Many who raise dual purpose breeds will keep the hens for eggs and use the males for meat. Brooding is a term referring to the raising of baby chicks. Chicks should be kept at a temperature of 90-95 degrees until about six weeks of age. Once chicks are six weeks old, decrease the temperature 5 degrees per week until you reach 70 degrees. Supplemental heat thereafter only if weather temperatures go below 70 degrees.
Chicks are good thermometers.
If they are scattered around the brooding area and are making content sounds they are comfortable. If they are huddled and peeping loudly they need more heat. Water should be available at all times for all poultry. It should be provided in a container that does not allow them to get in the water. Feed rations for chicks is about the same regardless of weather the chicks are raise for meat or egg production.