Parakeets/Parrots There are a wide variety of parakeet and parrot species which may be suitable for kids.  Parrots, especially, can provide hours of enjoyment since most of them are highly intelligent and can be taught words or phrases by the kids. 

It is important to note, however, that some parrots available today have been illegally caught and traded.  Acquiring a young parrot from a breeder may be more suitable since it can be trained more easily.  Parrots can be costly; a steel cage and numerous toys would be needed to prevent the parrots from becoming bored.  Food, water and bath dishes are required as well.  

The other problem is the beak—a parrot can crack nuts with it, so just think what it can do to a child’s finger if you are not careful. A safer choice is the smaller parakeet, but as with all birds, it is important to ascertain if they are healthy, show any idiosyncrasies that may signal a problem, and have been properly cared for by the breeder.