We’re sharing some of our favorite podcasts, organized by the age of the intended listener. Today’s post lists our choices for elementary school children; later this week, we’ll share our selections for students in middle and high school. All will sneakily build vocabulary and background knowledge while they entertain the whole family. And, happily, all are free.
Podcasts for Elementary School
Short and Curly – Episodes are about 20 minutes long
This rather strangely named podcast explores kid-friendly ethical questions (“Do you have to love your sibling?” “Are some lies OK?” “Is it ever OK to fight back against a bully?”) that will get young minds churning.
The Radio Adventures of Eleanor Amplified – Episodes are around 10 minutes long
Radio journalist Eleanor travels to locations as ordinary as the gym and the breakfast table and as exotic as Congress and outer space as she follows scoops. Her adventures are enjoyable and enlightening.
Tumble – Episodes are just under 20 minutes long.
Small scientists will love learning about scientific topics like Antarctic dinosaurs, Mars, deep-sea creatures, parasites, and more from experts and researchers.
The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd – Episodes range from 6 to 15 minutes.
Follow the adventures of the World's Most Brilliant Scientist, Dr. Floyd as he tries to thwart the plans of his evil arch nemesis, Dr. Steve. All the while Dr. Floyd (and listeners) learn about the people and events that shaped the history of the Earth. This podcast has been described as a mix between Rocky & Bullwinkle and Mystery Science Theater 3000 with an educational spin.
For great stories, check out Storynory (tales are a little more than 20 minutes long) and the Stories Podcast (tales are around 15 minutes long).