Fuel your brain and keep the kids entertained with these 11 fun, family-friendly podcasts

Educational podcasts are a fun and informative way to supplement kids’ classroom experiences or fill free time with an academic purpose. If you’re a parent, guardian, or caretaker looking for screen-free entertainment for kids, a parent/guardian wanting to learn alongside your children, or a teacher who is planning for classroom lessons, here’s a rundown of podcasts that are a great fit for your needs:

On our list, we’ve included fictional storytelling podcasts, shows that tackle questions big and small, a show providing advice for parents, and a fun debate podcast, just to mention a few.

Wow in the World

Tinkercast’s “Wow in the World” presents stories for kids and their parents about technology, science, and the world. It strives to inspire new ideas, start conversations, and stir curiosity. Listeners can visit their official website to download complementary, interactive worksheet activities to accompany each podcast episode. Visit their website for sweet, downloadable craft and project ideas.

What If World – Stories for Kids

It’s an adventure in podcast form! Eric O’Keefe’s “What If World – Stories for Kids'” twice-weekly episodes travel to lands where mystical creatures rule, wacky stories rise, and everything is possible. Eric’s stories are inspired from listeners’ ideas and questions such as “What if the sun was cold and rain was hot?” and “What if rainbows could swim?” Eric’s stories segue into kid-friendly lessons to encourage new ideas.

But Why? A Podcast for Curious Kids

Who invented money? What’s the smartest thing a hippo can do? What are robots doing on Mars? “But Why? A Podcast for Curious Kids,” dives into questions big and small. From nature, to words, ideas, and more, each episode will present engaging answers in dialogue, acting out scenarios, and explaining topics for curious kids. Email questions@butwhykids.org for a chance to get your question answered on the show.

Smash Boom Best

American Public Media’s “Smash Boom Best” is a debate show for families and kids. Each episode places two topics/things against each other to kick-start lively discussions. Then it’s your turn to decide which is the winner! Recent episodes debated Pikachu vs. Mario, Horses vs. Dolphins, and Spaceships vs. Submarines.

Good Inside with Dr. Becky

Hosted and created by mom and clinical psychologist Dr. Becky Kennedy, her podcast explores parenting questions as tools are shared and advice is offered. Dr. Becky is often joined by special guests. Actresses, singers, and producers Kristen Bell and Jackie Tohn recently spoke about how singing and music are excellent parenting tools.

Story Pirates

Gimlet’s “Story Pirates” honors storytelling and creativity by bringing kids’ ideas to life on the podcast. Celebrity guests frequently appear on the show. The star-studded lineup previously included Lin-Manuel Miranda, Julie Andrews, Lake Bell, Dax Shepard, and Claire Danes, just to name a few.

Brains On!

From American Public Media comes “Brains On!” Do dogs know they’re dogs? What did dinosaurs sound like? Recent episodes of this podcast answer interesting science questions for listeners of all ages. A different kid co-hosts each week with Molly Bloom to encourage curiosity. The show also answers listeners’ questions.

Eat Your Spanish: A Spanish Learning Podcast for Kids and Families

Evan Blum’s “Eat Your Spanish: A Spanish Learning Podcast for Kids and Families” enables its creators Evan and Vanessa to share their appreciation of Spanish language and music with the world. Their podcast features stories, games, and sing-alongs to facilitate Spanish language learning in a fun way for all age groups.

Greeking Out

National Geographic Kids presents “Greeking Out.” Kid-friendly versions of Greek myths for the entire family are released weekly. Tune in to learn about topics like The Olympics, Greek gods and goddesses, and other classic tales.

Julie’s Library

From American Public Media comes “Julie’s Library.” Actress and icon Julie Andrews hosts story time with her daughter, Emma Walton Hamilton. The mother-daughter duo read through their library of favorite children’s books. Each episode is accompanied with music and fun activities.

The Past & The Curious

Mick Sullivan’s “The Past & The Curious” is a history podcast for kids and their parents. Recent episodes speak about characters from the past including Edwin Hubble, Levi Strauss, and musician Django Reinhardt.