The 3 Best Educational Toy Subscription Services for Kids of 2021

Toy subscription services are a fun way to get new toys that your kids will love. Some offer rentals that allow you to return toys for new ones every month while others send activity kits for your child to keep. Either way, they're a great way to keep your kids from getting bored while keeping the toy box under control.

There are a few benefits to toy subscriptions. Quite often, the cost is less than buying from the store and it reduces waste from unwanted toys. Many of these toys have educational possibilities geared toward your child's developmental stage as well. Plus, your child gets the joy of receiving a package that's meant just for them. The excitement of that alone is worth it.

The 3 Best Educational Toy Subscription Services for Kids of 2021

Best Overall: Green Piñata Toys
Best for STEAM: KiwiCo
Best for Science: Spangler Science Club

Best Overall: Green Piñata Toys

USA, Utah, Boy (2-3) playing on floor — Tetra Images - Tim Pannell / Getty Images

Green Piñata Toys is a rental service that offers educational toys and peace of mind to parents. Their carefully selected toys are from top manufacturers who "use sustainably-sourced wood or recycled plastic." All are toxin-free and sanitized before they're shipped out as well.

The company sends one box with three to four toys each month. They're chosen based on a curriculum designed for your child's age group, from 6 months to 5 years. If your child falls in love, you can keep a toy for a little longer or buy it at a price comparable to what it sells for at Amazon.

Parents who use Green Piñata rave about the quality of these toys. They also point out that many of the toys are hard to find or high-priced, so the rental is a good value.

Best for STEAM: KiwiCo

little girl cutting paper with scissors — Blend Images - Kidstock / Brand X Pictures / Getty Images

For a subscription price, KiwiCo sends your child a box filled with crafts and activities, all revolving around a theme. Containing at least one project a month, the crate includes all the supplies your child needs to make something fun.

The boxes are centered around STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, and math). From newborns to teenagers, there's a line geared toward kids of every age to learn and discover while playing.

The crates are designed by a team of experts, including parents and educators. The subscription can be customized to fit your needs and each box is a new surprise.

Best for Science: Spangler Science Club

Girl (4-5) looking into microscope — Jenny Elia Pfeiffer / Getty Images

For older kids in the 5 to 12 age range, Spangler's Science Club is a fun option. This is a subscription kit focused on cool science experiments.

Each month, you receive a new STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) box that is filled with fun activities for kids and preteens. There are three levels: the basic kit includes one experiment and the deluxe kit has up to 10 activities.

This is a great opportunity to encourage your child's interest in science. Parental supervision is recommended, which makes this a fun family activity as well.

FAQs

What Is a Toy Subscription Service?

Toy subscription services for kids are recurring shipments of toys and project kits for children of all ages. Some boxes include toys and activities, while others provide materials and directions for kid-friendly projects.

In some cases, the included items are yours to keep, while other companies let you rent the toys until you’re ready for your next set. With rental services, you also have the option of buying any of the toys if your child really likes it.

Subscription plans are usually monthly but some are offered less frequently, on a bimonthly or seasonal basis. Some companies also sell individual boxes for those who want to purchase a gift or sample the subscription.

What Is Included in a Toy Subscription Service?

Toy subscription services include fun and engaging toys and project kits that are selected by educators and parenting experts. The toys and projects are usually educational and stimulating, and some have a STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) focus.

You can customize your boxes so that you get items that are suitable for your child’s age and interests. Some companies focus on eco-friendly toys, so options include products that are made from all-natural materials or recycled plastic.

How Much Do Toy Subscription Services Typically Cost?

The cost of toy subscription services varies depending on the size of the box, number of items, and the quality of the toys. The services typically start in the range of $20 to $25 per box. Most companies offer discounts for longer subscription plans and may offer free shipping for certain plans. The cost for toy rental subscriptions usually includes the cost of shipping the toys both ways.