Discussions

 
We have an old chicken coop on our property that needs work. We are currently cleaning it out and fixing it up. It has a concrete floor and a small fenced yard attached.  
My goal is to get some chickens in there before summer.  
Does anyone have tips or absolute must read books or anything on getting started with chickens. I have never had chickens before. I want both laying and meat chickens...and looking into dual purpose as well.  
If anyone has some ideas about breeds as well. We have a young daughter and a dog so we want something that she could help with as well.  
Also, I want the chickens to be able to go where they please...is that possible? Do they stay in the yard?  
Any help anyone can provide would be greatly appreciated!