Following on from the idea "introduce your child to an "invisible friend" here's another one to get children involved in making their very own "changes".

Perhaps your child has allergies or the landlord refuses to budge and allow them a pet.

Source out the nearest animal shelter and encourage your child to set up a separate money box to provide food and shelter for their newly acquired "adopted" animal/s. If your child is able, take them to visit the shelter and find out if they are permitted to visit on a regular basis to deliver their donations of money or food or even volunteer there.

Come back and tell us your story and post some pics.