If you have kids and live in a North American suburb, chances are you spend a lot of time in your car.
Oy, the agony of being stuck in rush hour traffic with three restless and squabbling children. On the other hand, being “stuck” in the car has its advantages.
Sometimes the best conversations about life happen on the drive between school and music lessons.
Sometimes kids will listen to audio materials they might not listen to at home.
I like to experiment with different kinds of music and audio-educational materials in the car. Might as well turn the car into a “classroom”, while keeping it fun.
Here are some audio resources the kids have enjoyed:
HISTORY
The Story of The World: History narrated as if it were a story is appealing to kids. Folktales from various cultures are incorporated. A series that covers earliest history to modern times. Ages 7+
MYTHOLOGY
Tales from the Odyssey narrated by Mary Pope Osborne. Osborne is best known for her Magic Tree House series, but I like this series even more. Here, she narrates her favourite ancient Greek myths for kids. Highly recommended. Ages 6+
POETRY
Where the Sidewalk Ends narrated by the poet, Shel Silverstein. Silverstein’s style of reciting poetry is unique, and brings the poems to life. Love this one! Ages 5+
CLASSICAL COMPOSERS
Mr. Bach Comes to Call by Classical Kids. Adventures begin when JS Bach pops in on a little girl as she practices piano. Bach’s music is woven throughout the adventure, as listeners also learn about the composer’s life. Classical Kids has several composers in the series, but Bach is my kids’ favourite. Ages: 5-10
MUSIC
Legends of Gypsy Flamenco. Ole! Kids get exposure to music of another culture, and you keep your sanity while not listening to Justin Bieber. Try Celtic, Klezmer, Brazilian, or whatever you like!
SILLY STORY
I Stink! A garbage truck loves his stinky self, as he goes around the city describing all the wonderful garbage he collects. It’s a day in the life. Needless to say, my son loves it. The narration and jazzy music are just great. (The audio book is not pictured here, but is available.) Ages: 4-8
I hope I’ve given you some ideas to make your shlepping time a little more interesting!
If you’re looking for more ideas for younger kids, visit ThinkMagnet’s post “Back Seat Learners,” which was the inspiration for my post.
Please share any tips and resources you’ve found to educate and entertain your kids while driving.
4 comments
naomi says:
May 7, 2012 at 12:25 pm (UTC -6 )
Great resources. Thanks for sharing!
educationdiva says:
May 7, 2012 at 12:27 pm (UTC -6 )
Thank you! Let me know which ones you enjoy.
Shelisa says:
May 8, 2012 at 11:27 am (UTC -6 )
Hi Ruth!
Thanks for the shout out! I loved your suggestions. As much as I love Shel Silverstein, I do not own a single one of his CDs…that needs to change!
educationdiva says:
May 8, 2012 at 3:03 pm (UTC -6 )
Hi Shelisa,
You’re welcome! You do need to own a Shel Silverstein. His voice and style are unforgettable!