The Past and the Curious: A History Podcast for Kids and Families

Fun and engaging history podcast for the whole family.
Did we miss something on diversity?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by suggesting a diversity update.
Suggest an Update
A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this podcast.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that The Past and The Curious is an educational and entertaining history podcast that the whole family can enjoy. The host, Mick Sullivan, and his guests tell true stories about important (but sometimes forgotten) people and movements in history. Some of the episodes include humorous, little-known anecdotes about figures like P.T. Barnum, or share innovations in the history of underwear. Stories of immigrants, women, and people of diverse backgrounds get the attention that they don't always receive in history books. Themes of determination and ingenuity are woven throughout the stories. The content is appropriate for ages 6 and up, though slightly older kids may get the most out of this podcast. Still, all ages are sure to enjoy the lively storytelling, quizzes, and songs.
Community Reviews
interesting facts, valuable lessons and a feel-good mood booster
Report this review
What’s It About?
Each episode of THE PAST AND THE CURIOUS weaves together stories of people and events in history, often in an unexpected way. Stories that at first seem to be about fashion or bicycle racing are also about the women's suffrage movement. Background information and context are always clearly provided, so you don't need any prior knowledge about the topic. "Quiz time" takes place in the middle of the episode, and it's a great way for the host to share fun facts in quiz form. Every episode ends with a song that's related to the topics covered in the episode, performed either by the host or a musical guest.
Is It Any Good?
If you're after a thoughtful and engaging history podcast for kids and adults alike, you can't go wrong with this one. The Past and The Curious manages to inform and entertain, using well-told stories to give listeners insight into people's lives throughout history. The host, Mick Sullivan, does a great job of connecting the stories, quiz questions, and music around a theme. The podcast really makes you think about whose stories get told, why it's important to learn about the past, and how learning about history can be fun.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the types of stories chosen for The Past and The Curious. What makes them relevant or interesting to us today?
Why have some groups' stories traditionally been left out of history books? Why do you think their stories are less well known?
Why is it important for us to learn about people and events so far in the past? How do these stories help us shape our future?
Podcast Details
- Release date: October 1, 2016
- Genre: History
- Average Run Time: 30 minutes
- Website: https://thepastandthecurious.com/
- Host: Mick Sullivan
- Publisher: Independent
- Pricing structure: Free
- Topics: History, Music and Sing-Along
- Last updated: July 1, 2022
Our Editors Recommend
For kids who love history
Themes & Topics
Browse titles with similar subject matter.
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
See how we rate