20 Dec Screen-Free Summer Fun: The Best Podcasts for Australian Kids These Holidays
With long summer days, family road trips and more time away from screens, podcasts are a brilliant way to keep kids entertained, informed and inspired — without relying on social media.
From Aussie-made favourites to trusted international shows loved by Australian families, these podcasts are perfect for car trips, quiet afternoons, beach days, rainy weather and bedtime wind-downs. All are child-appropriate, easy to dip in and out of, and ideal for a summer with less scrolling and more listening.
Australian podcasts kids will love
Squiz Kids
Ages: 7–12
What it’s about:
A short, daily news podcast created especially for kids. Squiz Kids explains what’s happening in Australia and around the world in a clear, upbeat and age-appropriate way — with fun facts, quizzes and curiosity built in.
Why it’s great for summer:
Episodes are brief and perfect for breakfast time, car rides or holiday routines.
Link Squiz Kids
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other podcast apps
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ABC KIDS News Time
Ages: 6–10
What it’s about:
A weekly news podcast from ABC Kids, covering interesting stories from Australia and beyond — including animals, science, weather and major events — all explained for younger listeners.
Content note:
Introduces real-world topics gently and thoughtfully.
Link ABC KIDS News Time
Available via ABC Listen and major podcast platforms
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Imagine This: Big Ideas for Little People
Ages: 4–8
What it’s about:
Kids ask big questions — and experts help answer them. This podcast explores how the world works in a warm, curious and engaging way, encouraging children to think, wonder and ask more questions.
Link Imagine This: Big Ideas for Little People
Available on ABC Listen and podcast apps
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Fierce Girls
Ages: 6–12
What it’s about:
True stories about Australian women and girls who have shown courage, creativity and determination — from history-makers to modern trailblazers.
Why parents like it:
Positive role models and conversation starters for kids of all genders.
Link Fierce Girls
Available via ABC Listen and podcast apps
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Arty Farty – A Podcast for Kids
Ages: 8–13
What it’s about:
Produced by the Sydney Opera House, this podcast explores creativity, imagination and big ideas through conversations with artists, performers and thinkers — guided by curious kid hosts.
Link Arty Farty – A Podcast for Kids
Available on major podcast platforms
Why podcasts are perfect for a social-media-free summer
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🎧 Screen-free entertainment kids enjoy
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🚗 Ideal for long drives and travel days
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🧠 Builds listening skills, curiosity and imagination
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🛏️ Easy to use for quiet time or bedtime routines
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With so many high-quality kids’ podcasts available, summer listening can be just as enriching as reading — and far calmer than scrolling.
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International podcasts popular with Australian families
Brains On!
Ages: 6–12
What it’s about:
A science podcast where kids help answer real questions about how things work — from space and animals to everyday mysteries.
Why it’s great:
Fun, fact-based and genuinely engaging for adults listening along.
Link Brains On!
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more
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Tumble: Science Podcast for Kids
Ages: 7–12
What it’s about:
Science stories that explore discoveries, experiments and the people behind them. Clear explanations and storytelling make complex ideas accessible.
Link Tumble: Science Podcast for Kids
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What If World
Ages: 5–10
What it’s about:
Imaginative stories inspired by kids’ own “what if?” questions. Funny, creative and endlessly inventive — perfect for kids who love storytelling.
Link What If World
Available on podcast platforms
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Circle Round
Ages: 4–10
What it’s about:
Beautifully produced folktales from around the world, retold with music and sound design. Calm, engaging and culturally rich.
Link Circle Round
Available on major podcast apps
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Smash Boom Best
Ages: 8–13
What it’s about:
A playful debate podcast where kids decide which is better — cats or dogs, books or movies, superheroes or villains — using facts and friendly arguments.
Link Smash Boom Best
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and others
