What Highlights Magazine Is and How to Subscribe

Highlights Magazine is a monthly publication for children ages 2 to 12, filled with stories, puzzles, activities, and illustrations. You can subscribe directly through the Highlights website, by phone, or through a third-party subscription service. A standard annual subscription costs around $40 to $50 depending on the edition you choose, though prices vary by the specific product and any current promotions the publisher is running.

The magazine arrives in your mailbox once a month. Highlights publishes several editions — the main Highlights High Five for younger children, Highlights High Five Bilingue for Spanish-English readers, and Highlights for older kids. Each edition is designed for a specific age range, so you'll choose based on your child's age when you set up the subscription.

Key Takeaways

  • You can start a Highlights subscription on the official Highlights website, by calling their customer service line, or through retailers like Amazon.
  • Annual subscriptions typically run $40 to $50, though promotional rates are often available when you first sign up.
  • The magazine arrives monthly in your mailbox, and you choose the edition that matches your child's age group.
  • You can pause, resume, or cancel your subscription at any time without penalty.
  • Digital access to back issues and online activities is often included with a print subscription.

How to Start a Subscription on the Highlights Website

Go to highlights.com and look for the "Subscribe" button, usually located in the top navigation menu or at the bottom of the homepage. Click it to see the available editions and pricing options. Select the edition that matches your child's age — the website shows which ages each edition serves.

Enter your mailing address, email address, and payment information. Highlights accepts major credit cards and PayPal. You'll receive a confirmation email once your order is processed. Your first issue typically arrives within 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the time of year and your location.

Subscribing by Phone or Through Other Retailers

You can call Highlights customer service directly to set up a subscription over the phone. The phone number appears on the Highlights website and on any magazine issue you may already have. A representative will walk you through choosing an edition, confirm your address, and process your payment.

Highlights subscriptions are also sold through Amazon, Walmart, and other major retailers. These third-party subscriptions work the same way — the magazine is mailed to your address monthly — but you manage the subscription through the retailer's account rather than through Highlights directly. Check the retailer's return policy if you need to cancel within a certain window.

Understanding the Different Editions and What's Included

Highlights High Five is for children ages 2 to 6 and focuses on early learning, straightforward stories, and colorful activities. Highlights High Five Bilingue offers the same content in English and Spanish. Highlights magazine itself is for children ages 6 to 12 and includes longer stories, more complex puzzles, and activities that grow with the child's skills.

Most print subscriptions include access to Highlights' online portal, where you can view digital versions of past issues and read printable activities. Some subscriptions also include access to Highlights Hidden Pictures, a digital puzzle game. Check what's included in your specific subscription tier when you sign up, as offerings can vary.

Managing Your Subscription and Making Changes

Log into your account on the Highlights website using the email address you provided when you subscribed. From your account dashboard, you can view your subscription status, see when your next issue ships, update your mailing address, and manage your payment method.

You can pause your subscription for a month or two if you need a break, then resume it without losing your place in the subscription cycle. To cancel, go to your account settings and select the cancel option, or call customer service. There are no cancellation fees or penalties — you can stop at any time.

Gift Subscriptions and Special Offers

Highlights offers gift subscriptions, which you can purchase for a specific length of time — usually 3, 6, or 12 months. The recipient receives a gift announcement in the mail before their first issue arrives. Gift subscriptions are a common option around holidays and birthdays.

Promotional rates are frequently available, especially for new subscribers. These might offer a discounted first year or a reduced rate for a multi-year commitment. Check the Highlights website or sign up for their email list to learn about current offers. Prices and promotions change seasonally, so timing your subscription can sometimes save you money.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to receive my first issue?

Your first issue typically arrives within 4 to 6 weeks of placing your order. Timing depends on when you subscribe during the month and your location. Highlights will send you a confirmation email with an estimated arrival date.

Can I change my child's age group mid-subscription?

Yes. Log into your account on the Highlights website and update your subscription to a different edition. The change usually takes effect with your next issue. You can also call customer service to make the change over the phone.

What if I move and need to update my address?

Update your mailing address in your account settings on the Highlights website, or call customer service. Changes typically take effect within one billing cycle. Notify them as soon as possible so issues don't go to your old address.

Is there a digital-only subscription option?

Highlights primarily offers print subscriptions with digital access included. Some digital content is available through their website and apps, but a print subscription is the main product. Check the Highlights website for current digital offerings.

Can I pause my subscription temporarily?

Yes. You can pause your subscription for one or more months through your account settings or by calling customer service. When you're ready to resume, your subscription picks up where it left off with no additional fees.