One of the perks of parenthood is getting to play like a kid again. And if you’re looking for new, fun ways for your mini-mes to spend quality time with dad this Father’s Day, then look no further than these all-inclusive subscription kits. It doesn’t matter if dad is handy with a hammer or a spatula, we’ve found options featuring everything from wacky experiments to culinary crafts, delivered right to your door. Think of them as a nice addition to the homemade card.
photo: Cooper & Kid
Cooper & Kid
The Scoop: Touting the motto, “Play Hard. Play Wise. Play with Dad,” Cooper and Kid is the only subscription service specifically designed for dads and kids. Featuring curated projects, books and even recipes, the Cooper Kit includes 6-9 customizable educational activities. With Cooper Kits they may make a mess. They may throw something out a window. They may launch rockets. But one thing’s for certain…they will have fun experimenting and exploring together. It’s the perfect Father’s Day gift for the modern super Dad who can (and does) do it all.
Ages: 5-9
To Order: $65 + shipping per kit with quarterly subscription online at cooperandkid.com. Enjoy free shipping for Father’s Day!
photo: Green Kids Crafts
Green Kid Crafts
The Scoop: Dad will go mad for these awesome hands-on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) experiments. Developed by teachers, crafty moms and STEM experts, the Summer Discovery Series (beginning in June) features awesome educational projects and experiments. Dad will have a blast launching balloon rockets and helping the kids build their very own robot. Subscribe and an eco-friendly Discover Box filled with 3-4 activities will arrive at your doorstep each month, or choose from a variety of individual STEM kits.
Ages: 3-10
To Order: Individual boxes range from $6.95 – $74.95, or subscribe for $19.95/month at greenkidscrafts.com.
photo: Foodstirs
Foodstirs
The Scoop: Mix things up this Father’s Day and have your little chef lend Dad a hand in the kitchen. Foodstirs monthly, at-home food crafting kits help build your child’s culinary confidence while spending quality time with their favorite Gourmet. Created by chefs and tested by kids, each kit includes the recipes, specialty cooking tools and dry ingredients that they’ll need to whip up edible masterpieces. Whether it’s a delicious dinner or celebratory sweet, these simple recipes will make everyone feel like the Iron Chef.
Ages: 5-12
To Subscribe: Individual kits range from $19.99 to $34.99, or choose a 3-month cooking bundle for $94.99 online at foodstirs.com.
photo: Agent Ribbit
Agent Ribbit
The Scoop: Is finding a perfect gift for Dad the ultimate enigma? Don’t fret! Agent Ribbit easily solves this problem. The monthly subscription kit includes everything Dad and his little detectives need to investigate the universe’s greatest mysteries. Created by a scientist and fellow-parent, each kit includes materials for 3-4 STEM projects, plus a short lesson on the science behind the activities. Siblings and friends can join in the scientific excitement with Partner Packs, and there’s even a Pollywog Pack for the budding scientists in the family (i.e. siblings ages 2-3) that includes a “busy” activity that follows the theme.
Ages: 3-9
To Order: Subscription plans start at $22.99/month online at agentribbit.com.
photo: Handy Dad
Handy Dad
The Scoop: Forget the glue and scissors, leave the Popsicle sticks behind and break out the toolbox. Because even if he’s more of a Tim the Tool Man than Bob Vila, the simple projects from Handy Dad can help make any Dad seem like a master craftsman. Created by Todd Davis, a dad, designer and host of the HGTV series “Room Crashers,” each kit includes all the materials Dad and his little tinkerers will need to create awesome projects like Epic Bubbles and Stunt Monsters, plus easy-to-follow directions and ideas for games and activities. No trip to the hardware store required!
Ages: 3 & up (project depending)
To Order: Handy Dad kits are available online for $27-$56 + shipping at handydad.com.
photo: Sproutkin
Sproutkin
The Scoop: Whether it’s before bed, on a rainy Sunday afternoon or while on vacation, if your little bookworms love story time with Dad, you’re sure to find the perfect book in Sproutkin’s extensive digital library. Titles ranging from classic fairytales like The Princess and the Pea to soon-to-be favorites The Tickle Tree are available for individual purchase or via a monthly subscription. FYI: This summer, Sproutkin is introducing its first original e-book, entitled Little Dragon and His Magic Underwear. Written by acclaimed children’s author Jonathan London and illustrated by his son, this whimsical tale is sure to be a literary treat for Dads and kids.
Ages: 2-8
To Order: Download the iPad App and subscribe to Sproutkin’s digital library for $4.99/month or purchase your favorite books individually.
photo: Groovy Lab in a Box
Groovy Lab in a Box
The Scoop: Designed with the older set in mind, transform your home into a fun-filled laboratory with Groovy Lab in a Box. Using the Engineering Design Process your lab assistants will love conducting innovative STEM experiments with their favorite lead scientist (Dad). The “Beyond…in the Box” companion website features instructions on how to divide tasks for team projects so everyone can play an important role in each discovery. From hydroponic gardening to engineering wearable technology, the whole family can put their heads together to design, build and learn together.
Ages: 8 & up
To Order: Single boxes are available from $36.95, or subscribe starting at $23.95/month online at groovylabinabox.com.
Which one will you order for Dad this year? Let us know in the Comments!
—Lauren Hill
