This Is The Perfect Subscription Service For Young Readers
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As a parent, I can never say no to books. And many parents have a similar approach to help encourage reading.
A 2019 study found that parents who read up to five books a day to their children often give them an academic edge. Those children will enter kindergarten having heard around 1.4 million more words than their peers who don’t have the same exposure to literature. While five books a day is a lofty goal for many parents, it becomes easier with a wider selection at hand. And, that’s where companies like OwlCrate Jr can help.
What’s OwlCrate Jr?
You might have heard of OwlCrate before. The company, which opened its doors in February 2015, sends themed boxes to children to help encourage their love of reading. OwlCrate Jr is its division for slightly younger readers between the ages of 8 and 12 years old. Great as a gift to celebrate enrollment in middle school, the OwlCrate Jr boxes have a different theme every month.
What’s included in an OwlCrate Jr box?
Each box includes a brand new hardcover book, a second book or activity, a mini-magazine, a trading card, and other fun items that fit the theme of the month. Past box themes have included “Mythical Beasts,” “Schools of Wonder,” and “Campfire Stories.”
While it’s nice to have a surprise box, parents can also order past boxes they may have missed prior to subscribing. When you purchase a box from a previous month, you’ll know exactly what you’re getting ahead of time, which might help you figure out whether or not you want to take the plunge with a subscription.
Each box also includes a signed book or bookplate and an exclusive letter from the author. Being able to learn more about the person who wrote the story can serve as an extra reward. It might even encourage your child to write their own stories to share with friends and family.
How does an OwlCrate Jr subscription work?
Like with many subscription services, you get a discount by purchasing more boxes in advance:
- 1-month subscription: $29.99/box
- 3-month subscription: $28.99/box
- 6-month subscription: $27.99/box
Shipping within the U.S. is $8.99 per box.
Boxes ship every month between the 15th and 20th. Subscriptions auto-renew unless they’re canceled. So if you realize the service isn’t fully wowing your child, all you need to do is sign into your account on the OwlCrate Jr site, go to the tab that says “My Subscriptions” or “Manage Subscriptions,” and cancel.
OwlCrate Jr also sells a bunch of other goodies for those who love to read.
For fans of Charlotte’s Web, there’s this adorable tote bag that pays homage to the classic that was penned by E. B. White. It’s great for carrying more books or even using it to hold supplies while out and about with your kids.
This Kamigoroshi candle would also make for a great gift. Initially included in the October 2021 'Wield Your Blade' OwlCrate box, you can buy it at their store without purchasing the full box itself.
Perfect to double up as a trick-or-treat bag, this zombie tote sends a message that’s true year-round. With so many cool accessories, OwlCrate Jr’s shop may be a perfect untapped resource for gifts for the bibliophile in your life.
But while the accessories are cool, the books are truly the star of the show.
Try OwlCrate Jr now for 15% off
Right now, you can get 15% off any subscription plan with the code FATHERLY15. While waiting for your box to arrive, you can check out the OwlCrate blog, which includes author interviews, quizzes, and more for you and your kid to enjoy together.
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