There’s something extra exciting about getting mail when you’re a kid. In a world full of texts, emails, and screens, seeing your own name on an envelope or magazine can make an ordinary day feel special. Whether it’s a free book, a colorful magazine, or a fun activity packet, these subscriptions give kids something to look forward to checking in the mailbox. Best of all? Many of them are completely free!
Here are some fun free mailings families can sign kids up for, plus a few paid subscriptions for children who absolutely love getting happy mail.
Dolly Parton Imagination Library
One of the most loved free programs for young children, the Imagination Library mails one free book every month to children from birth to age five in participating communities. Founded by Dolly Parton, the program helps build a love of reading from an early age and gives kids something exciting to watch for in the mailbox each month.
Check it out online: Dolly Parton Imagination Library
LEGO Magazine
Kids ages 5–9 can receive this completely free magazine filled with comics, building inspiration, activities, puzzles, posters, and sneak peeks at new LEGO sets. The magazine arrives several times a year and has become a favorite “mail day” surprise for many families.
Check it out online: LEGO Magazine
PETA Kids Magazine
Animal-loving children may enjoy the PETA Kids magazine, which focuses on kindness to animals through games, activities, recipes, and stories. It’s geared toward elementary-aged kids and encourages compassion in a kid-friendly way.
Check it out online: PETA Kids Magazine
Netflix Family Magazine
Netflix has offered free family magazines packed with crafts, games, recipes, stickers, and activities inspired by popular kid-friendly shows and characters. Availability varies, but families can often request print copies or access digital versions online.
Check it out online: Netflix Family Magazine
The Last Kids on Earth Fan Club
Fans of the popular book series by Max Brallier can find printable activities, exclusive content, games, and fan extras tied to the zombie-filled adventure world. It’s a fun way for young readers to stay connected to a favorite series between books.
Check it out online: The Last Kids on Earth Fan Club
American Girl Catalog
While it’s technically a catalog and not a traditional magazine, kids absolutely LOVE flipping through the American Girl catalog when it arrives in the mail. Many parents remember circling dream doll outfits and accessories as kids themselves, and today’s children still enjoy paging through the colorful books full of dolls, accessories, playsets, and stories. Families can request the catalog for free online.
Check it out online: American Girl Catalog
The ‘hood Birthday Club
If you live in the Sioux Falls Area, sign up for our FREE Birthday Club! Not only will you receive emails with discounts and freebies, but you can also sign up to receive a special mailed gift from our Birthday Club Sponsor, Prairie Farms! Your kiddo will get a small package in the mail for their birthday!
Check it out: ‘hood Birthday Club
Other Free Mail Kids Might Enjoy
- Library reading club mailers and summer reading rewards
- Local zoo or museum kids clubs
- Seed catalogs for young gardeners
- Church or faith-based kids magazines
- Store birthday clubs that send coupons or birthday cards
- Kids workshop mailers from home improvement stores
If Your Kids REALLY Love Mail…
Some families discover that once kids start getting mail, they never want it to stop! If your child absolutely lights up at the mailbox, these paid subscriptions can also be fun options:
- Highlights Magazine
- Ranger Rick
- National Geographic Kids
- KiwiCo activity crates
- Little Passports
- Cricket Media magazines
- Minecraft Magazine
- Sticker clubs, craft boxes, and STEM activity subscriptions
Sometimes the smallest things create the biggest excitement, and a simple magazine or catalog in the mailbox can become a highlight of a child’s week. These subscriptions are a fun way to encourage reading, creativity, and curiosity—while bringing back a little of the joy of good old-fashioned mail.
