15 free kids’ audiobook sources to spark learning and fun

If your child loves to read, it might be worth it to introduce them to audiobooks so they can add listening to books as one of their hobbies. The best part? Many incredible audiobook resources are available for free. Whether you’re searching for the perfect story to wind down at bedtime, an engaging companion for long road trips, or a tool to complement independent reading sessions, this list has you covered. But before we dive into the top resources, let’s explore why audiobooks matter so much for your child’s development.

Why audiobooks matter

Audiobooks do more than just tell a good story. They open doors that can suit every child’s unique needs:

• Foster a love for storytelling: Audiobooks bring characters and plots to life through expressive narration, making stories irresistibly engaging.

• Help struggling readers: For kids who find traditional reading challenging, audiobooks improve fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary without the pressure of decoding words.

• Offer screen-free downtime: In today’s tech-filled world, audiobooks provide a refreshing alternative to screens, helping kids relax and recharge.

With these benefits in mind, let’s explore the top sources to find free audiobooks for kids and how you can make the most of them for your family.

1. Libby

Libby connects your library card to a treasure trove of free audiobooks, including children’s classics, popular series, and new releases. It’s a seamless way to access high-quality content directly from your local library. If you’re unsure whether your library participates, simply check their website or reach out to a librarian — they’re always happy to help. 

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2. Storynory

This website offers a delightful collection of free, original stories and retellings of classic fairy tales. With its lively voice acting and engaging narratives, it’s an excellent choice for younger kids who enjoy vivid storytelling. From bedtime tales to adventure-filled sagas, Storynory has something to spark every child’s imagination. The platform also includes educational content like poems and myths, adding variety and depth to its offerings. 

3. Audible

Audible offers a curated selection of free audiobooks through its Free Listens page. You’ll find classics, popular titles, and hidden gems across genres suitable for kids and families. This is a great way to explore high-quality stories without a subscription. Check back often as the offerings are updated regularly. 

4. Spotify

Yes, Spotify isn’t just for music! It’s a treasure trove for families, offering curated playlists with children’s stories and audiobooks. To get started, search for "kids audiobooks" or explore playlists by theme or age group. Many are designed to entertain and educate simultaneously, making them a win-win. 

5. Hoopla

Hoopla connects your library card to a wide array of free audiobooks, eBooks, and more. Their selection includes many popular children’s series, educational titles, and even music and movies for kids. With no waiting lists and instant borrowing, it’s a convenient way to access entertaining and educational content for your family.

6. Lit2Go

Hosted by the University of South Florida, Lit2Go offers a collection of free audiobooks and accompanying text PDFs, making it an ideal resource for parents and kids. Its catalog spans various genres, including classic literature, poetry, and historical texts, catering to a range of interests and educational needs. Lit2Go also provides readability tools, like grade-level indicators and accompanying text for read-along sessions, which can help parents guide their children’s comprehension and vocabulary development. 

7. Open Culture

This site curates free educational resources, including audiobooks for kids. From Shakespeare’s plays to folk tales, Open Culture's selection covers timeless classics and lesser-known gems. Parents can also find thematic collections, like historical fiction or mythology, to align with their child’s interests or school curriculum. Additionally, Open Culture often links to other reputable sources, providing even more opportunities to discover enriching content. 

8. Loyal Books

Previously known as Books Should Be Free, Loyal Books offers public domain audiobooks like Anne of Green Gables and Treasure Island. What sets Loyal Books apart is its user-friendly search by language or genre, making it easy to find content for young listeners or multilingual families. With downloadable files and an option to stream directly from the site, Loyal Books provides flexibility for listening at home or on the go. 

9. Project Gutenberg Audio Books

This classic online repository includes a wide array of audiobooks in multiple languages. It’s an excellent resource for classic literature, including authors like Mark Twain and Louisa May Alcott. Many of the audiobooks are narrated by volunteers, adding a unique, community-driven touch. If your child is a fan of history or timeless stories, Project Gutenberg Audio Books is worth exploring. 

10. LibriVox

LibriVox offers an extensive collection of free audiobooks from the public domain, read by volunteers from around the world. It includes classics like The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, making it a fantastic resource for introducing kids to timeless literature. The platform’s simple interface and wide selection ensure there’s something for every age group. 

11. BBC Sounds

Listeners can access children’s audiobooks and radio dramas through the BBC Sounds app. The app’s storytelling series often features professional narration and original soundtracks, creating an immersive experience for young listeners. Whether it’s a rainy afternoon or a quiet evening at home, BBC Sounds offers quality content to keep kids entertained. 

12. PBS Kids Read-Along

PBS offers a delightful collection of video read-alongs featuring beloved children’s books. Narrated by celebrities and authors, these engaging videos bring stories to life with animated illustrations and enthusiastic readings. This is a great option for young readers who benefit from visual aids alongside storytelling. 

13. Apple Books’ Free Section

In the Apple Books audiobook store, navigate to “Special Offers” then “Great Free Listens” to find a selection of audiobooks you can download for free. Titles rotate regularly, so it’s worth checking back for seasonal or limited-time offers. Apple Books also integrates seamlessly with family-shared accounts, making it easy for parents to manage what their kids are reading or listening to.

14. Free Audiobook Podcasts

Podcasts are an excellent resource for free audiobooks, offering serialized stories and standalone episodes perfect for kids. Many feature professional narration, immersive sound effects, and engaging storytelling styles. Popular options include Circle Round for folktales, Stories Podcast for bedtime favorites, and Story Pirates for laugh-out-loud adventures. Podcasts can be streamed directly through Apple Podcasts, which provides an easy-to-use platform with curated recommendations and parental controls. 

15. Kids Listen

This nonprofit app features podcasts and audiobooks specifically curated for kids, covering stories, educational content, and more. With an easy-to-navigate interface and curated playlists by age or theme, Kids Listen offers a tailored experience for young audiences. The app also promotes safe, ad-free listening, making it a parent-approved option for quality screen-free entertainment. 

Tips for parents to enhance the audiobook experience

Here are some practical ways to make audiobooks a meaningful part of your family’s routine:

• Create a listening schedule: Use audiobooks during morning routines, car rides, or bedtime to establish a consistent habit and help kids look forward to story time.

• Pair books with activities: Encourage kids to color, build with blocks, or even do simple puzzles while listening for a multisensory experience that fosters creativity and focus.

• Discuss what they hear: Build comprehension and critical thinking skills by asking open-ended questions, like "What do you think will happen next?" or "Why did the character make that choice?"

• Set up a dedicated listening space: Create a cozy, distraction-free zone with pillows or beanbags where kids can immerse themselves in the story.

• Let kids choose the books: Encourage children to pick their own audiobooks based on their interests. This sense of ownership can boost their engagement and enthusiasm.

• Mix it up with genres and formats: Rotate between fiction, non-fiction, and educational content to broaden their horizons and keep the experience fresh.

• Use audiobooks for language learning: Opt for stories in different languages or bilingual audiobooks to introduce new vocabulary and cultural insights.

• Incorporate family time: Choose a book everyone enjoys and listen together during meals or downtime to make audiobooks a shared family activity.

• Take advantage of sleep timers: Many audiobook apps offer timers so the story ends just as your child drifts off to sleep — perfect for bedtime listening.

With these tips, audiobooks can become a cherished part of your family’s routine, offering entertainment, learning, and bonding opportunities all in one.

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This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.