Story-time apps and podcasts are a favourite around here – perfect for winding down near bedtime. They’re perfect for when the day has been long, and you just want to relax with your child. They help us to slow down, and enjoy the moments before bedtime, even more, inciting calm into the routine, and skipping the ‘rushing between reading’ while managing multiple children, and multiple bedtimes.
CALM
There are two options for the CALM app: meditative stories and white noise, like traditional ocean waves. The meditative stories for sleep are available in the free version of the app, with more stories available for the paid, subscription-based version, at $15/month. The stories begin at a usual pace, and progress to a slower pace, and soothing voices, as it continues. Try to stay awake during these stories that range between fifteen to twenty-four minutes.
Bonus: there are plenty of stories for adults too!
Circle Round
Circle Round, a storytelling podcast for kids ages 3 to 10, tells carefully-selected folktales from around the world with an eye towards inclusivity. Stories are adapted for today’s families into 10 to 20 minute diverse episodes that delve into topics such as kindness, persistence and generosity. The podcasts can be easily downloaded using an application on your phone, and are available to listen to over and over. There are currently eleven stories available.
Story Pirates
Story Pirates is a group of world-class actors, comedians, improvisers and musicians who adapt stories written by kids into sketch comedy and musical theater. They’re currently working on season two, but the full first season is available.
Stories Alive
The Stories Alive podcast is a partnership between JPR and Stories Alive. The podcast is a fun, unique audio theatre experience for all ages. Each episode features three to four amazing, original stories written by elementary students. Stories Alive brings them to life with professional actors, sound designers and musicians. Randall the Reading Rat is your host, along with his good friends, Nut, Bolt, and the Story Machine.
Eleanor Amplified
Buckle up! Your car is headed for… adventure! Eleanor Amplified is a radio adventure series for the whole family. Listen together as world-famous radio reporter Eleanor foils devious plots, outwits crafty villains, and goes after The Big Story. Eleanor’s pursuit of truth takes her into orbit, out to sea, through a scary jungle and even to the halls of Congress!Like all the public media shows you love, Eleanor Amplified is entertaining and informative. Eleanor defends the very values you expect from high-quality journalism.