Are you searching for a memorable fun outdoor project that gets your family away from screens and into nature? Look no further! Building a birdhouse with kids is a classic activity that combines creativity, basic construction skills, and a wonderful lesson in caring for wildlife. It’s the perfect weekend backyard project for kids that results in a beautiful addition to your garden and a safe home for your feathered friends.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make this kids woodworking project a resounding success.
Why Build a Birdhouse?
Beyond the simple fun of creating something together, this project offers numerous benefits. It’s a fantastic outdoor family activity that:
- Teaches Basic Skills: Kids learn about measuring, assembling, and using simple tools in a safe, supervised environment.
- Encourages Creativity: From assembly to decoration, children can express their artistic side.
- Connects Them with Nature: This project is a gateway to birdwatching and learning about local ecosystems. It’s a great first step in attracting birds to your yard.
- Builds Confidence: Completing a project from start to finish gives kids a huge sense of accomplishment.
Getting Your Materials Ready
You have two main options for this project: starting from scratch or using a kit. A simple birdhouse kit is often the easiest route, as it comes with pre-cut pieces and all the necessary hardware. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can find many easy birdhouse plans online and get your wood cut at a local hardware store.
Here are the basic birdhouse materials and tools you’ll need:
- Wood: One 1″ x 6″ x 6′ untreated pine or cedar board is usually sufficient. Avoid pressure-treated wood, as it can be harmful to birds.
- Fasteners: About 20-30 galvanized screws or nails.
- Tools:
- Safety goggles (essential!)
- A handsaw (if cutting your own pieces)
- A hammer or screwdriver/drill
- Sandpaper (medium grit)
- Measuring tape and a pencil
- For Decorating: Non-toxic, water-based paint or markers.
How to Build Your Birdhouse: A Step-by-Step Guide
The process of building a birdhouse with kids should be about the journey, not just the destination. Take your time and enjoy each step together.
Step 1: Prepare the Pieces If you’re not using a kit, carefully measure and cut your wood pieces according to your chosen easy birdhouse plans. This step is best handled by an adult. Once the pieces are cut, have your kids help sand all the rough edges until they are smooth. This is an important safety step and prepares the surface for assembly.
Step 2: Assemble the Walls Start by attaching the side walls to the floor piece using wood glue and a few nails or screws for reinforcement. Show your child how to hold the pieces steady while you fasten them together. Continue by attaching the front and back walls. The front piece should have an entrance hole pre-drilled. The size of the hole will determine what kind of birds you attract! A 1 1/8-inch hole is great for wrens and chickadees.
Step 3: Attach the Roof Attach one side of the roof securely. For easier cleaning later, you can attach the second roof panel with a hinge or a couple of removable screws. This allows you to open the birdhouse at the end of the season to clean it out for new visitors next year.
Step 4: Decorate Your Creation This is the most exciting part of the DIY birdhouse for kids! Let your children’s imaginations run wild. Use bird-safe, non-toxic paints to decorate the exterior. Bright colors can sometimes deter birds, so consider using more natural, earthy tones. Be sure to only paint the outside of the birdhouse, leaving the interior plain.
Step 5: Find the Perfect Home The final step is finding the right spot in your yard. For the best chance of attracting birds to your yard, mount the birdhouse on a pole or post 5 to 10 feet off the ground in a relatively quiet area. Face the entrance away from prevailing winds and direct sun.
There you have it! This rewarding fun outdoor project has provided a wonderful learning experience and a lovely new home for your local bird population. Enjoy watching for your first feathered residents!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always ensure adult supervision when children are using tools or handling materials. Follow all safety guidelines recommended by tool and material manufacturers.
