Family Birdhouse Project: Build, Bond, and Learn Together
You are creative. There’s also a high probability that your kids are too! In our experience, being creative with children is one of the best way to understand their tendencies and talents while deepening your bond with them.
Building a birdhouse DIY-style is the perfect weekend activity for quality family time! It’s easy, safe, and educational—plus, your kids get to learn about nature and basic construction skills. Yes, we want to skip to the next section so let’s get to bird housing!
Why Building a Birdhouse Is Great for Kids
- Hands-On Learning: Your child learns basic skills like measuring, hammering, and following steps.
- Boosts Creativity: Decorating the birdhouse can become an art project in itself.
- Teaches Patience & Focus: Great for developing attention span and finishing tasks.
- Encourages Love for Nature: Once the birdhouse is up, you can observe birds together.
Moreover, a study in 2016 by Roque, Ricarose Vallarta explains that creativity with kids helps them discover themselves, grow more confident and expand their knowledge. Including that in family time will also strengthen your bond and help create powerful memories for you to reminisce and build on in the future.
Tools & Materials You’ll Need
These materials are safe and easy to handle. You can find them at any craft or hardware store.
- 1 wooden birdhouse kit (or precut wood pieces: front, back, base, sides, roof)
- Small nails or wood glue (for younger kids)
- Hammer (with adult supervision)
- Sandpaper (fine-grit)
- Non-toxic paint or markers
- Paintbrushes
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Safety goggles (for fun and safety!)
Tip: Kits are available at most craft stores and remove the need for sawing wood.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Build a Birdhouse DIY
Step 1: Prep Your Workspace
Lay down newspaper or a plastic sheet on a large table or floor area. Make sure your space is clean and safe.
Step 2: Sand the Edges
Lightly sand all wooden edges to prevent splinters. This is a great job for young kids with supervision!
Step 3: Assemble the Walls
Start with the front and back pieces. Attach them to the sides using wood glue or nails. Hold them together and let dry if using glue.
Step 4: Attach the Base
Secure the base of the birdhouse to the wall structure. Make sure it sits flat and even.
Step 5: Add the Roof
Place the roof pieces on top, forming a peak. Glue or nail them down gently.
Step 6: Decorate Your Birdhouse
Here’s where the fun really begins! Let your kids paint, draw, and personalize the birdhouse. Add flowers, names, or fun patterns.
Step 7: Find a Spot Outside
Once dry, mount the birdhouse on a tree, fence post, or balcony rail using a hook or strap. Make sure it’s safe and shaded.
Bonus Tips for a Successful DIY Experience
- Let your child take the lead on decorating—it gives them ownership.
- Use bright colors to attract birds (and make your kids smile).
- Place some birdseed near the birdhouse to welcome feathered friends.
Educational Benefits for Children
This project is full of educational perks. Kids learn about:
- Animal habitats
- Measuring and construction basics
- Fine motor skills
- Following instructions
Wrap-Up: A Lasting Memory for Your Family
The beauty of a DIY birdhouse is that it’s more than just a craft. It’s a memory your kids will cherish. With just a few simple steps and materials, you’ve created a home for birds and a bonding experience for your family. Try this build a birdhouse DIY project today and turn your backyard into a cozy bird haven!
If you are a visual learner, here’s the link to a great 17-minute long video to help with your DIY Birdhouse!
