Need Advice/ Suggestions for Socializing

Hi Everyone!  Am really glad to find you all. There is tons information about socializing ferals on the NET  but a lot seems contradictory.  I've learned that mistakes can cause a BIG set back.  Like Bigdogmom, I have 3 (older) feral kittens a couple of months old that were born under our deck.  They're inside now, in their own room but are given run of the house ( 1 floor - cottage).  I'm Mom now but am trying to get them used to other people as well.  My question is:  how can I pick them up & pet them?  I figure that's the next step.  Any suggestions would be appreciated.

I am new to this as well but I also am caring for older feral kittens right now and have been able to pick them up and pet them. I am no expert but I can give you some tips that worked for me.

First of all, I would keep them in a small room until they are more socialized if possible. I doubt you'll get anywhere near them if they are running around your entire house. Once you are able to sit next to them and get closer it would be a good time to pet them. It helps if they are  sleepy (usually during the day) or if they are completely pre-occupied with food. I've had some luck taking a spoon of baby food (chicken, turkey or beef and gravey) and getting their attention with that. Once they are devouring it just approach them from behind and start rubbing the area between their shoulder blades. It calms them down because it reminds them of their mother. Just make sure you are moving slowly, are sitting low to the ground, and don't approach them from the front. Once you are able to pet them a few times you could try picking them up. The first few times I always pick them up from the scruff of their neck like a mother cat would. You never know how they'll react and they tend to be more calm if you do it this way at first. You can then place the kitten on your lap with a blanket over your legs. Keep petting them or feed them while on your lap. Whenever they get wiggly I place them down on the floor gently, don't push them to the point where they freak out. Everything you do should be positive to them, which usually includes lots of food!

Hope this helps!!