Although birthdays are meant to be a celebration, sometimes we can’t help but feel we’re like more spending more money on a party than we need to. Instead of paying hundreds of dollars on a new toy that your child will outgrow, put that money into good use by hosting a do-good birthday party for your kid. Lots of parenting websites have great ideas for charity birthday events, and we’ve compiled a list of our favorites. And if you’re worried about your children hating your suggestions, kids are natural givers and would be more than willing to help out people in need.

Bring an animal shelter to your home

There are plenty of pet adoption centers and animal societies that would be willing to bring their animals to private events like a birthday party. The Shaw Family in Portland, Oregon, had their party guests to bring treats, toys, and other donations for the cats and dogs, and you can do the same. They also can be given the option to adopt one of the pets!

Have a couple piggy banks in the party area

At an early age, we teach kids the value of money with allowances and earning extra cash with chores or babysitting. To show them how a little goes a long way, have a couple piggy banks in the party area where they can make their donations. Charities like UnaKids only require one euro per day from their sponsor parents, so any donation from the guests (no matter how small) will be appreciated.

Ask kids to gift wrap their toys

The toys will be given away to charity at the end, but why not make it extra special for the needy kids by keeping them wrapped for them to open? We all find joy in tearing off that gift wrap, and the kids will surely enjoy it as well. Make sure that you mention this instruction in the invitations.

Organize a clothing drive

Take cue from the Multari twins in Hamilton, Ontario, and have your child’s friends and neighbors bring in previously loved and any unused clothes. The girls ask for pajamas every year and have even started their own nonprofit, so depending on your charity, you might have to limit the kinds of garments you accept.