In a world where screens dominate much of children’s entertainment, podcasts offer a refreshing alternative. They stimulate imagination, improve listening skills, and provide educational value — all while keeping kids thoroughly entertained. Whether you’re on a road trip, winding down before bed, or just need a quiet activity, these top kid-friendly podcasts will do the trick.
Here are our top 5 podcasts that strike the perfect balance between teaching and entertaining:
🎧 1. Brains On!
Ages: 6–12
Why It’s Great:
“Brains On!” is a science podcast that answers questions submitted by curious kids. Hosted by a different kid co-host each week alongside Molly Bloom, it breaks down complex topics like volcanoes, germs, or black holes in ways that are fun, engaging, and easy to understand.
Educational Value:
STEM learning is front and center, with episodes that encourage critical thinking and curiosity about how the world works.
🎧 2. Wow in the World
Ages: 5–12
Why It’s Great:
Hosted by Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz, this wildly energetic podcast explores incredible scientific discoveries and wacky facts from around the world. It’s packed with humor, sound effects, and story-driven explanations that make kids feel like they’re part of the adventure.
Educational Value:
Each episode introduces real scientific studies and concepts, sparking an interest in STEM and promoting inquiry-based learning.
🎧 3. Circle Round
Ages: 4–10
Why It’s Great:
Produced by WBUR, “Circle Round” adapts folktales from around the globe into engaging radio plays. Stories are narrated by professional actors and often include discussion questions to inspire deeper thinking.
Educational Value:
Builds empathy, teaches morals, and exposes children to different cultures and traditions in an engaging storytelling format.
🎧 4. Smash Boom Best
Ages: 7–13
Why It’s Great:
A clever debate show for kids where two things are pitted against each other — like “Dragons vs. Unicorns” or “Pizza vs. Tacos.” Hosted in a lively format with kid judges, it’s fun and full of strong arguments and rebuttals.
Educational Value:
Teaches kids how to form arguments, listen critically, and respect differing opinions — essential skills for school and life.
🎧 5. Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls
Ages: 6–12
Why It’s Great:
Based on the best-selling book series, this podcast shares inspiring stories of extraordinary women from history and today — astronauts, activists, artists, and more — narrated by accomplished women from all walks of life.
Educational Value:
Promotes gender equality, self-confidence, and knowledge of history through empowering storytelling.
🎙️ Final Thoughts
Podcasts can be a powerful learning tool — especially when they’re disguised as fun. Whether your child loves science, stories, debates, or adventure, there’s a podcast on this list to spark their imagination and satisfy their curiosity. Try listening together as a family — you might learn something new too!