Programs for children

Programs for children

At MCHS we know how important it is to teach compassion and respect for animals beginning at a young age. Our children’s programs are designed for children ages 4 to 18.

One of our key goals is to eliminate animal abuse and homelessness by teaching readiness for and care of pets at home, humane interactions with wildlife and other animals, and the special bond between humans and animals. Through these programs, we aim to help children develop a sense of compassion and an understanding about animals and how to respect them.

Children’s programs focus on:

• How to approach animals
• Body language – how to read an animal’s wishes and emotions
• How a pet joins your family, and how to be responsible for a pet

Programs may run from 30 minutes to 60 minutes, depending on the group and the topics of interest. Programs may be tailored to the interests of curriculum of study for the specific classroom or group.  In some cases, the MCHS presenter may bring an animal to demonstrate principles of compassion and care.

Programs may be held at MCHS between the hours of 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. (group sizes are limited, due to space) or at your location in Montgomery County. Programs may be scheduled on weekdays between 10 am and 7:30 pm, and must be scheduled at least 4 weeks in advance.

To apply for a group presentation, please use this form.

For more information, please contact Addie Soares, MCHS Humane Educator, (240) 731-0886.

Service projects

We strongly recommend the completion of service projects as an additional, optional activity for all ages. These projects — such as conducting drives for items on the MCHS wish list — help to reinforce the importance of collaboration between the community and MCHS in caring for the homeless animals in our midst.

Donations may be delivered to MCHS daily between 11 am and 5 pm. No appointment is necessary to drop off your donations. Please be sure to ask for a donation receipt, and complete a visitor form so we can stay in touch with you.

Please coordinate service projects through our Education Director.

Reading to the animals

Children who wish to help but are too young to work with the animals directly (under 18), might be interested in our reading program.

Details available by contacting our Education Director.