Podcast
Check this out! Podcast4kids
A podcast series for kids where we explore interesting people, places, ponderings and past moments from history that shape the world around us.
Listen to 5-25 minute episodes for fun facts, interactive celebrations of knowledge, and cool takeaways.
Appropriate for elementary aged kids (5-12 years old)
Hosted by Amy Contreras, featuring her daughter Cece
Amy has a BA of History from the University of Arizona and has spent her career in corporate Learning & Development, working at global organizations such as Uber, LinkedIn, and more.
Check this out! Podcast4kids covers topics such as historical figures, historical events, history questions, and more.
- Episodes
- 76
- Releases
- Weekly
- Typical length
- 15 min
- On air since
- 2025
- Latest episode
- 2 months ago
Episodes
76 episodes, newest first
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17 min
Albert Einstein (Scientists & Inventors)
Season 1, Episode 76
Show notes
🎙️ New Episode: Albert Einstein—The Curious Scientist Who Changed How We See the Universe!
Why is Albert Einstein famous—besides his unforgettable wild hair? In this fun, family-friendly episode of Check This Out! Podcast for Kids, listeners join Cece & Amy to explore the life, ideas, and lasting impact of one of history’s most influential scientists... Albert Einstein!
Kids will discover:
• How a compass at age five sparked Einstein’s fascination with invisible forces
• Why he loved geometry and called his childhood math book his “sacred little geometry book”
• How he went from dropping out of school to earning a PhD
• What Einstein’s “miracle year” was and why 1905 was so important
• The basic ideas behind special and general relativity
• How E = mc² connects mass and energy
• How a 1919 solar eclipse made Einstein a global celebrity
• Why his work helps explain GPS, stars, black holes, gravity, and more
• How Einstein’s Jewish heritage led him to flee Nazi Germany and begin a new life in the United States
• Why curiosity, persistence, and asking “What if?” can lead to world-changing discoveriesWith playful conversation, age-appropriate explanations, a multiple-choice guessing game, fascinating facts, and a memorable closing poem, this episode makes a complicated scientific topic approachable and exciting.
Parents and teachers: This episode is a great way to introduce children to physics, critical thinking, biography, world history, perseverance, and the importance of using credible, verified sources. Kids will learn that even the greatest scientists faced challenges—and that curiosity can take you anywhere.
Listen, learn, imagine, and subscribe for the next adventure in science and history!
#AlbertEinstein #EinsteinForKids #KidsPodcast #HistoryForKids #ScienceForKids #STEMForKids #PhysicsForKids #Relativity #EMC2 #FamousScientists #ScienceHistory #CuriosityAndLearning #EducationalPodcast #HomeschoolResources #ClassroomLearning #FamilyPodcast #KidsLearning #WomenAndMenInScience #CheckThisOutPodcast
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14 min
Dr Jane Goodall (Scientists & Inventors)
Season 1, Episode 75
Show notes
In another kid-friendly episode of Check This Out!, we explore the life and legacy of Dr. Jane Goodall — from her childhood love of animals in England to her groundbreaking 60-year study of wild chimpanzees at Gombe, Tanzania. Learn how Jane’s hands-on observations revealed tool use, hunting behavior, complex emotions, and unique personalities in chimpanzees, and how she later shifted from research to global conservation and activism.
We cover key milestones (meeting Dr. Leakey, earning a Ph.D. without an undergraduate degree, founding the Jane Goodall Institute and Roots & Shoots), fun stories for kids, and why her work matters today. Perfect for kids, teachers, and parents looking for an engaging, accurate introduction to animal behavior, conservation, and women in STEM. Sources: National Geographic, Britannica, Jane Goodall Institute, Achievement.org, History.com.
Call to action:
Subscribe to Check This Out! and visit the episode notes for links to sources and activities to learn more.Hashtags
#JaneGoodall #Chimpanzees #WildlifeConservation #KidsPodcast #ChildrensEducation #WomenInSTEM #GombeResearch #AnimalBehavior #RootsAndShoots #JaneGoodallInstitute #ScienceForKids #ConservationEducation #NatureStories #STEMforKids #kidhistorypodcast -
11 min
Dr Mae Jemison - Astronaut (Scientists & Inventors)
Season 1, Episode 74
Show notes
In this out of this world episode of the Check This Out! hosts Cece & her mom Amy explore the life and legacy of Dr. Mae Carol Jemison, the first African American woman to travel to space. Learn about childhood in Chicago, her early love of science, how she graduated high school at only 16, and her journey to Stanford and Cornell. Plus learn about her background that led to her becoming an astronaut like her medical career, Peace Corps service, and decision to apply to NASA. Learn how Sally Ride’s flight inspired her, how the Challenger tragedy delayed the astronaut program, and how Dr. Jemison was selected to be an astronaut in 1987 and flew on Space Shuttle Endeavour in 1992 as a science mission specialist.
The episode explains her experiments in space, 8-day mission details, personal mementos aboard Endeavour, fluency in several languages, post-NASA career (teaching, technology company, public speaking), awards and honors, and outreach work including an international science camp for teens. Includes fun facts (appeared on Star Trek), a recap poem, and guidance on citing verified sources. Ideal for children, parents, teachers, and anyone searching for an inspiring, accessible biography of Dr. Mae Jemison and resources for classroom use.
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23 min
International Women's Day
Season 1, Episode 73
Show notes
In the newest episode of "Check This Out! Podcast for Kids," hosts Cece and Amy celebrate International Women’s Day (a little late) with a fast-paced lightning round about eight remarkable women: Simone Biles, Misty Copeland, Billie Jean King, Maya Angelou, Queen Liliʻuokalani, Catherine the Great, and Empress Wu Zetian.
Through fun facts and simple explanations, listeners learn about each woman’s achievements, leadership, creativity, and barriers they broke, from sports and dance to literature and ruling nations, plus why their stories still matter today. The episode closes with a reminder about using verified sources and encourages kids to keep exploring history and celebrating strong role models.
#InternationalWomensDay #WomensHistoryForKids #KidsPodcast #STEMandArts #RoleModelsForKids #SimoneBiles #MistyCopeland #BillieJeanKing #MayaAngelou #QueenLiliuokalani #CatherineTheGreat #EmpressWuZetian
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19 min
The American Revolution
Season 1, Episode 72
Show notes
Something big happened in 1776 — it’s the United States’ birthday! Join Cece and special guest Madden as they explore the road to the American Revolution and the 250th anniversary coming in 2026.
We’ll explain why colonists got mad at Britain, meet the Founding Fathers, and hear about three major moments from the American Revolution: The Battle of Bunker Hill, George Washington crossing the Delaware, and the big win for the American Colonists at the Battle of Yorktown in 1781.
Plus you will enjoy quick trivia, a fun poem, and cool facts (like spies, Minute Men, and life in the colonies). We use trusted sources so you can learn the real story. Tune in, learn something new, and don’t forget to subscribe!
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11 min
What was the rosetta stone? (Ponderings
Season 1, Episode 71
Show notes
Summary:
In the final episode of our Ponderings series, hosts Amy & Cece explore the Rosetta Stone: what it is, how it was discovered, and why it mattered. Through a kid-friendly conversation the episode explains that the Rosetta Stone is a fragment of a decree written in three languages (hieroglyphics, Demotic, and ancient Greek), dated to 196 BC, and discovered by French soldiers near Rosetta (Rashid) in 1799. Our hosts discuss how the stone’s bilingual inscriptions let scholars—especially Thomas Young and Jean-François Champollion—decipher hieroglyphics after centuries of mystery, the stone’s journey to the British Museum, its wartime hiding, and other similar decrees found across Egypt. The episode closes with four quick facts and a short rhyme, plus a reminder about using verified sources.Key takeaways:
• The Rosetta Stone contains the same decree in hieroglyphics, Demotic, and ancient Greek.
• Carved in 196 BC for Ptolemy V; over 2,200 years old.
• Discovered by French forces in 1799 near Rashid (Rosetta); later ended up in the British Museum.
• Champollion and Young were central to deciphering Egyptian hieroglyphs using the Greek text.
• Several similar decree-stones exist; the Rosetta Stone is a key but partially preserved piece. -
17 min
What Was The Silk Road (Ponderings)
Season 1, Episode 70
Show notes
Join Amy & Cece as they explore the fascinating history of the Silk Road. The silk road changed the world. Along the silk road towns along grew into multicultural cities and there was an exchange of information that had never existed before.
All this travel along the silk road led to new technologies and innovations that would change the world. The horses introduced to China from the west contributed to the might of the Mongol Empire, while gunpowder from China changed the very nature of war in Europe and beyond. Tune in and listen along with Amy & Cece as they rhyme, explore, and trivia.
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12 min
What is the Bill of Rights? (Ponderings)
Season 1, Episode 69
Show notes
Join Amy & Cece as they explore another pondering in the most recent episode of Check This Out! Podcast 4 Kids. Together they explain the 10 amendments that make up the bill of rights, explain what they are and what they mean, and go into the history and importance of the bill of rights!
This history podcast is perfect for curious kids and their parents. Learn and have fun with interactive quizzes, a fun poem, and lots of fun facts. Learn about why the Bill of Rights was originally rejected by the Constitutional Congress and how many copies of the original Bill of Rights were made!
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13 min
Who were the Navajo (Diné) Code Talkers? (Ponderings)
Season 1, Episode 68
Show notes
Join Amy & Cece for another episode of Check this out! Podcast for kids. In this week's episode they dive into the pondering of who were the Navajo Code Talkers and what was their impact on World War 2?
Listeners will learn about the classified project that the code talkers participated in, that helped the US win in the Pacific Theater during WW2. Understand why the Najavo Code Talkers are also referred to as the Diné, which is the preferred name for the tribe.
With a fun poem, interesting facts, and insights into an important period in history this week's episode is a must listen!
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15 min
How did the Olympics Come to be? (Ponderings)
Season 1, Episode 67
Show notes
In Episode 67 of Check This Out — Podcast 4 Kids, hosts Cece and Amy explore how the Olympic Games began and evolved. From the first recorded Olympic Games in 776 BC at Olympia in Greece. The olympics are held every four years, and a long time ago this was to honor Zeus! Original Olympians were awarded olive-leaf crowns. Learn the story of the journey from the ancient olympics to the modern Summer and Winter Olympics revived in 1896 and expanded with the Winter Games in 1924. Cece and Amy cover who could compete in ancient times, key events like running, wrestling, boxing, pentathlon and the brutal pankration, the Olympic Truce, the decline under Roman rule and later rediscovery, and modern traditions such as medals and the torch relay (10,001 torchbearers planned for Milano Cortina 2026), plus fun facts about 16 Winter and 36 Summer sports and a short poem to help kids remember.
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17 min
Why did Ancient Egyptians Mummify their dead? (Ponderings)
Season 1, Episode 66
Show notes
In this episode of "Check This Out!", hosts Cece and her mom delve into the fascinating world of ancient Egyptian mummification. They explore the crucial question: Why did ancient Egyptians mummify their dead? Framed within their ongoing ponderings series about historical inquiries, the episode highlights the significance of ancient Egypt, a civilization that thrived for over 3,000 years, and what this meant for its cultural practices.
Listeners learn about the mummification process, which involved removing moisture from bodies to preserve them for the afterlife, emphasizing the religious belief that the deceased's soul would need a recognizable, intact body. Cece and her mom explain the intricacies of organ removal, embalming, and linen wrapping, as well as the roles of priests in these rituals. They also discuss the rich architectural legacy of ancient Egypt, notable pharaohs, and the importance of identifying verified historical sources.
The episode culminates in a fun, original poem that encapsulates the key lessons learned about mummification and ancient Egypt. Cece expresses her excitement for another insightful episode, inviting listeners to join them in future ponderings while encouraging them to subscribe for more educational content.
#ancientegypt #historypodcastforkids #mummies #egypt
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19 min
What was life like on the Oregon Trail (Ponderings)
Season 1, Episode 65
Show notes
In this exciting episode of "Check This Out! Podcast 4 Kids," Cece and her mom dive into the fascinating history of the Oregon Trail. They explore the challenges and adventures faced by pioneers during their 2,000-mile journey from Missouri to Oregon City in the 19th century. Listeners will learn about the hardships of traveling on the trail, including disease, weather, and the daily routines of those who embarked on this arduous trek. With discussions on Manifest Destiny, the California Gold Rush, and the trail's historical significance, this episode brings history to life in an engaging way for kids and parents alike.
Join Cece and her mom as they uncover the true stories behind the Oregon Trail and why it remains a pivotal chapter in American history.
#OregonTrail #HistoryForKids #Pioneers #ManifestDestiny #GoldRush #ChildrensPodcast #EducationalPodcast #AmericanHistory #KidFriendlyLearning #FamilyEducation
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16 min
What was the Bubonic Plague? (Ponderings)
Season 1, Episode 64
Show notes
Join us for an intriguing episode of "Check This Out!", the podcast that makes history fun for kids!
In today’s episode, Cece and her mom dive into the chilling world of the bubonic plague, also known as the Black Death. Discover what this historical epidemic was all about, how it dramatically changed Europe in the 14th century, and the surprising lessons that emerged from such dark times.
With engaging questions and a recap poem, this episode will take young listeners on a thrilling journey through history, exploring themes of change, courage, and the quest for knowledge. Get ready to learn and be inspired!
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19 min
What are Christmas Traditions around the world? (Ponderings)
Season 1, Episode 63
Show notes
In this festive episode of "Check This Out," Cece and her mom explore diverse Christmas traditions globally. They start with the history of Christmas trees, highlighting their journey from ancient times to Queen Victoria's influence in America.
The duo discusses unique customs like Spain’s Caga Tió, where kids sing to a log for treats, and Germany’s Advent calendar. They also explore Japan's KFC Christmas tradition, Mexico's Las Posadas celebration, Sweden's Yule Goat, and the spooky lore of Krampus, who punishes naughty children.
Cece’s fun facts and jokes add a joyful touch, and the episode concludes with a lighthearted poem summarizing their discoveries. Join them to celebrate the joy of Christmas traditions worldwide! Happy Holidays!
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14 min
What caused the Boston Tea Party? (Ponderings from History)
Season 1, Episode 62
Show notes
Welcome to episode 62 of Check This Out!, podcast for kids! In this exciting episode, Cece and her mom dive into the intriguing topic of the Boston Tea Party, exploring its causes and significance in American history.
They start by explaining what the Boston Tea Party was—an event where American patriots disguised as Mohawk Indians threw 342 cases of tea into Boston Harbor on December 16, 1773, as a protest against British taxation.
The discussion shifts to the underlying cause of the protest: "taxation without representation." Cece learns that American colonists were frustrated with being taxed by the British Parliament, in which they had no voice. They explore the historical context, including the fierce opposition by the Sons of Liberty and other patriots who fought for their rights.
Throughout the episode, Cece benefits from her mom’s explanations about taxation, representation, and the broader implications of the Tea Act. Listeners are also treated to a catchy poem summarizing the events, solidifying their understanding of this pivotal moment that contributed to the revolutionary spirit among the colonies.
Join Cece and her mom on this captivating journey of discovery about the Boston Tea Party—an event that transformed the fight for freedom in America! Don’t forget to subscribe for more enlightening episodes!
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13 min
Stevie Wonder (Artists and Musicians from History)
Season 1, Episode 61
Show notes
In this exciting episode of "Check This Out! Podcast for Kids," Cece introduces the incredible life and music of Stevie Wonder, a legendary American musician who began his career as a child prodigy. Listeners will discover how Stevie, who was born blind, started making music at just 11 years old, and how his unique talents led him to become one of the most successful artists in history.
We'll explore Stevie Wonder's remarkable journey, from his early days in Saginaw, Michigan, to his rise with Motown Records, producing hits like “Fingertips” and “Superstition.” Cece shares fascinating facts about his self-taught musicianship and advocacy for important causes, including his efforts to honor Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and promote racial harmony through music.
Learn how Stevie Wonder's music has touched generations and find out why he ranks alongside icons like The Beatles and Elvis Presley. Join us for a journey through Stevie's inspiring life, musical genius, and commitment to advocacy, making it a must-listen episode for aspiring young musicians and history enthusiasts alike!
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16 min
Michelangelo (Artists & Musicians from History)
Season 1, Episode 60
Show notes
In this exciting episode of 'Check this out!', hosts Cece and Amy dive into the fascinating life and legacy of Michelangelo, the renowned Renaissance artist!
From his humble beginnings as an apprentice in Florence to his towering achievements like the iconic statue of David and the breathtaking ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, listeners will discover how his works have shaped the art world for centuries.
Join Cece and Amy as they explore the creativity and determination of Michelangelo, sharing fun facts, discussing his various art forms, and even unraveling the secret of hidden self-portraits. Perfect for young learners and their families, this episode is a celebration of art, history, and the genius of one of the greatest artists of all time!
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15 min
The History of Thanksgiving
Season 1, Episode 59
Show notes
Join Amy & Cece for a special extra episode on the history of Thanksgiving in the United States!
In this special episode of “Check this out!”, hosts Cece and Amy dive into the true history behind Thanksgiving, exploring its origins and significance beyond the common myths. With Thanksgiving approaching in the United States, they start by discussing the first Thanksgiving feast in 1621 between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe, shedding light on the complexities and challenges surrounding the celebration.
Cece and Amy address popular misconceptions about Thanksgiving, including the myth of a friendly encounter between the Pilgrims and Native Americans, emphasizing that Native Americans had been living on the land for thousands of years and were impacted by European arrivals long before the Pilgrims came. They highlight the pivotal role of Squanto and the Wampanoags in helping the Pilgrims survive their first year in America and detail how the initial alliance between the two groups evolved into long-term conflict.
The episode also covers how Thanksgiving transitioned into a national holiday, tracing its journey from local festivals to Abraham Lincoln's proclamation of a national day of thanks in 1863. Throughout the discussion, Cece and Amy encourage listeners to understand and honor the real stories behind the holiday, including the impact on Indigenous communities.
The episode concludes by inviting families to reflect on their own Thanksgiving traditions while keeping the rich history in mind. Listeners are encouraged to learn more about Indigenous tribes and their heritage.
Join Cece and Amy for this insightful exploration of Thanksgiving, filled with important lessons about history, community, and gratitude. Don't forget to subscribe for more episodes of “Check this out!”
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11 min
Georgia O'Keefe (Artists & Musicians from History)
Season 1, Episode 58
Show notes
In this episode of Check This Out, we explore the captivating life and art of Georgia O'Keeffe, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Join Cece and Ellie as they dive into Georgia's journey from a young girl in Wisconsin with a passion for painting to a revolutionary figure in modern art.
Learn how Georgia's large, vibrant paintings of flowers and breathtaking southwestern landscapes changed the art world and paved the way for future female artists. Discover her struggles and triumphs, including her groundbreaking success in a male-dominated field and the strong relationships that supported her career, such as her marriage to photographer Alfred Stieglitz.
Hear about her love for the New Mexico desert, the creative evolution she experienced throughout her life, and how her impactful works continue to inspire artists today. Plus, stick around for a fun poem celebrating Georgia's legacy!
Don't miss the opportunity to learn about this remarkable artist who showed the world that art can be bold, beautiful, and deeply personal. Tune in to find out why Georgia O'Keeffe is a name that lives on in the art community!
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20 min
Leonardo Da Vinci (Artists and Musicians from History)
Show notes
In this exciting episode, we explore the life and legacy of one of the greatest artists and inventors of all time—Leonardo da Vinci! Through fun clues and questions, we discover how Leonardo was much more than a painter—he was a true Renaissance man, skilled in art, science, engineering, and invention. We learn about his famous paintings like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper, his innovative ideas, and his many friendships and adventures across Italy and France. Cece shares interesting facts, like Leonardo’s left-handedness, and we hear the wild story of the theft of the Mona Lisa! Join us as we celebrate Leonardo’s curiosity, creativity, and incredible influence on the world. Plus, we end with a special poem to help remember all about this amazing artist!
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