The Importance of Routine

Establishing and following a good routine is a very important part of being an Eckie parent. Our feathered kids thrive on routine, structure and consistency. Following a routine allows them the comfort of knowing when they will receive meals, have play time and be put to bed.

Set feeding times will help ease your Eckie into their new routine. Ask your breeder what times they feed their kids and try to follow this. Many people feed their Eckies twice to three times a day if their schedule allows. Parrot Haven fledglings are fed at 9am, 2pm then again at 6pm. Our clients continue this routine after they arrive. Our kids like the familiarity of their feeding times and this helps the settling-in process. Delegate a time for play, cuddles and quiet time and follow this as closely as possible until your Eckie becomes accustomed to the routine.

Each Eckie is going to respond differently to their new surroundings. Eckies who are outgoing and gregarious may sulk for weeks, while quiet, introverted kids may adapt within a matter of days. It is virtually impossible to predict their reaction, but the last thing we want is to make them feel unloved by being disappointed in them. Eckies are incredibly astute at reading body language and picking up on our feelings. If they feel like a failure, it will further delay the settling-in process and create mistrust and resentment.

Try to do everything you can to make your kids first few weeks at home as calm and stress free as possible. Look at life through your Eckie's eyes and try to empathise with how they may be feeling. This will help you through any tough times and give you the encouragement you need to keep persevering.