NPR Is Launching A Podcast For Kids And It Sounds Freaking Awesome

NPR’s first-ever children’s program offers kids and their grown-ups a way to learn together

The power of the podcast will soon reach new audiences, thanks to NPR and a new podcast aimed at kids. Parents everywhere can vouch for the convenience and overall awesomeness of podcasts, as many of us tune in during the commute to work, or while we’re folding endless piles of laundry. They’re also addictive as hell (Serial, anyone?). Listening to podcasts provides a way for us to keep our minds sharp and up-to-date on a variety of subjects, and now our kids can reap the benefits too.

Geared for kids age five-12, Wow in the World seeks to get them excited about learning by stimulating them with fun facts about science, technology, discovery, and inventions. Beginning May 15, NPR’s first endeavor into children’s programming will feature a series of questions and explanations about interesting things happening all over the world. Hosted by Guy Raz of NPR and Mindy Thomas of SiriusXM, kids and grown-ups alike will have the opportunity to listen and enjoy news and information presented in a kid-friendly, amusing way.

Real kids will be a part of Wow in the World, too. Because who better to ask questions like “How do astronauts poop in space?” than kids themselves?

Perhaps the best element of this podcast is that it provides a way for families to connect via technology, without having to rely on television or screen time in general. Add in a little comedy and conversation, and this podcast sounds like it’ll be a lot of fun to listen with our kids in the car or in lieu of a story before bed.

“As parents and caregivers, many of us grapple with screen time,” Raz told NPR. “This show is not just an alternative to screens, but a show about celebrating the spirit of inquiry and encouraging kids to ask even more questions.”

In fact, the tagline for the show reads, “Eyes up. Screens Down. Jaws Dropped.” The objective is to help families connect by giving them ideas and facts to digest and explore on their own. As we can all undoubtedly attest to, learning is so much more fun when information is presented in an exciting, unique way. Incorporating the whole family into listening together not only somewhat reignites a lost art, but also offers an opportunity for communication and and a way to flex our collective critical thinking muscles.

As of next week, you and your family can listen to Wow in the World via Apple Podcasts, npr.org/wow, and www.wowintheworld.com.