intro:
People who are kind to animals are usually kind to people as well. Being kind to animals is important for children to understand, so this activity will have them creating simple ornamental bird feeders as an act of kindness.

set up ideas:
Loops, rings or Os—whatever name it may go by, round cereal is the main ingredient in this activity. Bring enough to share a pleasant snack as well!

let's get started

 
People who are kind to animals are usually kind to people as well. Being kind to animals is important for children to understand, so this activity will have them creating simple ornamental bird feeders as an act of kindness.

 
step 1
Provide trays or plates of cereal rings for children to have easy access to the loops.
step 2
Give each child a pipe cleaner and have them thread the cereal onto the pipe cleaner.
step 3
When the pipe cleaner is full of cereal, help the child form it into a loop and twist the ends together.
step 4
Take the children outside and have them hang their cereal circles on trees around the school or neighborhood. Talk about offering food to birds as an act of kindness.

Conversation
Animals are living creatures just like us, so it's important to treat them with respect and kindness. While this activity is for the birds, discuss ways that children can show kindness for other animals, both wild and domestic. When we give animals space and treat them kindly, they are more likely to do the same for us.
Tips and Tricks Tips & Tricks
If materials and time permits, the children can fill 2-3 pipe cleaners and create a more unique shape to place in the tree. The birds may not regard the shape, but it adds an element of creativity.
Follow Up ActivityFollow up Activity
Birds come in a variety of unique shapes, sizes and colors. Have them consider the animals they are feeding and use collage materials to create some unique bird designs.