If you have a kid who loves animals, encouraging them to help an animal shelter can be a fantastic way to keep them busy while they learn the value of giving to their community. Here are six ways kids can contribute to animal shelters.

1. Make toys. Just like any other pets, shelter dogs and cats love to play, and toys can get pretty worn out after a while. As a result, shelters need a constant supply of toys, and handmade toys make perfect donations. Barkpost.com has a great list of toys that can be made from household items, such as old t-shirts.

2. Take photos. Many people go to a shelter to adopt a pet after seeing a cute picture online, and taking shelter animals out of their kennels for a photo shoot is a perfect way for a budding photographer to hone their skills while increasing a pet’s chance of adoption.

3. Volunteer. Sometimes the most exciting way for a young animal lover to help shelter animals is to actually visit the shelter and see the animals firsthand. Many shelters encourage volunteers to walk dogs or help with other simple tasks, but some require that an adult accompany children.

4. Spread the word. Many prospective pet owners head straight to the pet store, not realizing that there are lots of animals in shelters that would love to have a home. Kids who hear about shelter animals from their peers and get excited about helping are likely to tell their parents, increasing the number of volunteers and donations as well as the number of adoptions from shelters.

5. Have a birthday party. Kids often choose a party theme that reflects their interests, and a party at a shelter is perfect for a child who loves animals. Like many other venues, some shelters host parties for a fee, providing pet-themed activities and allowing children to interact with shelter animals. Kids can also request that their party guests bring pet food or other supplies to donate in lieu of gifts.

6. Make cards. Some shelters like to send thank you cards to people who adopt pets, and handmade cards are a great way to commemorate an adoption and thank someone for giving their new pet a forever home.

The needs of individual shelters vary, so be sure to contact your local shelter to find out the best way for your child to help and to learn about any other programs they might offer.