There are several things to unpack here... first off HE works really well in controlling devices - so motion sensors, contact sensors (doors etc), light switches etc. By default everything runs locally so as long as you have power to the hub and devices then you have automation. No internet required and will run as long as your hardware holds out. Because of the flexible design (Hub Mesh, custom apps/drivers) you can add on things as needed - like HomeBridge or other systems.
The Ring and Blink both have cloud requirements so are subject to possible change in the future.. They are great for security etc but do not offer the fined grained control via rules etc that HE has..
As far as "Dad" detection - that requires some thought as to how you want to detect - door open at a certain time in the AM then wait for another within a given time, maybe based on mode (away or home). Contact sensor for the door, motion sensor maybe.. You might be able to stick a Z-wave motion sensor in the newspaper cubby (if it's plastic) to get an alert when the paper is delivered.. Z-Wave device communicates on a lower frequency so should go further than Zigbee but it depends on where your hub is in your house etc etc.
