I don't know why I'm asking this but do kids get dove tricks or do they not know what hapened?

Do you mean like "What just happend"? Or know how you did it?

What just happened.

Magicguy67 I have used doves in my kid show for years to older kids (6years and up ) it is quite magical, to younger children any live animal in the show is magical
topper

My assesment:

1. its either theyre too young to comprehend (babies).
2. youre too technical.
3. the effect, method, or your presentation is not that strong or entertaining for them.
4. theyre too shocked, dazzled, spellbound or amazed to even react.
5. or the kids are just very shy.

kids are really our toughest audience, and some of them are not that keen on the flashy stuff, theyd tell you straight to your face that your show is boring, they've seen it before, they know how its done (even when they don't) or worse you stink, suck, etc. etc.

stand up comics are funny for grown-ups, but not for kids
clowns are funny for kids, but when the grown-ups see that the kids find them funny. you get work.

like my uncle lou always say;

"always go by the KISS rule..."

K-eep
I-t
S-imple
S-tupid

if it still doesn't work? retire the birds and go get a rabbit instead.

you cant please everybody

Well said rhinomax!

I feel the same way. They may not follow any long plots. They don't care about the method. But they when they see a bird you have their attention. However, some kids (or adults) may actually be frightened. Most kids will enjoy though!

<quote>
kids are really our toughest audience, and some of them are not that keen on the flashy stuff, theyd tell you straight to your face

</quote>

I just completed a school show (it was an aftercare generic magic show) and I was on stage putting my stuff away.

Kids were coming up asking questions as they normally do.

One little boy came up and says, "My clothes smell." "What?" I replied. "My clothes smell." he said again. I guess he got me cause I said, "Why?"

"Cause your magic stinks!" he stated.

Oh, no I thought. I put my stuff away then, to regain my self-esteem and confidence, I went around the cafateria asking groups of kids how they liked the show and what tricks they enjoyed the most. I left happy.

John

Ha ha ha, like I said john. "you cant please everybody"