An enchanting nature activity to share with children for rekindling their connection to the outdoors

Why feed the birds? A meaningful activity for children

Feeding birds in winter is a simple, educational activity that deeply connects us to nature. It’s also a magical opportunity for children to understand the cycle of the seasons , learn patience, and develop a sense of respect for all living things .

Watching a blackbird peck at a piece of apple, or a titmouse come to fetch a sunflower seed, quickly becomes a small daily ritual. By offering food, children learn to give without expecting anything in return . And nature, grateful, responds with a vibrant display of songs and colors.

But be careful: birds don’t need to be fed all year round . This good habit must be practiced at the right time so as not to disrupt their instincts.

When to feed the birds?

Winter: the ideal time to help them

Feeding birds becomes truly important between November and March . During this period, insects, fruits, and natural seeds become scarce. The cold depletes their energy, and finding food can become a real challenge.

 Tip: Start feeding the birds as soon as the first frosts appear and gradually stop as nature comes back to life in spring.

Why not feed the birds all year round?

Even if it stems from good intentions, feeding them in spring, summer, or autumn can be harmful. Outside of winter, birds naturally find everything they need : insects, worms, berries, wild plant seeds…

Feeding them at that time risks:

• Weaken their natural searching instinct.
• Attracting them to places unsuitable for nesting.
• They could be exposed to disease if leftover food spoils.

 The golden rule: feed the birds only when the ground is frozen or snowy .

What should I feed the birds?

Foods adapted to the species

Not all birds have the same needs. Here is a list of natural and beneficial foods:

Type of bird	Recommended food
Tits	Sunflower seeds, nuts, fat balls without netting
Robins	Oats, dried fruit, wholemeal breadcrumbs
Finches	Various seeds millet
Blackbirds and thrushes	Sliced ​​apples, soaked raisins
Sparrows	Cereal mix, small pieces of nuts

 Absolutely avoid: white bread, processed salty, sugary or fatty foods. These products disrupt their digestive system.

How to feed the birds?

1. Set up a quiet and safe area

Choose a quiet spot, sheltered from the wind, cats, and loud noises. Ideally, place the feeder near a tree or shrub where birds can safely perch before approaching.

2. Clean the bird feeder regularly

A dirty bird feeder can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Clean it once a week with warm water (no soap) and let it dry thoroughly. This prevents the spread of disease among the birds.

3. Also offer water

Even in winter, birds need water to drink and clean their feathers. Place a small, shallow container and change the water daily. If it freezes, pour in a little warm water to thaw it naturally (without salt or sugar).

3 DIY ideas for 100% eco-friendly bird bells

Making a natural seed dome is a wonderful way to combine creativity, learning, and respect for the environment. Here are three easy ideas to make with children.

1. Bird bell in an orange peel

An orange peel becomes a mini biodegradable bird feeder! 
Materials:

• 1 orange cut in half
• Of the sunflower seeds or a special birdseed mix
• A natural twine

Save

Steps:

1. Carefully empty the inside of the orange.
2. Make two holes on each side to thread the string through.
3. Fill it with seeds and hang it from a branch.

Save

A sensory and zero-waste craft that fills the air with a fruity fragrance.

2. Bell on a pine cone

A classic activity, but always magical! 
Materials:

• A large pine cone
• Of peanut butter or vegetable fat
• A variety of seeds

Save

Steps:

1. Spread a thin layer of butter or fat on the casserole dish.
2. Roll it in the seeds.
3. Hang it outside with a string.

This craft project allows children to explore textures and understand how food can nourish wildlife.

Save

3. Ice Bell

Perfect for very cold days. 
Material:

• A small mold (glass, cup, yogurt pot)
• Water,seedsand some pieces of fruit

Save

Steps:

1. Pour the water and seeds into the mold.
2. Leave to freeze outside or in the freezer.
3. Remove the bell from the mold and hang it from a branch with natural string.

A magical activity where nature itself becomes the material of creation .

Learn to observe and respect birds

Encourage your child to keep a small observation journal: note down the species seen, draw their feathers or their songs. 
This daily routine helps them develop:

• Patience and concentration
• Love of life
• A gentle and sustainable ecological awareness

You can also set up a pair of binoculars near the window or make a printable bird identification sheet.

Going further

•  Read also: How to create a seed bell for birds in winter (supplementary article with step-by-step instructions and eco-friendly materials)
•  External resource: Bird feeding tips by Birds Canada

Feeding birds is an activity that fosters a deep connection with nature , perfect for introducing children to ecology. But the greatest act of love remains observing without disturbing them , and offering only what they truly need, at the right time.

By learning when to feed the birds, how to do it and with what , we discover another way to celebrate winter: that of sharing, respect and gratitude towards wildlife.