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Had your fill of the same old kids’ movies and shows on repeat? Well, maybe it’s time to switch gears and dive into a whole new realm of entertainment with podcasts. These audio adventures will not only have your little ones giggling, absorbing knowledge, and clamoring for more, but even grown-ups won’t be able to resist tuning in on the fun.
Get ready to hit the subscribe button and embark on a journey of imagination and discovery with the best podcasts for kids and parents. But before you press play, Matt Gilhooly, a teacher, podcast consultant, and host of The Life Shift Podcast, shares some expert tips for parents to remember when selecting podcasts for kids.
What should parents consider when selecting podcasts for kids?
With a multitude of podcast options available, parents need to carefully consider several aspects before selecting a podcast for their children. One crucial factor, according to Gihooly, is to assess the source or production team responsible for the preferred show.
“Search for familiar and reputable names,” he says. “A quick web search will give you the context to determine if its morals and outlooks are in line with yours.”
Gihooly also recommends considering reviews and ratings of podcasts, especially those from other parents, and highlights the significance of the show’s longevity, as a large archive can offer hours of learning or entertainment.
Finally, he emphasizes the importance of episode length matching a child’s attention span when they’re interested in a topic.
Are podcasts safe for kids?
“Many podcasts are safe for kids to listen to, with more and more being added to platforms daily,” says Gihooly. “However, there are significantly more podcasts designed for adults only. Therefore, parents or guardians need to play a role in this activity to help children find (and download) appropriate content to enjoy,” he adds.
Where can I listen to the best podcasts for kids?
If you’re unsure where to find the best podcasts for kids, Gihooly recommends starting with the ‘Kids & Family’ section on Apple Podcasts, which, he says, features recommended shows in subcategories such as ‘education for kids’ and ‘stories for kids.’
On the other hand, Spotify’s ‘Kids & Family’ section offers music playlists and podcasts but lacks a dedicated section exclusively for kids’ podcasts.
However, Gihooly notes that Smalltalk is specifically designed for children’s podcasts, making it the best platform for finding kids’ podcasts. “Smalltalk organizes podcasts by age group, making it an excellent choice for parents who want to avoid sifting through the extensive podcast options on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.”
The best podcasts for kids in 2024
Story Seeds
The Story Seeds podcast, suitable for children aged six to 12, allows young writers to collaborate with renowned children’s authors to explore their story-writing creativity. Hosted by Betsey Bird, the podcast features 35-minute episodes where kids can turn their stories into reality.
Authors such as Tracey Baptiste, Chris Grabenstein and Dan Gutman have appeared on the show, and children can submit their tales to the Story Seeds hotline for a chance to see their creations come to life.
Listen to Story Seeds on their website, the Story Seeds YouTube channel, Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Story Pirates
Just like StorySeeds, the Story Pirates podcast reinvents storytelling by transforming kids’ stories into engaging skits and comedies. Since its inception in 2013, this podcast has been on a rocket ship to success, amassing over 65 million downloads and a rapidly growing fanbase.
With episodes averaging around 40 minutes, it’s arguably one of the best podcasts for kids aged five to 12.
Listen to Story Pirates on Apple Podcasts, the Story Pirates website, iHeartRadio and Spotify.
Wow in the World
Guy Raz and Mindy Thomas, the talented duo behind the Wow in the World, provide listeners with an engaging and informative podcast experience.
Each episode, lasting between 12 to 20 minutes, delves into the world of science and technology, covering a wide array of topics such as mummified bees, AI, cellular tattooing and more. The best part? With a total of 300 episodes to choose from, there’s always something new and exciting to learn.
Listen to Wow in the World on Tinkercast, or listen to episodes ad-free with Wondery+, Wondery+ Kids on Apple Podcasts, or Amazon Music with a Prime membership or Amazon Music Unlimited subscription.
Tumble
Tumble, another science-themed podcast for kids aged eight to 12, offers a unique blend of education and entertainment that the entire family can enjoy. It is hosted by Lindsay Patterson and Marshall Escamilla and each episode clocks in at 20 minutes long.
Topics covered on this podcast range from space and astronomy to surprising facts about animals, including the science of whiskers.
Listen to the Tumble Science Podcast for Kids on various platforms, including Soundcloud, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Podcasts.
Circle Round
Circle Round offers a delightful variety of folktales from all over the world that are adapted into a delightful sound-and-music-rich format, which is why it makes our list of the best podcasts for kids.
Hosted by public radio host, Rebecca Sheir, Circle Round boasts a collection of 200 episodes that are meticulously crafted to last between 10 to 20 minutes, making it perfect for young listeners with shorter attention spans.
Listen to Circle Round on various platforms, including WBUR’s Circle Round website, NPR and Amazon Music.
The Radio Adventures of Doctor Floyd
Looking for a podcast that’s part time-traveling adventure, part history lesson? Well, The Radio Adventures of Doctor Floyd is just that! Created by Grant Baciocco and Doug Price, this show follows the escapades of the World’s Most Brilliant Scientist, Dr. Floyd, as he battles his arch-nemesis, Dr. Steve, across the ages.
Packed with old-time radio vibes and educational content, it’s a hit with both kids and adults. Fun fact: this professionally produced audio drama podcast has been entertaining listeners since 2004 and boasts six epic seasons.
Listen to The Radio Adventures of Doctor Floyd on their website, Apple Podcasts, iHeart Radio, Spotify, and Pandora.
Peace Out
Kids today juggle a lot — school, homework, friends, and a bunch of after-school activities. So, if you want to help your child unwind without staring at a screen, Peace Out is one of the best podcasts for kids to add to their must-listen list.
With five seasons available, each episode features a 15-minute guided relaxation story that incorporates social-emotional skills, mindfulness exercises and yoga poses.
Listen to Peace Out on various platforms, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and the Sensical TV app by Common Sense.
Like You
Join host Noah Glenn on Like You, a podcast that’s all about giving kids the tools and ideas they need to support their social-emotional and mental health.
Each episode is short and sweet, running for 15 to 25 minutes, and covers a range of topics, including exploring feelings, encouraging self-esteem, mindfulness practices and relieving anxiety. Plus, it’s geared towards kids between five and 12, so this podcast is perfect for family listening.
Listen to Like You on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and its official website.
Brains On!
If your little one is a budding science whiz, this Webby-winning podcast will tickle their brain cells. With host Molly Bloom at the helm and a new kid co-host each week, it’s a deep dive into the mind-bending world of science, tackling everything from space and tech to all the quirky questions kids ponder, like “Do plants sleep” or “Why do we like sugar so much.”
Brains On! has a total of 100 episodes to choose from, and each episode ranges from 20 to 35 minutes. While Common Sense Media recommends it to eight-year-olds and above, some smart cookies might crack it even earlier!
Listen to Brains On! on the podcast’s official site, or tune in via Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and radio.net.
Smash Boom Best
From the creative minds behind Brains On! comes Smash Boom Best, a podcast encouraging kids of all ages to learn the art of debate. It is hosted by Molly Bloom and Sanden Totten and features 30-minute debates on a range of child-friendly topics, including lemonade versus hot chocolate, baths versus showers and dogs versus cats.
The listeners, acting as the audience, are then allowed to vote on which argument is more convincing at the end of each episode. Who knows? Even adults might find themselves enjoying it too!
Listen to Smash Boom Best on the podcast’s official website, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and radio.net.
But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids
Rounding out our list of best podcasts for kids is But Why, a show that combines the talents of award-winning journalist Jane Lindholm and producer Melody Bodette to offer a fun and engaging experience for both children and parents.
From unraveling the mysteries of the human body to serving up surprising animal facts and current events, this podcast offers a smorgasbord of engaging content, all seasoned with questions straight from the inquisitive minds of kids. Each episode of But Why varies in length, ranging from 24 to 53 minutes, and according to Common Sense Media, is recommended for kids six and above.
Bonus: After each episode, kids can find learning guides on the podcast website for post-listening and educational fun — no parent can say no to that!
Listen to But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids on various platforms, including Audible, Apple Podcasts and Small Talk FM.
Experts
- Matt Gilhooly, teacher, podcast consultant, and host of The Life Shift Podcast
