 

[gritsar]

I let my hens hatch in the coop, but keep them locked in a dog crate for the first few days while Mama gets comfortable in her new role. Usually by about day three they are ready to tear the door off trying to return to the main flock, so I let them. They've done just fine. Mamas can be fierce about protecting those babies.