If you’re looking for some screen-free entertainment for your kids, radio shows and podcasts may be the perfect answer. However, you can’t always easily find engaging shows geared specifically toward kids. We’ve put together a list of options that are all available to stream online. From a diverse array of music to captivating stories, these radio shows, stations and podcasts offer something that even mom and dad will enjoy as well.
A production of WHYY in Philadelphia, “Eleanor Amplified” is a fictional podcast series that follows a radio reporter as she chases exciting stories. Offering an introduction to journalism, it is designed to appeal to all members of the family but is specifically recommended for ages 8 to 12. Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
Celebrating over 30 years on the air, WXPN’s “Kid’s Corner” is America’s longest-running daily call-in radio show for kids. Hosted by Kathy O’Connell, this award-winning show offers entertaining and educational programs that invite kids ages 5 to 13 to be involved in interactive segments. Broadcast Monday through Thursday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Philadelphia metro area, Harrisburg, Lancaster, York, Baltimore and the Lehigh Valley, and available worldwide at kidscorner.org.
WEE Nation Radio is an online station that plays R&B, funk, jazz, go-go and hip-hop music for children with the mission of being age-appropriate and culturally inclusive. It also includes segments featuring children’s book authors reading from their books and West African storytelling. Streaming online 24/7 on weenation.com and broadcasted on WPFW in Washington, D.C., as Uncle Devin’s WEE Nation Radio Wednesdays from 7 to 8 p.m.
From WBUR, Boston’s NPR station, “Circle Round” is a podcast that adapts folktales from around the world to explore universal themes and encourage conversations between children and adults. Created and produced by parents of young children, “Circle Round” is geared toward ages 4 to 10. Available on Apple Podcasts.
Launched in February, this Pittsburgh-based station offers well-known and independent music for kids of all ages through a variety of weekly specialty shows. On air in West View, Pennsylvania, at 105.3 FM and streaming online at jump1053.com.
But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids
Vermont Public Radio’s podcast “But Why” attempts to answer questions, big and small, submitted by kids. Recent episodes include explorations into “Why are cactuses spiky?” and “What are robots doing on Mars?” Available on Apple Podcasts.
Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls
Based on the bestselling book series by the same name, “Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls” is a podcast that dives into the stories of remarkable women through history. Well-known leaders, creators and members of the Rebel Girls community narrate each episode. Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
The hosts of NPR’s podcast “Wow in the World” share news stories about science, technology and innovation geared toward kids ages 5 to 12 and their parents. Each episode discusses an exciting new scientific discovery. Available on Apple Podcasts.
