When I was teaching I was often amazed by how few garden birds my class of eleven year old children could recognise.
Each year the RSPB organise a series of Birdwatch events some of which are directed at schools. These events provide an ideal opportunity to familiarise children with the species of birds that share their local environment.
This year, Big Schools' Birdwatch will take place in the two weeks from 21 January - 1 February 2013. You can carry out a Birdwatch in any hour within those weeks.
The RSPB provide a range of resources geared to different age groups from the under fives to fourteen year olds.
When working with younger children who may soon lose interest and would be unable to sit a watch for a full hour you could organise small groups of children with an adult to 'work' in short shifts.
Schools entering results of surveys will be entered into a draw and have the chance to win a prize for there school too.
If you are a parent and would like to take part in a Bird Watch event then you could enter the Big Garden Birdwatch with you child. This takes place on the weekend of 27 and 27 January. Again you just need an hour to spare.
If you start observing the birds now you may be able to judge when the birds are most likely to visit and time your activity for the to ensure that the children have something to record.