Best Subscription Boxes for Tweens that Foster Creative Thinking

Subscription boxes make the best gifts for tweens and there are dozens of reasons. Not least of which is because it is the gift that keeps on giving. Just when your tween is whining "I'm bored!" a box full of intriguing goodies arrives on their doorstep!

We've searched out the best subscription boxes for tween, ages 9-12, that work to help kids develop their critical thinking and innovative creative skills, like arts and crafts, science, reading and even outdoor adventuring!

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STEM Subscription Boxes

Tinker Crate, is a science and engineering crate that is geared towards kids ages 9 and up. We subscribed to Tinker Crate for many years and absolutely loved it. Each project introduces kids to a different STEM concept, like hydraulics, electric currents, fluids in motion, and aerodynamics. The crate includes everything you need for the project, as well as detailed instructions, an explanation of the scientific concepts and ideas for further investigation. My kids put together a rocket, a glider, a catapult, an hydraulic arm, an irrigation system and more.

Art Boxes

Doodle Crate is an art and craft based box for kids ages 9 and up. Each month introduces a new technique, includes all the supplies needed for the project as well as a detailed handbook with instructions, and further ideas for maker projects. Video tutorials are also included. Past projects have included candle making, weaving, batik, leather work and more.

Adventure Boxes

THiNK OUTSiDE BOX. I love the idea for this box. The THiNK OUTSiDE BOX encourages kids to have screen-free fun outdoors. Each month a box full of 3 – 5 outdoor gear items, reference cards, outdoor education and activities for fun outdoor adventures arrives on your doorstep. The intro box includes a backpack and subsequent boxes are organized around a theme, like first aid, wildlife or navigation. The main subscription is geared towards kids ages 7-16, but a Junior box subscription for kids 4-7 is also available for younger kids who want to get in on the action (and who wouldn't!).

Silverquicken Quest invites kids to use their detective skills and imagination to solve an escape room-type puzzle each month. Each mystery is set within a fantasy story about the secret Silverquicken School. Inside the box are stories, puzzles and clues, as well as fun tools like decoders. The box is aimed at kids ages 9-12 and is designed for your young puzzler to work independently or with others.

Book Boxes

Bookroo has book subscriptions boxes for different age ranges, including a middle grade box perfect for tween readers. Each box includes two high quality middle grade books for ages 9-12. A useful feature of Bookroo is that you can alternate between different box levels, so if your reader also needs chapter books for 7-10 year olds, they can get a few of both. All of the the past boxes have featured books that I would personally recommend.

Comic Crate. For kids who love comic books, Comic Crate is a fun way to encourage them to read. Each monthly box includes 6 brand-new comic books. Parents can select an age-appropriate rating for their child from all-ages to TeenPLUS.

beTWEEN the Bookends is aimed at kids ages 9-13. Each box includes 2-3 books and a variety of themed "lifestyle" items. The items are curated for a gendered girl audience, but of course that doesn't mean the box is only for girls. That said, it's best to keep the targeted audience in mind. Many of the books in past boxes are ones we have read and enjoyed.

Cooking Boxes

Yummly Crate is designed to teach kids ages 6-14 about the science of cooking! Imagine that–a STEM based approach to learning how to cook. Young chefs learn about biology and chemistry all while experimenting in the kitchen and whipping up yummy treats. Each monthly box includes 2-3 recipes, 2 hands-on projects and a zine. Yummly Crate is an excellent choice if you are looking for a subscription box that will also foster family bonding.