What a Highlights Subscription Includes

A Highlights magazine subscription delivers the print magazine to your home on a regular schedule — typically 10 issues per year for the main Highlights High Five edition, or 12 issues per year for Highlights High Five Bilingue (English and Spanish). Each issue contains stories, puzzles, activities, and illustrations designed for children ages 2 to 6, or for Highlights Magazine (the standard edition) ages 6 to 12.

When you subscribe, you pay a single upfront cost that covers all issues for the subscription period. The magazine arrives by mail on a schedule set by the publisher — usually monthly or every other month, depending on which edition you choose. You do not need to renew each month; the subscription runs for the full term you purchased, whether that is 6 months, 1 year, or longer.

Some subscriptions also include access to digital content through the Highlights website or app, though this varies by subscription type and current offers. Check the specific offer details when you purchase to see what digital access, if any, is included with your plan.

Key Takeaways

  • Highlights subscriptions deliver print magazines to your home on a set schedule, with 10 or 12 issues per year depending on the edition.
  • You pay one price upfront for the entire subscription period rather than paying per issue or renewing monthly.
  • Different editions target different age groups: High Five for ages 2–6, and the standard Highlights Magazine for ages 6–12.
  • Some subscription offers include digital access to puzzles and activities online, but this depends on which plan you purchase.
  • Subscriptions are typically cheaper per issue than buying individual magazines at a newsstand.

Subscription Plans and Pricing

Highlights offers several subscription lengths, most commonly 1 year, 2 years, or longer. Pricing varies based on the edition (High Five, High Five Bilingue, or standard Highlights Magazine) and the length of the subscription. A 1-year subscription to Highlights High Five typically costs less than a 2-year subscription on a per-issue basis, meaning longer commitments usually offer a lower price per magazine.

The publisher also runs promotional offers throughout the year — discounted rates for first-time subscribers, bundle deals, or reduced pricing during certain seasons. These offers change regularly, so the price you see today may differ from the price next month. If you are considering a subscription, check the current offer on the Highlights website or through authorized retailers.

You can purchase a subscription directly from Highlights, through gift subscription services, or via third-party magazine retailers. Each source may have different pricing or promotional offers available at any given time.

How to Start a Subscription

To start a Highlights subscription, visit the Highlights website and select the edition and subscription length you want. You will enter your mailing address (where the magazines will be sent) and payment information. The subscription typically begins with the next available issue, though some offers specify when your first issue will arrive.

If you are purchasing as a gift, you will enter the recipient's mailing address instead of your own. Many gift subscriptions include a gift announcement card that arrives before the first issue. The recipient does not need to do anything — the magazines simply start arriving at their address on the publisher's schedule.

After you purchase, you should receive a confirmation email with your subscription details, including the start date and number of issues included. Keep this confirmation in case you need to contact customer service about your subscription later.

What Happens When Your Subscription Ends

When your subscription period ends, the magazines stop arriving. Highlights will typically send you a notice before the final issue letting you know your subscription is about to expire. At that point, you can choose to renew for another subscription period at the current price, or let it end.

If you do not renew, you will not be charged again. There is no automatic renewal unless you specifically choose to set one up. Some subscription offers include an automatic renewal option, but you can turn this off in your account settings or by contacting Highlights customer service.

Managing Your Subscription

Most subscriptions can be managed through an online account on the Highlights website. You can view your subscription status, see when your next issue is scheduled to arrive, and update your mailing address if you move. If you need to pause your subscription temporarily or make other changes, contact Highlights customer service directly — they can usually make adjustments by phone or email.

If an issue fails to arrive, contact customer service with your subscription number and the issue date. They can investigate the delivery and send a replacement if the magazine was lost in the mail. Keep your confirmation email handy so you have your subscription number ready.

Subscription Versus Single Issues

Buying a subscription costs less per issue than purchasing individual magazines at a newsstand or through a retailer. A single issue of Highlights typically costs $4 to $5, while a year-long subscription breaks down to roughly $2 to $3 per issue depending on the plan and current promotions. Over a year, the savings add up significantly if your child reads the magazine regularly.

The trade-off is that you commit to receiving multiple issues on a set schedule. If you want to try the magazine first or are unsure whether your child will enjoy it, buying one or two single issues from a library or bookstore is a lower-risk way to preview it before subscribing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my mailing address mid-subscription?

Yes. Log into your account on the Highlights website or contact their customer service team with your new address. Changes usually take effect with the next issue, though it may take a few weeks for the postal service to reroute your magazines if you do not notify them in advance. Update your address with the post office as well to ensure smooth delivery.

What if I want to cancel my subscription before it ends?

You can cancel at any time by contacting Highlights customer service. Depending on the subscription terms and how much time remains, you may receive a partial refund for unused issues. Contact them directly to discuss your specific situation and what options are available.

Do I get access to back issues or digital archives with a subscription?

This depends on your subscription plan. Some subscriptions include access to digital content and puzzles through the Highlights website or app, but not all plans do. Check your subscription confirmation or the product description when you purchase to see what digital access is included. Back issues are not typically included, but you can purchase them separately.

Can I give a subscription as a gift?

Yes. Most subscription purchases allow you to specify a gift recipient and their mailing address. A gift announcement card usually arrives before the first issue. The recipient does not need to do anything — the magazines simply start arriving at their address on schedule.

How long does it take for the first issue to arrive after I subscribe?

This varies depending on when you subscribe and the current publication schedule. Most subscriptions begin with the next available issue, which can arrive within 4 to 8 weeks. Your confirmation email will specify the expected arrival date for your first issue. If your first issue does not arrive within the stated timeframe, contact customer service.