By day (and many nights), I am the CEO/Editor-in-Chief of Wasabi Media Group.  However, in my spare time I am a chicken farmer.  Having had chickens at my home during my childhood, I gladly embraced the idea when my husband suggested it a few years ago.  We raised a group of chickens for egg-laying purposes until their productivity waned.  This spring we have begun raising our second group of chickens.

The chicks arrive only days old.  Tiny and fluffy, they peep quietly and enjoy the heat of the lamp above their pen.  For approximately the first month, they need to stay indoors while they become fully feathered and the outdoor nighttime temperatures increase.  During this time, the chicks are the center of attention with family and friends.  These chicks are a great instrument for teaching children how to care for small animals; the kids learn to be gentle, to monitor the animals’ environment, and to respect the animals’ needs.

In addition to being a teaching tool for children, they are a great reminder of what we need and what we want.  The chicks have few requirements: food, water, heat.  As long as the heat lamp is turned on and they have access to starter feed and fresh water, they are content.  However, even chicks have wants.  A small bug flew into their pen the other night, and it was quite the excitement.  All twelve of the chicks vied to be the one who would catch this snack.

Among the articles published at WMG this week, we cover these topics throughout the channels.  For ideas on a pet that could round out your family and give your children an opportunity to learn how to care for a living creature, check out this article.  When it is time to do some shopping, consider what your wants and needs really are through some insight here.

Or, you could buy a dozen chicks and discover these lessons in your own home.