Podcasts started back the 1980s but really didn’t take off until the 2000s. Now, it seems that there are podcasts for just about every topic you can think of. While many podcasts are geared towards adults, there are a lot of podcasts that children and teens will enjoy.

If you’re going to do some traveling in the car with your children, perhaps you could suggest that everyone listens to a podcast together. They are a great way to engage your children in discussions and can provide hours of entertainment. Here are some great family-friendly podcasts to check out:

Story Pirates: This is a great podcast that takes stories submitted by children and turns them into an extremely funny podcast. Often the storytellers are actors, comedians or musicians and they make these stories come to life. Everyone will love listening to this great podcast.

What If World: Eric O’Keefe is the storyteller behind What If World. He tells stories such as: What if cats ruled the world? What if a tiny dragon lived in my closet? Your kids will love the creative stories and might even start thinking up their very own “What If” stories. If they have an idea for a What If World story they can call and leave a message at 205-605-WHAT.

Brains On! Do you and your children love science and find that you are often looking up the answers to interesting science questions? Then check out Brains On!. They have lots of great episodes tackling everything from roller coasters to dreams.

But Why: This is another great science podcast where your children can submit questions to be featured on But Why. Do you want to learn why giraffes have purple tongues or why spiders don’t get stuck in their webs – this podcast can tell you!

The Past and the Curious: This podcast is all about history. You and your children can learn about the Pony Express, hot dogs, the Statue of Liberty and a whole bunch of other great topics. Each episode is about 30 minutes long, and you’ll learn some great information.

The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel: This podcast is geared for middle school students and performed by middle school students – making it very popular with that age group. It’s a great mystery story that will have your kids quickly asking for the next episode.

Snap Judgement: Snap Judgement says that it “mixes real stories with killer beats to produce cinematic, and dramatic radio.”  Kids will love the stories and the music.

The Radio Adventures of Dr. Floyd: This is the longest running professionally produced audio drama podcast. Over eight seasons you get to know Dr. Floyd as he tries to thwart the evil plans of his nemesis, Dr. Steve. You’ll also learn some interesting facts and information about history and literature as you listen.

#WhoWouldWin: Have you ever played the game “Who Would Win” where you pick two characters and discuss who would win if they were to go to battle? For example, Who would win: Mighty Mouse or Mickey Mouse? This podcast does just that using characters from science fiction, fantasy, and comic books. For example, they have a podcast dedicated to Who Would Win: Batman vs. Captain America. You can listen to the debate and then have your very own discussion.

Wait Wait…Don’t Tell Me; This podcast is produced by NPR and is a weekly current events quiz. You’ll laugh and test your knowledge all while trying to figure out what’s real and what’s not.

Whether you’re traveling to Grandma’s house for a visit or heading off on vacation, podcasts are a great way to pass some time in the car. Try one of these podcasts the next time your family gets in the car and starts driving – you might find the whole family engaged in some great conversation after listening to one.