Here at Playtime by Eimmie, we're big on making screen time count. Sure, imagination and adventure are among our top priorities, but we understand that sometimes handing our kiddos a phone or video game is just easier.
However, it's important to note that studies have shown that screen time makes for a disconnect between kids and the natural world. Too much screen time can certainly serve as a threat to a child's physical, mental, and emotional health.
Related: Playtime by Eimmie Bunk Bed Ranked Perfect For Play
Luckily for us, there's something called balance. It's up to us as parents to find the right mix of real play and screen time for our kids. There are countless apps for children that are both fun and educational -- ones that you won't feel guilty about when your kids spend time on them.
If you've already shown your kids the child-friendly apps and you're still looking for ways to make screen time count, it might be time to introduce podcasts into your routine.
What is a podcast?
Think of a podcast like radio on-demand. There are endless amounts of podcast episodes and series focusing on any category you could imagine. From mental health to astrology, true crime to housework, there's a podcast for pretty much anything.
The Podcast Host said it best:
"... A podcast is a series of spoken word, audio episodes, all focused on a particular topic or theme, like cycling or startups. You can subscribe to the show with an app on your phone and listen to episodes whenever you like on your headphones, in the car or through speakers."
The best part is that podcasts aren't just for adults -- there are plenty for kids, too!
Top 10 Best Podcasts For Kids
Brains On! This one is for curious kids -- and adults! -- everywhere. Their mission is to encourage kids’ natural curiosity and wonder using science and history, which, in myopinion, is just plain awesome.
Hero Hotel. Because sometimes, kids just to hear about a great adventure. From their website: In this adventure comedy, Chet Zebrowski works at his Grandma Zee’s hotel for superheroes. When trash monsters, glam-rock singers, and static-electric villains invade the hotel – all while the heroes are on vacation and unwilling to lift a finger – it’s up to Chet and his super-powered cat Boomer to save the day. But will catering to the needs of these demanding supers push Chet too far?
The Past & The Curious. Okay, I'll admit it -- I think I may enjoy listening to this podcast as much as (if not more) than my kids. This podcast tells really cool little-known stories from history and makes it fun. There is a small song element as well as a quiz section in each episode that helps us all stay engaged while listening.
Story Pirates. If your kid likes comedy, this one is for them. Think SNL meets Sesame Street. Real children submit their ideas for stories, and then professional actors, storytellers and comedians do the work.
Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls. Looking for a podcast that will inspire your child? Each episode of Good Night Stories tells a story about real-life women throughout history. From Ruth Bader Ginsburg to Jane Goodall, Michelle Obama to Billie Jean King, this series is filled with stories about amazing role models for children -- and adults -- of any age.
But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids. How many times per day does your child ask why? Why is the sky blue? Why do dogs bark? If your answer is "too many to count," this podcast will go over great with your family.
Mother Tongue. This extraordinary podcast takes listeners across the globe to teach children about vibrant cultures they might not learn about in school. They mix cultural imagination along and teach bits from each language, giving kids a new outlook on the world around them.
Highlights Hangout. I've been obsessed with Highlights Magazine as long as I could remember, and I am thrilled to have passed my interest onto my child. Believe me when I say that I was thrilled when they announced this podcast. The genuine hosts put a fun spin on the magazine's characters, puzzles, and jokes, and even play a "Hidden Sound Game” -- which is just like my favorite Hidden Pictures except you play with your ears instead of your eyes!
Animal Sound Safari. My kid can't get enough of this one because they absolutely love animals of all kinds! This podcast tells really enjoyable stories about the history between humans and animals, and each episode is filled with trivial facts that -- I promise -- your kids will repeat (over and over and over again.)
Tara Tremendous. Because everyone loves a classic superhero story! This series tells the story of a 14-year-old who accidentally acquires the powers of every superhero in the world. It's a great mix of adventure and imagination, which is an automatic win in my book!
How do I listen to podcasts?
Podcasts can be found on apps like Spotify, Stitcher, Apple Music, or Google Play. All you need is a set of headphones or a quiet spot and your listening adventure can begin. Learn more about how to find and listen to podcasts here.
