Remember summer reading programs from childhood – earning prizes for every book you finished, logging progress at the local library and discovering new stories every week?
A fresh twist on that tradition is taking shape with summer podcast listening challenges, offering a screen-free, story-packed learning experience to stay engaged throughout the summer.
Like traditional reading programs, these new educational listening challenges keep kids curious and engaged all summer long – but this time, with their ears.
The Summer Listening Challenge 2025 brings together popular children's podcasts such as "What If World", "Koala Shine", "Stoopkid Stories", "Girl Tales", "Dorktales Storytime", "Culture Kids", "By Kids For Kids", and "The Weekly Roar".
Why Children's Podcasts Are Growing in Popularity
As the podcasting industry grows and evolves, there has been a rise in children's audio content due to its educational benefits. Both reading and listening have advantages and disadvantages in terms of learning styles and retention, but podcasts for auditory learners can be highly engaging and allow one to multitask.
The Educational Power of Podcasts
Podcasts can enhance literacy, comprehension and critical thinking skills, especially among children and teens, according to Vox.
Research has shown that listening to podcasts and audiobooks activates the same parts of the brain as reading, and educational podcasts can improve focus and strengthen listening skills.
Incorporating podcasts into learning environments introduces new topics to listeners, offering a free and easily accessible alternative to print books. Podcasts can also be used to assess literacy skills in writing, reading and verbal communication.
By analyzing podcasts and creating their own shows, children and students can grow comprehension, critical thinking and communication skills.
National Podcasts Enhancing Summer Learning
The Summer Listening Challenge 2025, launched by Sounds Profitable and supported by platforms like Spotify, invites listeners of all ages to log podcast hours, discover new shows and earn rewards. It encourages participants to set goals, much like traditional summer reading initiatives.
Organizations like PBS Kids and NPR have also released summer podcast guides tailored to family listening and education, diving into science, storytelling and history. Many podcasts now also include transcripts and activity sheets, making them ideal for classroom use or family learning.
Curated Podcast Recommendations for Summer Listening
Whether you are a parent looking for kid-friendly content or an adult seeking summer podcast entertainment, there is a show out there for you. These picks reflect the imagination, discovery and joy of summer reading programs.
For Kids:
- “Wow in the World” (Tinkercast/NPR) – A fun science podcast for kids that turns curiosity into an adventure.
- “Circle Round” (WBUR) – Folktales from around the world told with high-quality sound design and big-name voice talent.
- “Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls” – Inspiring stories about women in history, ideal for bedtime listening.
For Teens and Tweens:
- “Brains On!” (APM Studios) – A science podcast that answers questions from real kids, co-hosted by kid reporters.
- “The Big Fib” – A fact vs. fiction game show that teaches media literacy in a playful format.
- “Book Club for Kids” – Young readers discuss books with authors, celebrities and librarians.
For Adults:
- “Smologies” (Alie Ward) – Condensed episodes of the science show "Ologies", focused on specific fields.
- “Normal Gossip” – A light, conversational series sharing captivating stories submitted by listeners.
- “Everything Is Alive” – Objects like lampposts and soda cans are interviewed in this creative series.
Bonus – For Aspiring Creators:
- “Start Here” (Spotify for Podcasters) – Tools and tips for starting a podcast.
- “Podcasting 101” – Basics of podcast creation, technology and formats.
Embracing a New Tradition
As media and education evolve, podcast listening challenges prove that meaningful learning does not have to come from a textbook or a printed page.
Like the summer reading programs of the past, these audio-based experiences encourage curiosity and connection, combining education and entertainment in a way that easily fits into summer routines.
