Podcasts for Tweens: A Guide for Parents

In today’s digital age, podcasts have become a popular form of entertainment, and tweens are no exception to this trend. With their curious minds and thirst for knowledge, tweens are increasingly seeking out engaging and educational content that can be found in the world of podcasts. From storytelling and educational podcasts to comedy and music shows, there is a wide variety of options available to cater to the diverse interests of tweens.

One of the great benefits of podcasts for tweens is the ability to listen and learn on the go. Whether it’s during car rides, family trips, or simply while relaxing at home, podcasts offer a convenient and accessible way for tweens to explore different topics and expand their horizons. Additionally, listening to podcasts can improve their listening skills and enhance their ability to focus and comprehend information.

When it comes to choosing podcasts for tweens, it’s important to consider their age, interests, and maturity level. Here are some popular podcast genres that are suitable for tweens:

1. Storytelling Podcasts: Tweens love stories, and there are plenty of podcasts that offer captivating narratives. Whether it’s fantasy, mystery, or adventure, storytelling podcasts can transport tweens to different worlds and ignite their imagination. Some notable options include “The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel,” “Wow in the World,” and “The Alien Adventures of Finn Caspian.”

2. Educational Podcasts: Podcasts can be a valuable educational tool for tweens. They can learn about history, science, language, and more, all while being entertained. Educational podcasts like “Brains On! Science Podcast for Kids,” “But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids,” and “Stuff You Should Know” provide informative and engaging content that can spark their curiosity and expand their knowledge.

3. Comedy Podcasts: Laughter is universal, and tweens enjoy a good dose of humor. Comedy podcasts can provide light-hearted entertainment and help tweens develop their sense of humor. Shows like “The Two Princes,” “Short & Curly,” and “Good Job, Brain!” offer funny and entertaining discussions on various topics that tweens can relate to.

4. Music Podcasts: Music is a universal language, and tweens often have a deep connection with music. Music podcasts expose tweens to different genres, artists, and musical styles. They can discover new songs, learn about musical techniques, and even get inspired to create their own music. Notable music podcasts for tweens include “Ear Snacks,” “Tumble: Science Podcast for Kids,” and “Classical Classroom.”

5. Current Events and News: Tweens are increasingly aware of the world around them and have a natural curiosity about current events. Podcasts that focus on news and current affairs can provide a platform for tweens to stay informed and engage in meaningful discussions. Shows like “The Week Junior Show,” “Smash Boom Best,” and “Newsy Jacuzzi” present news in a kid-friendly and informative manner.

It’s important for parents and guardians to be involved in guiding tweens’ podcast choices and to ensure that the content is age-appropriate. While podcasts can be a valuable source of entertainment and education, supervision and open communication are key to ensure a safe and enriching podcast experience for tweens.

Podcasts offer a unique and engaging form of entertainment for tweens. With a wide range of genres and topics to choose from, tweens have the opportunity to explore different interests, expand their knowledge, and develop their listening skills. So, whether it’s a captivating story, an educational discussion, or a good laugh, there’s a podcast out there that’s perfect for every tween. Happy listening!

Podcasts for Tweens: A Guide for Parents

Can a 13-Year-Old Have a Podcast?

According to Spotify’s terms and conditions, individuals who are 13 years or older but under the age of majority (which is typically 18 years of age) need parental or guardian consent to use Spotify for Podcasters. This means that a 13-year-old can have a podcast on Spotify as long as they have obtained permission from their parent or legal guardian. It’s important to note that violating these terms can result in the removal of the podcast from Spotify for Podcasters.

Do Tweens Listen to Podcasts?

According to a survey conducted by Kids Listen, it has been found that tweens, who are typically between the ages of 8 and 12, are indeed interested in and listen to podcasts. However, it is important to note that each tween is unique and their podcast preferences may vary.

Here are some key points to consider regarding tweens and podcast listening:

1. Growing Interest: The survey indicates that there is a growing interest among tweens for podcasts. They are showing a keenness to explore this audio medium as a form of entertainment and learning.

2. Diverse Content: Tweens have diverse interests, and podcasters have recognized this by creating a wide range of content specifically tailored for them. Podcasts cover various genres such as storytelling, educational topics, science, history, comedy, and more. This diversity allows tweens to find podcasts that cater to their individual preferences.

3. Repeated Listening: One interesting finding from the survey is that tweens tend to listen to podcasts repeatedly. This suggests that they enjoy certain podcasts enough to revisit them multiple times. It could be due to the engaging storytelling, educational value, or simply the entertainment factor.

4. Age-Appropriate Content: Parents and guardians play an essential role in ensuring that the podcasts their tweens listen to are age-appropriate. Many podcasts aimed at tweens are designed to be educational and entertaining while maintaining a safe and suitable content level.

5. Listening Habits: The survey also reveals that tweens are more likely to listen to podcasts at home or during car rides with their families. This indicates that podcasts are seen as a shared activity that can be enjoyed together.

Tweens do listen to podcasts, and there is a growing interest in this medium among this age group. The availability of diverse content, repeated listening habits, and the potential for shared experiences make podcasts an appealing form of entertainment and learning for tweens.

Are There Any Podcasts for Kids?

There are several podcasts available for kids. Here is a list of some popular podcasts that cater specifically to children:

– Little Kids, Big Hearts (age 3+): This podcast helps younger kids develop social and emotional skills.

– Spanish Stories for Kids (age 4+): This podcast features stories in Spanish, which can help kids learn and improve their language skills.

– The Children’s Hour (age 6+): This podcast offers a mix of educational and entertaining content, including interviews, music, and storytelling.

– The Story Seeds Podcast (age 6+): In this podcast, young storytellers are paired with authors to create unique and imaginative stories.

– Dream Big Podcast (age 7+): This podcast encourages kids to dream big and offers interviews with inspiring guests who share their stories and insights.

– Time for Kids Explains (age 7+): This podcast provides explanations on various topics, helping kids understand the world around them.

– Young & Indigenous (age 8+): This podcast showcases stories from young Indigenous voices, highlighting their culture, experiences, and perspectives.

– The Activators! (age 8+): This podcast features young activists who share their passion for making a positive impact on the world.

These podcasts offer a range of topics and formats to engage and entertain kids of different ages. They can be a great way for children to learn, explore their interests, and develop their listening skills.

What Podcast Should You Listen to as a Beginner?

As a beginner in the world of podcasts, there are plenty of great options to explore that cater to a wide range of interests. Here are a few recommendations to get you started:

1. “The Adam Buxton Podcast”: Hosted by comedian Adam Buxton, this podcast features interviews with various guests from the worlds of comedy, music, and film. With a relaxed and conversational style, Buxton delves into interesting and often hilarious discussions, making it an enjoyable listen for beginners.

2. “Serial”: If you’re into true crime stories, “Serial” is a groundbreaking podcast that investigates one captivating case per season. It gained immense popularity for its storytelling and in-depth exploration of the cases, making it a great choice for those who enjoy suspense and mystery.

3. “Stuff You Should Know”: This podcast covers a wide range of interesting topics, from history to science, pop culture, and beyond. Hosted by Josh Clark and Charles W. “Chuck” Bryant, the show presents informative and engaging discussions that are easy to follow, making it a perfect choice for beginners seeking to expand their knowledge.

4. “The Joe Rogan Experience”: Hosted by comedian Joe Rogan, this podcast offers long-form conversations with a diverse range of guests, including scientists, politicians, athletes, and artists. With a conversational and open-minded approach, Rogan delves into a variety of subjects, making it an excellent choice for those seeking thought-provoking discussions.

5. “TED Radio Hour”: If you’re interested in learning and exploring new ideas, the “TED Radio Hour” is a great choice. Hosted by Guy Raz, the podcast features TED Talks on various topics, curated around a central theme. It offers a condensed and thought-provoking way to discover new ideas and perspectives.

Remember, these are just a few suggestions to get you started. Explore different genres, topics, and hosts to find what resonates with you the most. Happy listening!

Conclusion

Podcasts for tweens offer a diverse and engaging range of content that is tailored to their specific interests and needs. These podcasts provide a unique opportunity for tweens to expand their knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and explore new ideas in a captivating and interactive format.

By listening to podcasts, tweens can enhance their listening comprehension skills, improve vocabulary, and strengthen their ability to think critically and analytically. These audio shows also provide a safe and age-appropriate alternative to screen time, allowing tweens to engage with content that is both educational and entertaining.

Furthermore, podcasts for tweens cater to a wide variety of interests, including storytelling, science, history, comedy, and more. This ensures that every tween can find something that piques their curiosity and keeps them engaged. Additionally, many podcasts for tweens are created by kids themselves, offering a unique perspective and allowing tweens to connect with their peers.

Parents and guardians can feel confident in allowing their tweens to explore the world of podcasts, as many platforms provide age-appropriate content and parental controls. It is important, however, for parents to review and select podcasts that align with their child’s interests and values, ensuring a positive and enriching listening experience.

Podcasts for tweens offer a valuable and enjoyable way for this age group to learn, be entertained, and explore a wide range of topics. With their accessibility, educational value, and engaging format, podcasts are an excellent medium for tweens to expand their horizons and ignite their curiosity. So, go ahead and encourage your tween to dive into the world of podcasts – it’s an experience they won’t want to miss!

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Nancy Sherman

Nancy Sherman has more than a decade of experience in education and is passionate about helping schools, teachers, and students succeed. She began her career as a Teaching Fellow in NY where she worked with educators to develop their instructional practice. Since then she held diverse roles in the field including Educational Researcher, Academic Director for a non-profit foundation, Curriculum Expert and Coach, while also serving on boards of directors for multiple organizations. She is trained in Project-Based Learning, Capstone Design (PBL), Competency-Based Evaluation (CBE) and Social Emotional Learning Development (SELD).