24 Best Podcasts for Third Graders (Screen-Free Fun & Learning)
Third grade is such a sweet spot—kids are reading more independently, asking bigger questions, and craving adventures that stretch their imagination. Finding screen-free entertainment that’s fun and meaningful can feel tricky, but that’s exactly where podcasts shine.
Here’s our curated list of the best podcasts for third graders—organized by themes like history, science, stories, and more. Every pick is designed to keep 8- to 9-year-olds entertained, curious, and learning.
History Adventures
Who, When, Wow! – Amazing true stories of people from history told like exciting adventures. Why it works: Third graders love heroes and daring moments—they’ll feel like time travelers themselves.
Anytime Now – Tales you won’t find in schoolbooks—daring escapes, clever inventions, and more. Why it works: Keeps history surprising and fresh, not dusty or boring.
The Past and the Curious – Funny, surprising stories from history you’ve never heard. Why it works: Humor + history is a winning combo for kids at this age.
Time Traveling Tonya – A time-traveling host explores important moments from the past. Why it works: A playful, imaginative way to bring history alive.
Science & Curiosity
Who Smarted? – Quick, fun lessons packed with facts and laughs. Why it works: Bite-sized episodes are perfect for car rides or short attention spans.
Wow in the World – Big science ideas told with humor and excitement. Why it works: Turns complicated topics into laugh-out-loud discoveries.
Brains On! – Kids’ questions answered by scientists through stories and experiments. Why it works: Empowers kids to see their own curiosity as valuable.
Tumble – Real science discoveries told as mysteries and adventures. Why it works: Great for kids who love to solve puzzles and figure things out.
Storytelling Magic
Bedtime Stories with R.A. Spratt – Quirky, witty tales from a master storyteller. Why it works: Third graders adore humor mixed with imagination.
Grim, Grimmer, Grimmest – Spooky and silly twists on Grimm fairy tales. Why it works: Just the right amount of “scary” for this age group.
Circle Round – Folktales with music and lessons kids can connect to. Why it works: Builds empathy and opens their world to other cultures.
Super Great Kids’ Stories – Folk and fairy tales from around the world. Why it works: Classic storytelling style that feels cozy and timeless.
The Nonsensical Show – A zany mix of absurd stories, wild characters, and goofy humor from the creators at Hero Complex. Why it works: Third graders love ridiculous comedy that surprises them—this show keeps the laughs coming while sparking imagination.
Social-Emotional Learning (SEL)
Charm Words – Daily affirmations to build confidence and calm. Why it works: A gentle way to start or end the day on a positive note.
Like You Podcast – Gentle mindfulness and imagination exercises. Why it works: Helps kids develop focus and emotional awareness.
The Big Life Kids Podcast – Adventures that teach growth mindset and resilience. Why it works: Encourages perseverance during a stage when school gets harder.
Serial Stories (Listen in Order!)
Six Minutes – A thrilling mystery told in short, cliffhanger episodes. Why it works: Perfect for kids who beg “just one more!”
Hank the Cowdog – Narrated by Matthew McConaughey, this hilarious series follows a goofy ranch dog on wild adventures full of laughs. Why it works: Combines humor with lovable characters that kids quickly connect to.
Melon’s House Party – A musical story where everyday objects come to life. Why it works: Imaginative and full of catchy music.
Treasure Island 2020 – A modern, action-packed retelling of the classic pirate tale. Why it works: Adventure storytelling with a familiar classic twist.
Fun & Debate
Smash Boom Best – Debates between two cool things—kids pick the winner. Why it works: Builds critical thinking wrapped in fun competition.
The Big Fib – A game show where one “expert” is lying and kids spot the fib. Why it works: Teaches logic and careful listening while making kids laugh.
Bust or Trust: A Kids’ Mystery Podcast – A fun, detective-style show where kids investigate legends, myths, and mysteries to decide what’s fact and what’s fiction. Why it works: Third graders love being in on the investigation—sorting truth from tall tale keeps them hooked and thinking critically.
Histrionix – Real history meets improvised comedy. A young historian tells a true story from the past in front of a live audience, while adult improvisers act it out with hilarious twists. Why it works: Third graders love the mix of real facts and silly nonsense—it keeps history both educational and laugh-out-loud funny.
All of these podcasts—and hundreds more—are available inside the Kidspod app, where everything is hand-picked for safety and fun.
