The absence of images in podcasts seems to be a source of their creative potential. Without visuals, listeners are required to fill the gaps-and when these listeners are children, the results can be powerful. Studies have found that children between the ages of 7-13 respond more creatively to radio stories than to stories shown on television. Audio stories prompted kids to draw more novel pictures, think up more unique questions, and solve problems in a more imaginative way than did TV tales.
Here are just a few STEM related podcasts for kids:
Wow in the World: NPR's first show for kids discusses the latest news in science and technology in a way that's enjoyable for kids and informative for grown-ups.
Brains On: Each episode of this science podcast is co-hosted by a different kid, tackling their questions with interviews, fun segments, and the occasional musical number.
Marina Ventura's Climate Explorers: Marina discovers what climate is with Mappy App - and explores different climates that exist around the world.
SHABAM!: This podcast uses fictional stories to teach listeners about science. It's hosted by an emergency medicine physician, a science journalist, and a filmmaker. Season one tells the story of three kids who are separated from their parents during a zombie apocalypse.
The Show About Science: A science interview show hosted by second grader Nate Butkus. Each episode is filled with fascinating information from scientists and educators around the globe.
Tumble: A science podcast that explores how science actually works as a process. Co-hosted by a science journalist and a teacher, stories range from reaching the deepest part of the ocean to hunting for black holes in distant galaxies.
Hear Here! : Hear Here! is a music appreciation podcast for kids. Explore different genres of music and the various ways music affects our lives. Hear the music and accomplishments of a boy born with autism, meet professional musicians from our region that started playing as kids, make music using found objects, and more on Hear Here! Each episode will be accompanied by classroom activities, discussion prompts, and additional resources for parents and teachers.