Podcasts for kids: An essential guide for parents

Looking for a way to keep your family informed and entertained? How about diving into the world of podcasts? They can be little gems of knowledge and fun all wrapped up in one audio package. With a ton of options out there, it's easy to find something that can pique the interest of curious kids.

An organized list of podcasts for kids

Whether you're road-tripping, winding down for bedtime, or just looking for a screen-free way to engage your kids, the right podcast can open up a world of possibilities. Here’s our curated guide to finding the best podcasts for kids, catering to various interests and age groups.

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For the science enthusiast

• Brains On! Science Podcast for Kids: Produced by American Public Media, this pod is perfect for the younger ones who always ask “why?”

• Tumble Science Podcast for Kids: Explore stories of science discovery with your entire family. Tumble inspires a love for science and has often been referred to as “Radiolab for kids.”

• Reach: A Space Podcast for Kids: This podcast delivers the latest space news in an easy-to-understand format for young astronomers.

For the curious explorer

• Wow in the World: Join hosts Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz on a journey into the wonders of the world around them.

• Earth Rangers: Dive into nature and animal science, through the eyes of wildlife biologist Emma. 

• SpaceTime: Discover the latest space news and discoveries with science journalist Stuart Gary. Suitable for budding astronomers and space enthusiasts.

• I Know Dino: Dinosaur lovers unite with this podcast, featuring interviews with paleontologists and discussions about prehistoric creatures.

For the inquisitive mind

• But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids: Your kids ask the questions and this podcast finds the answers.

• Curious Kid Podcast: Every episode explores a new topic in a fun and educational way, with kids Olivia and Noah, who embark on the “Great Sibling Showdown.”

• Young Ben Franklin: This historical fiction podcast offers a great tool for discussing events and societal change.

• The Past & The Curious: This history podcast for kids is fun, educational, and engaging, exploring kid-friendly topics like the history of underwear and why we have Daylight Saving Time. 

• Smash Boom Best: It's a debate show for kids and families from the makers of “Brain’s On.” Each episode takes two cool things, smashes them together, and lets your child decide which is best.

For creative minds

• Circle Round: This storytelling podcast adapts folktales from around the world, perfect for sparking creativity and imagination in young listeners.

• Story Pirates: World-class actors, comedians, improvisers, and musicians adapt stories written by kids into sketch comedy and musical theater.

• What If World - Stories for Kids: Mr. Eric spins "what if?" questions from kids into fun tales.

• The Alien Adventures of Finn Caspian: A serialized science-fiction story for kids, perfect for those car rides around town or long road trips.

• Ologies: While not exclusively for kids, Ologies covers a broad range of scientific disciplines, from black holes to marine biology, in a fun and accessible way.

For the music lover

• Classics for Kids: Introduce classical music to children through this podcast, featuring composer biographies, music history, and famous classical pieces.

• Noodle Loaf: An interactive music-themed podcast that offers culturally diverse music education for kids, including music-themed games and activities that can be enjoyed at home or on the go.

• Ear Snacks: A delightful podcast from Andrew & Polly, award-winning music makers and the hosts of Ear Snacks. This podcast is packed with thoughtful, catchy tunes and interviews with kids and experts.

• The Music Box: Each episode explores the music concepts using a sound you'll find in real life and a guided lesson through the basics of a related key musical concept. The Music Box is also a great resource for teachers, offering downloadable lesson plans and quizzes corresponding to each show.

• Spare the Rock, Spoil the Child: This playlist-meets-podcast plays indie music for indie kids. It features interviews with musicians, allowing young listeners to connect with the artists behind their favorite songs.

For the money-minded and budding entrepreneurs

• How I Built This with Guy Raz: Guy Raz dives into the stories behind some of the world's best-known companies. How I Built This weaves a narrative journey about innovators, entrepreneurs, idealists, and the movements they built.

• Million Bazillion: From the makers of Marketplace, this podcast covers money basics and news for kids and families.

• The Money JAR: Speaks to young entrepreneurs with stories of who's made it big and how.

• Dream Big Podcast: Boasting big-name guests like Kobe Bryant and Mark Cuban, this interview podcast inspires kids (and adults!) to pursue their passions through action.

• The Kidpreneurs Coach: The podcast that talks about the big business of small business. It's a fun, inspirational listen for kids interested in starting their own ventures.

These podcasts for kids offer endless opportunities for learning and fun, making them an essential resource for parents who want to keep all ages engaged and entertained. Happy listening and learning!