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“Hey! That’s my podcast!” That was my three-year-old, talking to his older sister when she grabbed the iPad
Yes, my toddler is a podcast junkie. We all are in this family.
My husband and I have been listening to podcasts longer than we’ve been married. Podcasts have seen me through deployments, depression, anxiety – they’ve even become a staple of my spiritual life.
It is my genius spouse, however, who figured out that if podcasts are such a powerful motivator and lifestyle aid for us, why shouldn’t they do the same for kids?
The good news is there are a ton of kid-friendly or family-friendly podcasts out there. Here are some family favorites that we’ve enjoyed on long car trips, that my kids listen to while they do chores, or even to fall asleep.
Myths & Legends (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Stitcher)
This one definitely falls more in the “family-friendly” category than the “kid-friendly” one. While Myths & Legends is a terrific way to introduce your kids to Greek myths and other important stories from cultures all over the globe, it might not be for everyone. The host, Jason, always begins with a warning for any content or thematic elements that might be inappropriate for younger listeners. However, if you have older kids, or are comfortable explaining how and why Zeus is able to impregnate so many mortal women (and animals), this one is an entertaining and often very funny listen!
Story Pirates (Apple and Google Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, and Google Play)
My husband and I are huge comedy nerds. So imagine how delighted we were to find out there is an improv podcast for kids. This one is decidedly in the “kid-friendly” category, but with frequent special guest stars from the worlds of TV, music, comedy, and movies that grown-ups will definitely recognize. Each week, these talented performers take a story idea suggested by a young listener and come up with fun musical radio plays that kids will find hilarious.
Wow In The World (Apple and Google Podcasts and Spotify)
Wow In the World is an NPR science podcast for kids. Episodes are typically about 10 minutes in length and can make great supplements for school-at-home or summer learning. That may come in handy right now for homeschooling!
The Past and The Curious (Soundcloud and Apple Podcasts)
One description reads, “Reminiscent of the TV show Drunk History (minus the alcohol).” If that doesn’t sell you on this history podcast for kids, I guess we can still be friends. I’ll probably be able to love you in a platonic, theoretical way, but I won’t actually like you if that makes sense? I kid, of course.
If your kids are fans of the Who Was? show on Netflix, you may want to give The Past and The Curious a listen!
Podcasts & Kids: A Perfect Pair
The era of the family gathered around the radio with toys and books can be updated for the 21st century, with parents and kids gathered around Alexa laughing at improv comics.
With PCS season looming, podcasts may be just the thing to give both kids and parents a break during car trips, hotel stays, and plane rides. Even if you’re staying put this summer, you’re likely looking at a long period of time with continued stay-at-home orders or lockdown. Podcasts can be an enriching way to prevent boredom, stimulate young minds, and bring the family together!
