How Your Kids Can Help You Care for Your Backyard Ducks

Raising backyard ducks is obviously rewarding for adults, but have you ever considered that it can also be great for your children? It’s a surefire way to teach them about responsibility, empathy, and nature, helping them to connect with animals in a meaningful way while giving you an extra set of helping hands.

Feeding Time Helpers

One of the simplest, yet consistent chores you can let your teams handle is feeding the ducks. Whether it’s pouring fresh pellets into their feeders or tossing veggies into the run, it’s a hands-on task that children of most ages can do. It’s also helpful to explain what foods are healthy and safe for ducks, so they understand that they’re not just feeding, they’re helping care for living creatures.

Gathering Eggs

If you’ve got egg-laying ducks, collecting them can be a fun and exciting job for kids. You may find that your little ones treat it as a daily treasure hunt. You’ll just have to teach them how to handle the eggs gently and place them carefully in a basket. It’s an easy way to build routine and responsibility into their day.

Keeping Things Clean

Ducks can be messy, but even young kids can assist with basic coop cleaning. They can help by refilling clean water, scooping out soiled bedding into a compost bin, and laying down fresh straw or shavings. It’s a bit of work but doing it together can turn it into a shared task rather than a chore.

Watching and Reporting

Kids have a knack for picking up on the little things. They’ll quickly begin to notice signs of injury among the ducks, their water level, and whether they seem active and happy. This will give them a sense of ownership and teaches them to care about animal well-being.

Getting your kids involved in backyard duck care is a great way to bond as a family while raising healthy, happy birds. If you’re thinking of adding ducks to your backyard flock, Chickens for Backyards has a great selection to help you get started. We have a variety of breeds and all the supplies you’ll need. Contact us today to get started!