Great Podcasts for Curious Kids (That Parents Will Actually Enjoy Too)
Introduction
Sometimes, you need something educational that doesn’t feel like a lesson, entertaining without needing a screen, and calm without being boring. Enter: podcasts.
Whether you’re in the car, prepping dinner, or winding down before bed, a good kids’ podcast can keep everyone engaged and maybe even spark some surprising conversations. These podcast picks are designed for curious kids around ages 6 to 12, but they’re just as enjoyable for the grownups listening along.
From science facts to silly debates and global storytelling, these shows are fun, smart, and mostly screen free.
1. Brains On!
What it’s about:
This award winning podcast explores science questions from real kids. Everything from “Why do we dream?” to “Can you survive without a brain?”
Why kids love it:
Each episode feels like a fun science experiment for your ears. There are kid co-hosts, weird sound effects, mystery sounds, and plenty of facts to wow the whole family.
Good for:
Road trips, homeschoolers, and kids who love asking “why?”
Where to listen:
BrainsOn.org, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
2. Wow in the World
What it’s about:
Science, tech, and wacky wonders from around the world told through the high-energy banter of hosts Mindy and Guy Raz.
Why kids love it:
It’s full of weird but true facts, dramatic storytelling, and goofy voices that make even serious topics (like volcanoes or black holes) wildly fun.
Good for:
High energy kids and families who love animated storytelling.
Where to listen:
tinkercast.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
3. Smash Boom Best
What it’s about:
A debate show where two things go head to head like dragons vs unicorns, chocolate vs cheese and listeners get to decide the winner.
Why kids love it:
It’s interactive and opinionated in the best way. They’ll learn how arguments work and how to think critically, all while rooting for their favorite side.
Good for:
Sibling debates, car rides, or dinnertime discussion starters.
Where to listen:
SmashBoom.org, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
4. Circle Round
What it’s about:
Global folktales and fables retold with beautiful narration, music, and sound design.
Why kids love it:
Each story is magical and immersive, with simple morals and rich characters. Many episodes feature well known voice actors or musicians.
Good for:
Quiet time, bedtime, or screen-free afternoons.
Where to listen:
wbur.org, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
5. Mystery Recipe (by America’s Test Kitchen Kids)
What it’s about:
Each week builds up to a surprise recipe through cooking-themed episodes that teach science, kitchen tips, and fun food trivia.
Why kids love it:
There are challenges, taste tests, and secret ingredients, all wrapped in fun characters and storytelling. It often inspires real cooking fun in the kitchen.
Good for:
Hands-on learners and kids who love to eat (and help).
Where to listen:
ATK Kids, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
6. The Past and the Curious
What it’s about:
True stories from history, told with a humorous and engaging twist. Think pirates, presidents, and strange inventions brought to life through storytelling and sound.
Why kids love it:
It turns historical facts into fun narratives. Each episode is filled with unexpected details and catchy original songs.
Good for:
Kids who love facts and fun stories from the past.
Where to listen:
ThePastAndTheCurious.com, Apple Podcasts, Spotify
Final Thoughts
Podcasts offer something that’s increasingly rare: entertainment that doesn’t demand a screen. The best ones can quiet a car full of kids, make chores more fun, and even inspire dinner table conversations. These shows are smart, engaging, and surprisingly binge worthy, even for adults.
Try a few and see what sticks. Whether your kids love science, food, storytelling, or friendly debate, there’s a great podcast out there that will make them laugh, learn, and stay curious.
Written by the TimeForFam Team
We explore, review, and share the best in family entertainment so you can skip the research and jump straight to the fun.
Read more about us here
You might also like
Family Movie Night Theme Ideas That Make It Extra Fun (Snacks, Decor, and Movie Ideas)
Turn a regular movie night into a fun family event with these easy themed ideas, complete with snacks, simple decor, and just the right amount of magic.
7 Budget Friendly Theme Parks in the U.S. Perfect for Young Kids
Skip the crowds and save money with these 7 budget friendly theme parks across the U.S. Perfect for younger kids who love gentle rides and big fun.
Great Travel Toys for Kids (Quiet, Compact, and Actually Engaging)
Traveling with kids? These seven quiet, compact, and engaging toys are perfect for flights, road trips, and hotel downtime. No screens or chaos required.
