Preschool subscription box...good idea?

[Onemandown]

I already run a little stationery subscription box business that I love, I’m a children’s book illustrator and design all the bits that go in. A friend suggested I start a preschool arts/crafts/activity box with her - I used to be a Nursery Nurse and she still works in a preschool so we have lots of knowledge and experience to help us to create the boxes. There are some existing monthly boxes, Toucan, Weekend Box and just wondering if you have any opinions on what is good/bad about the business idea...think it’s a popular thing or had it’s day!?

Not looked too much into those boxes apart from trying to buy a gift. They seemed quite expensive - not saying you don’t get your monies worth. But I’d be more interested in getting less for cheaper.

In theory I like the idea of a pre school subscription box.

But ....

How can you compete price wise with shops such as Poundland or Wilko provide children's craft items for around £1 to £2 each?

Personally I do buy quality felt tip pens, colouring pencils, paint and paper, but for all of my children's other craft bits, which I do not buy monthly anyway I try and purchase as inexpensively as possible.

What would your craft box have in it each month that myself or another parent could not get cheaper?

What would make me want to repeatedly subscribe each month?

Would the contents of the box be suitable for both a just 3 year old and a 4.5 year old? Or would I need to buy two individual boxes for each of my children?

How would I know that the items in your box are safe? Would they meet "UK toy/ kite mark standards?

The cynic in me says you may just sell me craft items from a wholesale supplier, without knowing or testing if the items are safe for two to five year olds.