Best for ages seven to ten, if you want your child to handle the bird.
Before you commit Do your homework before choosing a breed. Although parrots seem like they’d be great fun, they’re too aggressive for kids. Smaller budgies (parakeets) and cockatiels are a safe bet for families, since they’re social and don’t do much damage if they bite. But all birds are a big commitment: They require a lot of attention to keep happy and friendly; they’re messy; and they’ll probably still be around when your kid goes to college. So the question is: Do you want a bird?
After you commit Let your child pet the bird only when you’re holding it. Kids should be warned not to tap on the cages or stick stuff into it.