Kids' podcasts have emerged as a powerful medium, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment. One such podcast is "Bust or Trust," which examines mysterious phenomena through the eyes of a skeptic and a believer. My own experience with this podcast shows how it can engage kids while also teaching them critical thinking skills.

Unlock the World of Learning with Kids' Podcasts

Exploring "Bust or Trust"

"Bust or Trust" has been a favorite among kids for almost a year. It examines topics like alien abductions, haunted houses, and spontaneous human combustion. For example, the story of the Devil's Footprints in 1855 is both eerie and captivating. Kids enjoy hearing about these mysterious discoveries, and they also appreciate the hosts' sense of humor, as seen in their fart jokes.

But the creators of "Bust or Trust" had a more sophisticated goal in mind. They wanted to teach kids about fact-checking and critical thinking. Each episode presents several pieces of "evidence" supporting a spooky subject, and the hosts offer critiques. Listeners are invited to evaluate the evidence and send in their conclusions, which are featured on the show.

The Impact of Podcasts on Kids

"Bust or Trust" is just one of a wave of podcasts that are reinventing kids' entertainment. According to a 2023 survey by UTA, 48 percent of US kids listen to podcasts at least weekly, and 93 percent of parents said their children are more interested in podcasts. Popular shows like "Story Pirates" can rack up 1 million downloads per month.

For parents, podcasts offer an alternative to TV and TikTok. They can be a source of entertainment during long car trips and a gateway to a love of learning. Kids like Nora find that podcasts bring them into a different world while also giving them information. Podcasts can teach kids skills like story comprehension and reflective thinking, and they can energize them about new topics.

Other Kids' Podcasts to Try

Readers recommended some great kids' podcasts, such as "Unspookable" which breaks down scary stories and urban legends. "Whose Amazing Life" invites listeners to inhabit the lives of famous people and historical figures. And "Greeking Out" retells Greek myths in a fun way. These podcasts offer a variety of experiences for kids.

On "Story Pirates," professional performers act out young listeners' stories. Nora was featured on an episode about aspiring singers, and it gave her confidence in her creativity. The podcast shows that kids can be writers even if they struggle in school.

Training Future News Consumers

While podcasts for adults can be a source of anxiety, some kids' creators are thinking about the media landscape. The creators of "Bust or Trust" show kids how to disagree productively. They listen to each other's points of view and extend courtesy to the young "chief detectives" on the show.

The popularity of podcasts may teach educators and families about what engages kids. It shows the power of audio storytelling and the sense of authenticity it provides. Podcasts allow creators to interact directly with their audience in a way that's difficult with TV.

What I'm Reading and Inbox

Last year, only 55 percent of kids got vaccinated for the flu, and this year the rate is even lower. There are also political issues like the defense bill and gender-affirming care. School bus service is deteriorating, and more carpooling startups are emerging.

During the holiday season, it's interesting to hear what kids like to do. Do they play with cousins or hope for sledding weather? Let us know at anna.north@vox.com.

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Swati SharmaVox Editor-in-Chief