What Are Subscription Boxes for Kids
First, let me say that I’m not a big advocate for buying tons of things for the kids as a way to teach them new skills. There are times, however, when it’s worth considering spending “extra money” on tools that could make a meaningful difference in your child’s learning career. Notice the quotations on “extra money,” so you may want to review this article with an accountant’s sharpened pencil when reading on.
Finding tools that captivate children's attention while nurturing a learning environment is akin to discovering a hidden treasure. Enter the world of educational subscription boxes, a treasure trove that arrives at your doorstep, designed to enchant young minds with the thrill of exploration and discovery. Let's unbox these fun deliverables, show why they might be an invaluable resource for parents, and discuss where to find the ones that will set your child on a path of fun and learning.
What Are Educational Subscription Boxes?
Imagine a box filled with puzzles, books, crafts, and activities curated by experts to entertain and educate. That's the essence of an educational subscription box. These thematic, age-appropriate collections are delivered monthly or quarterly and are designed to spark curiosity, enhance learning, and develop various skills. Each box invites learning and exploring, from science experiments and math games, to art projects and history adventures.
Why Should Parents Consider These Boxes?
Tailored Learning: These boxes cater to a wide age range, from toddlers to teens, and often can be customized to your child's age and interests. This personal touch ensures that the activities are neither too easy nor too challenging, striking the perfect balance for effective learning.
Convenience: Life can be hectic, and finding time to gather materials for educational activities can be time consuming and difficult. Subscription boxes solve this by delivering everything you need right to your door. No more last-minute runs to the store for that elusive craft supply!
Engagement: Screen time is becoming the go-to entertainment for many children, but these boxes offer a hands-on alternative to keep them engaged for hours and build a love for learning and creativity. When it is the right fit for your child, you’ll notice how excited they are when their box arrives.
Bonding Time: These boxes provide a unique opportunity for family bonding. Working on projects together strengthens relationships and allows for memorable learning experiences.
Continuous Learning: Regular deliveries mean there's always something new to look forward to, keeping children excited about learning and exploring new topics.
Where to Find Educational Subscription Boxes
Here are some notable places to start your search: I am not affiliated with any of these companies, and am not endorsing any particular product; however, these are worth checking out if you are considering a subscription. I’ve included prices estimations at the time this article was written; however, do your own investigations, as costs are subject to change.
KiwiCo: Renowned for its STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) kits, KiwiCo offers boxes for different age groups, ensuring that the projects are age-appropriate and engaging. Kits start at $17 month, and vary depending upon age and subject matter.
Little Passports: If you're looking to introduce your child to geography, cultures, and world adventures, Little Passports specializes in boxes that explore the world's wonders. Kits cost anywhere from $18-$24 per month depending upon your subscription.
Green Kid Crafts: For the eco-conscious family, Green Kid Crafts focuses on STEM and creativity through eco-friendly and sustainable materials. Kits arrive monthly, and you can get started at $34 for one month. Discounts are offered for longer subscriptions, i.e. 12 months for $347.
Lovevery: Designed by child development experts, Lovevery offers play kits for babies and toddlers. These kits aim to support learning through play in the critical early years. Kits range from $80-120 and depending upon the age of your child, they arrive every 2-3 months. This company also provides parent training video instruction.
Bookroo: For little bookworms, Bookroo delivers curated books, inviting a love for reading and storytelling. You can choose how often you want books to arrive and boxes cost between $19-$30, depending on the length of your subscription.
Embarking on the Journey
As a kid, getting something just for you in the mail is incredibly fun and exciting. Educational subscription boxes are more than just a monthly gift; they're a passport to a world of learning and adventure. They offer a convenient and engaging way to explore new concepts and support children's development in a fun and interactive manner. Whether your child is a budding scientist, an aspiring artist, or an eager explorer, there's a subscription box that can spark a lifelong love of learning.
All that fluff for a Craft Kit? Yes, they’re crafting kits at heart, so nothing you can’t dream up on your own if you have the time.
Kimberley Arnett-DeSimone, a career pediatric occupational therapist in Huntersville, North Carolina, authored this post.
