But what do chickens have in common with Psychologists?

Well, when you get depressed, angry, or frustrated with life or certain human acquaintances (Ahem - the occasional impossible co-worker?) you might consider grabbing a lawn chair and heading out to your chicken pen.

As you watch your little flock go about their daily routine, you'll notice that each chicken has its own personality . . . you’ll probably observe that one hen becomes the center of attention and seems to be the "boss" of the others. That's the "pecking order" in action.

Always moving, they compete for every worm, piece of grass or the scratch you threw out earlier. Sometimes they’ll get into arguments and cause an uproar that reminds you not to overreact to petty things.

You’ll get to know and appreciate each one of them and you’ll realize they’re actually a very intelligent species.  Studying them as a group makes for a pretty interesting sociology lesson.  Add a rooster to the mix and you'll get a whole new perspective.

After an hour or so, you’ll go back inside your house feeling calm, happy, and relieved of stress. Your blood pressure will have fallen and you’ll feel grounded again—ready to reasonably tackle the challenges of the day.  And, no bill from the doctor!

Even if You’re a Lifelong City Slicker, You’ll Know What Chickens and Omelets Have in Common

Your hens will lay eggs, you’ll gather them, and be free to fix yourself an omelet.  Basically, chickens pay you back for providing them shelter and food.  What other household pet does that?  Certainly not a dog . . . or a cat. No disrespect intended. I have one of each (they co-exist just fine).

It’s downright convenient not to have to run to the store just for eggs, especially if you’ve gotten hit with an unexpected snow storm. Or get a sudden craving for, I don't know, cake or something else that can't be made without one of those "incredible, edible eggs".  That ever happen to you?

Most people notice that the taste of fresh eggs trumps grocery store eggs every time, so when you have extras they’re thrilled to either buy them or trade with you for something they have. 

That something could range from a basket of fresh-picked leaf lettuce to add to your egg salad sandwich, to an hour of babysitting or some other service.  And people do a lot of bartering during recessionary times like we're having now.

A Flock of Chickens Simply Equals Happy Kids

I heartily endorse getting chickens for your children to have as pets and take care of according to their age capabilities.  It’s a great hobby. They’ll learn a ton about life, and being responsible little people builds up their self-esteem and confidence.

That makes them Happy Kids. 

Personally, I don't have kids, yet. Can’t wait to have some, though. Several, if my future wife (identity not yet known) agrees. I'll be excited to introduce them to farm activities, especially caring for the chickens and collecting the eggs.  Since I was a kid once, though, I can testify to the enjoyment, education, and social growth that come from having pet chickens.

Fitting and showing pet chickens before a judge and large groups of people helps kids conquer shyness and forces them to be good communicators.  Learning about caring for their pets and studying the breeds of chickens helps them to become better readers and spellers, too. 

Chickens will entertain your kids and give them a feeling of belonging and an understanding of their value to the world.  Since they often live  at least fifteen years, your child can have a special pet throughout their growing up years. And, raising chickens is a totally wholesome activity.

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