Podcasts for the Whole Family
For Young Kids (Ages 4-10)
1. Circle Round (NPR)
A beautifully produced podcast that adapts folktales from around the world into fun and engaging radio plays. The music and voice acting are top-notch, and each episode ends with thoughtful discussion prompts.
2. Brains On! (American Public Media)
Curious kids will love this science podcast that answers big questions like “How do airplanes fly?” or “Why do we dream?” The content is science-based and kid-approved, with fun sound effects and real child co-hosts.
3. Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls
Empowering, bite-sized stories of extraordinary women from history and today. Great for inspiring confidence and curiosity in young listeners.
4. Story Pirates
Part sketch comedy, part storytelling — this podcast turns stories written by real kids into hilarious and creative performances.
For Tweens and Teens (Ages 10+)
5. Smash Boom Best
A debate-style podcast that pits two topics against each other (e.g., pizza vs. tacos) with clever arguments and sound effects. Great for critical thinking — and starting funny debates in the car.
6. The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel
A serialized mystery podcast about a group of middle schoolers investigating strange disappearances. Think Stranger Things, but for tweens — exciting, mysterious, and clean.
7. Stuff You Should Know (select episodes)
A smart, engaging podcast covering a huge range of topics — from how volcanoes work to the history of comic books. Pre-screen episodes for age-appropriateness for younger teens.
8. Greeking Out (National Geographic Kids)
Perfect for mythology fans, this podcast retells Greek myths in a fun, modern style — informative without being boring.
Audiobooks for Road Trips
For Younger Kids
1. The Magic Tree House series by Mary Pope Osborne
Follow siblings Jack and Annie on time-traveling adventures filled with history, mystery, and magic. Perfect for early elementary ages.
2. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White (narrated by the author!)
This classic is even more magical when read aloud by E.B. White himself. A sweet story that can be enjoyed by the whole family.
3. Ramona Quimby, Age 8 by Beverly Cleary
Hilarious and heartwarming tales of Ramona’s misadventures are great for younger kids — and parents who remember reading them growing up.
For Tweens and Teens
4. Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan
Teens and tweens alike will be glued to the action-packed adventures of Percy and his friends. Bonus: it might inspire interest in mythology and history.
5. Holes by Louis Sachar
A brilliantly layered story with mystery, humor, and redemption. Perfect for listening together and discussing after.
6. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
For older teens, this dystopian thriller is gripping and thought-provoking — and the audiobook narration is excellent.
7. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
A beautifully written, emotional novel for mature teen listeners. A powerful way to introduce deeper historical themes in a format that feels accessible.
8. Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
Ideal for older kids or tweens who enjoy character-driven stories and lyrical writing. Anne’s adventures are timeless and heartwarming.
Tips for Making the Most of Audio Entertainment on the Road
- Download ahead: Spotty service on the road is no fun. Download episodes or audiobooks to your device before you hit the highway.
- Take breaks: Alternate between audio time and music or conversation to avoid listening fatigue.
- Let kids choose: Letting kids take turns picking the next story or episode helps keep them engaged.
- Create a listening tradition: Start a new series on every road trip and continue it together over time — it’s a great way to bond and build anticipation
This summer, make the most of your car time with audio content that delights every age in your crew. With the right mix of humor, adventure, and curiosity, your road trip just might become the best part of the vacation.
