5 Educational Podcasts Your Kids Should Be Listening To

Students learn best when they engage with material in a variety of forms. A great way for your child to take a break from screens and visual learning is by integrating podcasts into their daily routine. Podcasts are a fun, enriching way to expand your child’s thinking, engage their senses, build their knowledge base, and sharpen critical skills while on the go or during downtime. 

Here are five educational podcasts that are great for curious young minds:

Short and Curly

Best for: Ethical reasoners & eager conversationalists

This fast-paced ethics podcast for kids asks questions, presents dilemmas, and prompts families to talk, debate, and think deeply together. This is a great way to build critical thinking skills.

Freakonomics Radio

Best for: Detail-oriented thinkers & future economists

This podcast explores “the hidden side of everything.” Host Stephen J. Dubner explores economics, sports, government, entrepreneurship, and more! Perfect for kids ready to ask “why” and dig deeper.

The Allusionist

Best for: Word lovers & extensive readers

This clever podcast dives into the quirks and oddities of the English language, exploring the roots of common words and idioms. The Allusionist makes language learning fun, and as a bonus, prepares students for the verbal sections of the ISEE and SSAT.

Wow In the World

Best for: Budding scientists & explorers

Produced by NPR, this hit science podcast brings exciting topics to life. Hosts Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz explore both popular and obscure science topics with humor, wit, and plenty of cultural references. Learn about solar eclipses, 3D printers, the aurora borealis, and more.

Stuff You Should Know

Best for: Inquisitive minds & trivia fans

Perfect for kids who always ask “How does that work?” This podcast provides  the fascinating history and mechanics behind everyday things, like the grandfather clock, colorblindness, and alternative fuels! Great for curious learners who love knowing everything about everything. 

Bonus Tip: Test prep doesn’t have to mean textbooks and worksheets alone. These podcasts help build vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking–skills that are essential for success on the ISEE, SSAT, ACT, SAT, and HSPT. 

Test Innovators helps students prepare for competitive tests! Check out our diagnostic practice platforms for the ISEE, SSAT, ACT, SAT, and HSPT.