When a child hits their tween and teenage years, they now start to expand their horizons and learn more about the things around them. They also become exposed to crucial issues and develop their own stand about these topics.
As parents, it is important we give them the right resources to help them through this period of discovery. Since modern technology is very popular with tweens and teenagers, podcasts can help them a lot.
I used to listen to the radio a lot when I was younger. That improve both my English and Chinese listening skills. Podcasts are the modern interpretation of a radio. While radio is still being used today, they mostly focus on current affairs and showbiz.
Podcasts, on the other hand, feature a variety of topics – from current affairs to popular culture. They can also be downloaded or accessed through popular streaming sites.
Here is the list of the top 10 podcasts Singapore teens can listen to and get inspiration from:
TED Talks
TED Talks is a special podcast that talks about a variety of topics that are both informative and inspirational. Some of these talks feature some of the world’s leading experts in the field.
Anyone can also listen to these podcasts, no matter what age they may be. Nowadays, there are TED Talks held in various regions and focus on crucial issues affecting the country.
Radiolab
For tweens and teens who love to learn about science in a different way, Radiolab is the podcast to listen to. It has won the Peabody award for its unique discussion on science.
Aside from science, they also talk about history, current events and popular culture. It is important to know that some of the episodes for this podcast feature strong language so you may need to censor these parts.
Science Friday
Another science-related podcast your child may love is Science Friday or “SciFri” to its fans. The series has been on the air for the past 20 years and they talk about everything: from basic science topics to latest discoveries.
Fans can also look forward to host Ira Flatow’s weekly talks with special guests as they debate about the theme for the week.
Stuff You Missed in History Class
History is one of the most boring topics for many students, but there are bits in history that every person should know. This special podcast from the guys of HowStuffWorks talks about various facts about history.
From weird events, overlooked historical characters to historical events that people may not have heard about, they will discuss it. You may even be surprised yourself to find out about the tidbits that will be included in the talks.
Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!
Want a podcast that will not just inform your child about the latest but also give them quite a laugh?
Peter Sagal’s Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me! is the perfect podcast for them. Sagal and a special group of comedians-slash-journalists will talk about the latest news and give it a comedic flare.
Listeners can even call in the show and compete in the show’s games. The podcast also has a special weekly celebrity guest who will take part in the show’s segments.
Parents must take note that some of the jokes can get a little out of hand so guide your child accordingly.
Youth Radio
Want to show your kids that they can also make a difference and even become a journalist?
Youth Radio is a podcast created and run by teens aspiring to become journalists.
The podcast features current news and stories written by teenagers in the country. Your child can even send their own stories for the podcast to consider.
Nerdette
For teenagers and tweens who love popular culture, world news and social issues, Nerdette will not disappoint.
The debates discussed in the podcast will explore how people can address various issues and why it is important to learn. They also feature interviews with celebrities and experts and talk about these popular topics.
Sometimes, these guests can even recommend advice on these topics for people to use in their daily life.
Math Mutation
For those who are mathematically-inclined, Math Mutation will definitely help your child out. The podcast focuses on explaining various branches of math in parts to explain it better.
Each episode usually lasts around 10 to 15 minutes and it even comes with various examples for students to work on. Some may see it as a supplementary class because the podcast sounds like one.
ECorner
Is your tween or teenager starting to show signs of being an entrepreneur? If that is a big yes, why not introduce them to ECorner?
This podcast focuses on various business topics curated by Stanford University.
From the basics of running a business to the latest in business, they will discuss it. The podcast is free so your child can listen to the podcast regularly.
The Daily Boost
If your child needs some motivation, this podcast is just for them. The podcast ensures that listeners become motivated with life advice from its host John Smith.
Smith is very funny during these talks, but he will talk about the facts straight on and guide you through every facet of life discussed in the episode. A good inspirational session is what everyone needs!
Conclusion
In today’s age, it is important to be informed and be aware of what is going on around the world. Our teens and tweens will not be short of resources to fall back on to understand these issues.
This list is just some of the few podcasts out there that your child can listen to, so let them explore if these podcasts don’t fit their needs.
You can even listen to these podcasts together and get into a healthy debate on current affairs. Discussing the topics can help you bond with your child and even help you clear out any concerns they have about them.
The perfect bonding time!
Looking at ways to bond with your tween or teen? Here are some articles you need to read:
What To Do When Your Teen Resists Your Help
10 Steps On How To Mentor Troubled Teens
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