ADHD Families Embrace Subscription Boxes: HelloFresh, KiwiCo, Blue Apron, Home Chef

Anyone who ever clipped out and mailed in a Publisher’s Clearinghouse magazine form or Columbia House Record Club application knows that subscriptions existed long before the Internet. But the kits and crates we know now gained attention with the female-led launch of Birchbox in 2010, and then skyrocketed in popularity during the pandemic. From meal kits like HelloFresh to learning crates like KiwiCo, subscription boxes continue to engage consumers, according to data published by eMarketer.1

For adults and families with ADHD, getting meals and entertainment planned, shopped, and delivered sounds enticing for a number of reasons (most of them related to executive functions). But are they worth it? We got the 4-1-1, below.

“HelloFresh meal kits helped our son, who has sensory challenges around food, become more open to trying new things. Cooking from scratch allowed him to see and smell the ingredients before being asked to try them. Once he had a few meals that he really enjoyed, he was more willing to try new ones, and has learned what ingredients he likes.” — Sue, Michigan

“I have used Blue Apron meal kits in the past, but I’ve developed systems with meal prep since then that make it a lot easier. The Monday to Friday Cookbook taught me how to regularly keep things in hand in a pantry, and how to throw something together easily. (#CommissionsEarned) I used Fresh Direct in NYC a lot for groceries and would keep certain things in standing order.” — An ADDitude reader

“Imperfect Foods allowed me to try new foods and divert waste, but I found it overwhelming to stay on top of cooking after a few weeks (even with the smallest possible box option) and canceled by the end of month three.” — Hannah, Pennsylvania

“Hungry Harvest produce boxes helped us save produce from being tossed, so I feel like I’m doing something good while also being catered to. Affordable and customized, it helps me get fresh food to my doorstep. It was especially useful during the more stringent periods of the pandemic.” — Paulette

“My current favorite is Home Chef, which has a nice variety of options. I usually go for the Oven Ready meals that require very little prep, but they also provide more advanced cooking options should I desire. The best part is the meals are well-sized, tasty, and nutritionally balanced without me having to expend mental energy on deciding what to eat or shop for. And the generally quick and easy cleanup keeps me from dreading cooking at home.” — Dawn, Illinois

“Chewy sends me dog and cat food, treats, and toys so I don’t run out or have to carry heavy bulky bags home. I never have to go and get an emergency bag of dog food anymore. I hate that. Loading kids in the car, dragging them through the pet shop, having to buy them another toy that I’ll accidentally step on and break just makes me angry.” — Tamara, Idaho

“My son gets Little Passports science kits every month. Science is a strength for him, so it feeds something positive. ADHD kids — and especially those with learning difficulties — can really get caught in negative thinking. This is something positive for him.” — Deidra, Florida

“My children were quite interested in KiwiCo and learned some neat things. But… we have found better experiences with renting library kits because they get the same experience without the cost. We also tried Epic Family reading subscription and ABCmouse. Those were interesting at times, and we see the kids reusing them… [but] we’ve had a better experience with book rentals from library apps.” — Amy, Michigan

“Tinker Crates are engaging, non-electronic, and [help my son] learn something new. However, he is not quite at the age to be independent, so it’s a hands-on activity for both of us.” — AJ, Ohio

“Of past subscriptions, the one I miss the most is Once Upon A Book Club. It’s perfect for people with ADHD because they package the book with three to five gifts that you open as you read. It’s a great incentive to keep going. I was introduced to books I love but that I never would have picked for myself. Currently, I have Paletteful Packs, which is an art subscription. I also use Amazon auto ship for some essentials, such as iron pills and Frontline flea treatment.” —Sherry, Texas

“Let’s Make Art is a good, constructive activity box that develops skills. However, it does have a screen component and sometimes my child will get frustrated and walk away mid-project.” — An ADDitude reader

“I like to try new products with IPSY even when I like the products I am currently using. The trial sizes ensure I don’t get bored with my skincare and makeup routine.” — An ADDitude reader

“I subscribe to FabFitFun. It’s a reliable way to ensure I am receiving things that I enjoy and not only focusing on others.” — An ADDitude reader

“With Who Gives A Crap, I don’t run out of toilet paper. I don’t have to remember to buy it at the store, figure out the cost per square inch, or determine what the best kind is. It just magically shows up at my house.” — Tamara, Idaho

“I subscribe to Amazon for products such as bathroom essentials, personal care products, and vitamins. This also reduces the need to store extra supplies in my small living space.” — Daphne, Minnesota

#CommissionsEarned As an Amazon Associate, ADDitude earns a commission from qualifying purchases made by ADDitude readers on the affiliate links we share. However, all products linked in the ADDitude Store have been independently selected by our editors and/or recommended by our readers. Prices are accurate and items in stock as of time of publication.