As a parent, teacher or even a Scout leader, start with a basic understanding of your local environment and the types of birds that live around you. This will make the teaching and educating easier, since children tend not to have the patience and stamina to watch and wait for that rare appearance. You may want to first begin with a bird house and / or bird feeder and attract the wild birds in your chosen area.

Choose a bird house that allows for nesting so that your local bluebirds, sparrows or cardinals can find an enjoyable habitat to raise their young. A family of birds tend to stay longer, especially when the nesting environment is large enough to support them. Your bird house should be weather resistant and have plenty of ventilation. Place a bird feeder nearby and keep it well stocked. Also be sure there is plenty of water nearby either in the form of a bird bath, lake or pond.

Once you have a family of birds living near you, involve the children:

1. Point out the species of birds that live in your bird house and keep a journal. Let your child or class handwrite the journal keeping notes on times of day such birds were eating, the number of birds observed and the weather.

2. Use some good bird identifying tools, flash cards or books. Being able to see the bird in full color and then in the wild on a regular basis, whether in your own backyard or while traveling helps to build the ability to observe successfully.

3. Obtain a set of bird watching binoculars that can provide just enough strength that the child can hold them steady and view the birds in all their glory.

Making bird watching a regular activity, if even for a short period of time, helps to reinforce all that you are teaching. Stay with it and soon you will have some childhood ornithologists on your hands!

You can find other useful tips that help teach kids about nature and the world around them by visiting our Learning Directory. Learn about mini gardens, topiaries and topiary forms, including bird houses and bird feeders while shopping our categories at HortiKids.com. Helping parents and educators teach kids about gardening and horticulture!

Make it a Great Day!