Unleash Your Grandchildren’s Creativity with a DIY Birdhouse Painting Project

Birdwatching is an easy and relaxing hobby – but have you ever thought of introducing your grandkids to it? Needless to say, it isn’t tough to pick up, but, like everything else, I like to introduce it by doing an activity together. 

Enter making and decorating a DIY birdhouse! 

Not only is making a birdhouse together memorable, but it is a great way to get your grands more in tune with birds and nature. Here are a few other reasons why you and your grandkids should both take up birdwatching and make your own DIY birdhouses: 

Benefits of Birdwatching

1. Mindfulness and relaxation: Birdwatching requires patience and stillness, which can help reduce stress and provide a form of mindfulness. Observing the behaviors and movements of birds can be a meditative experience that helps you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
2. Educational: Birdwatching is a great way to learn about different bird species, their habits, behaviors, and how they interact with their environment. This can be particularly beneficial for children as it can foster an interest in nature and science.
3. Physical activity: Birdwatching often involves walking or hiking, which is a great form of low-impact exercise.
4. Connects you with nature: Spending time outdoors observing birds can foster a deeper appreciation for nature and wildlife and can instill a sense of environmental stewardship.
5. Social: Birdwatching can be a social activity that allows you to connect with other bird lovers, either through local birdwatching groups or online communities.

Guide to Assembling and Painting a Simple Birdhouse

Materials Needed

• Untreated wooden planks or a pre-cut birdhouse kit
• Saw (if you’re cutting your own wood)
• Sandpaper
• Wood glue or screws
• Paint and paintbrushes
• A drill for creating the entrance hole and air vents
• Clear varnish (non-toxic)

Steps

1. Cut your wood (if not using a kit): You will need five pieces in total – one for the base, two for the sides, and two for the front and back. The front piece should have a hole in the middle for the birds to enter. The size of the hole will depend on the type of birds you want to attract.
2. Sand your pieces: Once cut, sand each piece of wood to smooth out any rough edges. This step makes the birdhouse safer for birds and easier for you to paint.
3. Assemble the birdhouse: Attach the sides to the base using wood glue or screws. Then, attach the front and back pieces. Leave the roof piece unattached for now so you can access the inside.
4. Paint the birdhouse: Paint your birdhouse with your desired design. It’s best to use non-toxic paint to ensure the safety of the birds.
5. Apply clear varnish: Once the paint is dry, apply a coat of clear, non-toxic varnish to help protect the paint and wood.
6. Attach the roof: Once everything is dry, attach the roof to the birdhouse.
7. Mount the birdhouse: Choose a quiet, safe spot in your yard and mount your birdhouse on a pole or hang it from a tree branch.

Creative Designs and Themes for Grandparents and Grandkids

1. Garden theme: Paint the birdhouse to mimic a mini garden. You could paint flowers, butterflies, or bugs.
2. Seasonal themes: Decorate the birdhouse based on the season – for example, autumn leaves for fall, snowflakes for winter, or bright suns for summer.
3. Favorite book or movie: Paint characters or scenes from the grandchild’s favorite book or movie.
4. Pattern design: Use tape to create geometric designs, stripes, or other patterns. This can be a fun way for children to experiment with shapes and colors.
5. Bird portraits: Research the types of birds that frequent your area and paint portraits of them on the birdhouse. This can be a great learning experience for the child.
6. Family portraits: For a more personal touch, the grandparent and grandchild could paint portraits of each other or the entire family on the birdhouse.

Supplies

6 Wooden Birdhouses

If you want to save time and have all of your materials together, this kit – which comes with six birdhouses – is an excellent option!

Acronde Wooden Birdhouse Creative Wooden Hanging Bird House for Small Bird 

If your grandkids (or you :P) are too impatient to build and want to get to decorating, you may want to purchase a premade, ready-to-paint birdhouse.

Caliart Acrylic Paint Set With 12 Brushes, 24 Colors

Since your birdhouse will hang outside, make sure to use weather-proof acrylic paint that can withstand the elements.

Conclusion

Doesn’t making a birdhouse sound like the perfect way to spend a day with your grands? Trust me, it is, AND it is an activity that you can enjoy for years to come. (In my opinion, that’s the best kind!)