Digital Smarts - Why Aren’t Their More Podcasts for Kids?

There is evidence that kids respond more creatively when listening to audio stories than watching video. Studios show that audio stories have prompted kids to draw more novel pictures, think up more unique questions, and solve problems in a more imaginative way than did TV tales. Research further supports the benefits of audio learning for children. When words are spoken aloud, kids can understand and engage with ideas that are two to three grade-levels higher than their reading level would normally allow. With all of this research, you might find yourself asking - why aren’t there more podcasts for kids?

There is little precedent for offering podcasts for children. Media Producer Lindsay Patterson recently posted a list of podcasts you can listen to with your kids that could be worth exploring for riding in cars, downtime before bed, and other gaps in existing routines. Podcasts are also a great way to get kids away from screens and to use their ears rather than their eyes – a great learning skill that can help them in school and beyond.