Explore every episode of the podcast Carpool Classroom

• World News This Week

January 17-23

What's happening in the world - and how can kids understand it?

In this episode of World News This Week, kids ages 5-10 explore three real news stories, explained clearly and thoughtfully:

• / Why the Northern Lights were seen in Ireland - and the science behind this beautiful sky event

• How communities across the U.S. honored Martin Luther King Jr. Day through service and kindness

• How families around the world celebrate Vietnamese New Year and welcome a fresh start

This episode builds science knowledge, historical understanding, and global awareness — without fear or persuasion.

Perfect for car rides, family listening, and curious kids who want to understand the world they live in.

Episode: January 10-16, 2026

What's happening in the world right now — and how can kids understand it?

In this episode of World News This Week, we explore three real news stories from around the globe, explained clearly and calmly for kids ages 5-9.

This week, listeners will learn:

• Why Jupiter appeared brighter and closer in the night sky during a special moment called opposition

• IN How scientists and communities in Indonesia respond to heavy rain, flooding, and natural events

• * What the BLR Habba Festival is and how people in India celebrate art, music, and community This episode builds science knowledge, global awareness, and curiosity — without fear or persuasion.

Perfect for car rides, family listening, and helping kids understand the world they live in.

This week on World News This Week, we explore how scientists study our world — past, present, and planet.

In this episode, kids will learn:

• What archaeologists do and how they carefully uncover clues from the past

• Why January 8 is Earth's Rotation Day and how Earth's movement creates day and night

• How meteorologists track severe winter weather and help communities prepare

This calm, factual episode helps kids connect current events to science, history, and real life — without fear or persuasion.

Because kids don't just live in the world.

They deserve to understand it.

Welcome to the very first episode of World News This Week, a new weekly series from Carpool Classroom designed especially for kids ages 5-9.

Each week, we explore real news from the real world - not to scare kids or persuade them, but to help them understand what's happening around them with clarity, calm, and curiosity.

In this episode, kids will learn:

• How money works differently around the world and why Bulgaria changed its currency

• What the World Health Organization is and how countries work together to protect people's health

• What scientists are learning by watching the moon and meteor showers in the night sky

This episode builds background knowledge, encourages critical thinking, and reminds kids that the world is always changing — and always worth understanding.

Perfect for car rides, quiet listening, and family conversations.

Follow the journey of a bite of pizza from start to finish!

- Why Do We Fart?

Let's be honest... everyone does it! But have you ever wondered why? In this hilarious (and surprisingly scientific!) episode of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson dives into the science behind farts — what they are, how they happen, and what they tell us about our amazing digestive systems.

Kids will learn:

• Why our bodies make gas

• What foods cause more farts (and why that's actually a good thing!)

• How to use context clues to understand new science words

• Why asking questions — even funny ones - helps us become better readers and thinkers

Get ready to laugh, learn, and say "Excuse me!" with confidence. Because talking about how our bodies work? That's smart science!

Carpool Classroom — real learning, real fun, for curious kids on the go!

Buckle up—it's time for a spooky-fun ride in the Carpool Classroom!

In this episode, we'll explore the history behind Halloween, discover the most popular costumes of all time (and the top picks for 2025!), learn about record-breaking pumpkins, and uncover the sweetest candy facts around. It's a perfect mix of fun facts, fascinating history, and reading comprehension practice all wrapped up in one engaging episode for curious kids!

Dive deep with Mrs. Nelson in this final episode of the Pacific Northwest Ocean Life series! Explore the mysterious world of the ocean floor-where crabs scuttle, sea stars glide, and octopuses hide in rocky crevices. Kids will learn who lives at the bottom of the sea, how they survive in the dark, and why these animals are so important to keeping the ocean healthy.

Along the way, Mrs. Nelson models key second-grade reading strategies-like using context clues, finding cause and effect, and summarizing what we've learned —to help listeners become stronger nonfiction readers.

It's a fascinating underwater adventure that wraps up the whole series with wonder, discovery, and a reminder that everyone can help protect our ocean home. 💙

In this episode of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson heads to the rocky shores of the Pacific Northwest to help listeners finally tell the difference between seals and sea lions!

We'll learn what makes these marine mammals similar, what makes them unique, and practice one of the most important second-grade reading strategies comparing and contrasting. Through vivid storytelling, you'll discover why seals wiggle on their bellies, how sea lions walk on their flippers, and which one loves to bark the loudest!

Perfect for curious kids (and parents!) who want to learn while they listen—no screens required.

Carpool Classroom turns every car ride into a learning adventure.

Dive beneath the surface with Mrs. Nelson to meet the incredible orcas of the Pacific Northwest! In this episode, listeners will explore the family bonds of the J-Pod, discover how orcas communicate, and learn why these black-and-white beauties are a keystone species in their ocean ecosystem.

Along the way, kids will practice key second-grade reading strategies - like finding the main idea, using context clues, and making connections — all while being swept up in a story of science, sound, and sea life.

Perfect for curious minds (and short car rides), this episode brings the wonder of marine biology and literacy together in one unforgettable ocean adventure.

Dive deep with Mrs. Nelson in this ocean-sized adventure all about one of the smartest creatures under the sea — the octopus!

In this episode, we'll explore how octopuses use their eight arms, three hearts, and big brains to solve problems, camouflage, and escape danger. Listeners will learn fascinating facts about their anatomy, nervous system, and defense tricks — plus the legend of the giant Pacific octopus said to live beneath the Tacoma Narrows Bridge!

Along the way, Mrs. Nelson models powerful reading comprehension strategies — like asking questions, finding main ideas and key details, and using context clues to understand new vocabulary words.

This episode connects science and literacy in one exciting underwater journey.

Perfect for curious second graders and ocean lovers everywhere!

Get ready to dive into one of nature's most amazing journeys!

In this episode of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson follows the salmon's life from egg to ocean and back again — exploring how these incredible fish transform, travel thousands of miles, and help keep forests and rivers alive.

Along the way, listeners will learn key reading strategies like sequencing and summarizing, discover what a keystone species is, and find out why salmon are true heroes of the ecosystem.

Perfect for curious kids (and parents who love to learn, too!) — this story will leave you hooked. 🎣

Where does electricity really come from?

In this episode of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson takes listeners on a thrilling start-to-finish journey through the world of electricity! From windy hilltops with giant turbines to the wires above our streets, kids will discover how energy is made, transformed, and delivered all the way to their homes.

Along the way, Mrs. Nelson models powerful reading comprehension strategies—like visualizing, questioning, clarifying, and summarizing—to help second graders build understanding as they explore this complex (and shockingly cool!) topic.

Key Concepts:

• ​ How energy is created using wind, water, and sunlight
• ​ The role of power lines and transformers
• ​ Why electricity travels so fast
• ​ How it safely reaches our homes and powers our devices
• ​ Reading strategies for understanding informational texts

Perfect for curious minds who love to ask "how does that work?"

Get ready for a purr-fectly fascinating ride in this special edition of Carpool Classroom! l Mrs. Nelson takes listeners on a journey into the mysterious and adorable world of cats — answering all the big questions kids have!

Why do cats have whiskers? Why do their eyes glow in the dark? Do they remember people they love? And what's the deal with their obsession with boxes?Along the way, listeners will learn powerful reading and thinking strategies - like how to use context clues, ask questions, and summarize key details — all while exploring real science facts about one of kids' favorite animals.

Whether you have a cat at home or just love learning about them, this episode will have you saying "me-wow!"

* Screen-free learning that's fun, curious, and filled with science and literacy magic — only on Carpool Classroom!

Ever wonder why the trees burst into color every fall? In this special edition of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson takes you on a cozy autumn drive to discover how and why leaves change color, what makes them green, and what happens after they fall.

Along the way, listeners will explore fascinating science concepts like chlorophyll, photosynthesis, and decomposition — and practice powerful reading strategies for understanding tricky words and informational texts

It's a colorful mix of learning and wonder — perfect for your drive to school, practice, or a pumpkin patch!

^ Screen free learning that feels like storytime.

In this inspiring finale, Mrs. Nelson brings history to the present day — exploring America's symbols, freedoms, and the people who make it shine. Students will reflect on what it means to live in the United States today and how history continues to shape our lives. A thoughtful conclusion to the series that celebrates unity, diversity, and curiosity.

Why do we celebrate the Fourth of July with fireworks, flags, and parades? Mrs. Nelson explains the history of Independence Day and how it marks America's first steps as a free nation. This festive episode helps students connect past and present while identifying the main idea and supporting details in informational texts.

Ever wonder what it means to be a state?

In this episode, Mrs. Nelson explores how the original colonies became states and what powers each one has today. Kids will learn how state and national governments work together - and why every star on the flag represents something important.

Meet the brave individuals who helped shape a new nation - George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Paul Revere, and more! Mrs.

Nelson brings history to life with storytelling that highlights leadership, bravery, and collaboration.

Students will learn how to identify key people, their roles, and how their choices made a difference.

Join Mrs. Nelson as we unravel the story behind one of America's most recognizable symbols — the flag! Discover who designed it, what the stars and stripes mean, and how it became a symbol of unity and pride.

Through lively storytelling and rich visuals, kids will learn how to find key details and ask meaningful questions while exploring the red, white, and blue.

The Seattle Mariners are back in the playoffs for the first time in 24 years — and that's a big deal! In this special Carpool Classroom episode, Mrs. Nelson takes listeners on a journey through the history of Seattle's hometown team, from legendary players like Ken Griffey Jr. and Ichiro Suzuki to the excitement of today's postseason chase.

Along the way, kids will learn reading strategies that help them understand real-world informational texts - like asking questions, noticing key details, and understanding how events build over time. It's an unforgettable mix of sports, storytelling, and learning — all while cheering on the Mariners!

Perfect for car rides, classroom listening, or getting hyped before the big game.

Let's go, Mariners!

This episode tells the story of rising tensions with Britain, protests like the Boston Tea Party, the first battles at Lexington and Concord, and the Declaration of Independence. Mrs. Nelson weaves cause-and-effect thinking and sequencing into the narrative so kids can understand why the colonies sought independence and how the Revolution unfolded.

From Jamestown to Plymouth and across New England, the Middle, and Southern regions, Mrs. Nelson describes who came to the colonies, why they came, and how life differed by place. Listeners hear about early self-government, daily work, and how geography shaped communities — with explicit modeling of comparing, sequencing, and finding supporting details.

Set sail in 1492 with Christopher Columbus and his crew as Mrs. Nelson explains why people explored, what Columbus hoped to find, and what he actually encountered in the Caribbean. The episode keeps the history age-appropriate and models key nonfiction reading moves: sequencing events, asking why things happened, and thinking about cause and effect.

Long before colonies or flags, Native American peoples lived across this land for thousands of years. Mrs. Nelson explores how different tribes lived, the homes they built, how they used the land, and how storytelling passed knowledge across generations. Along the way she models reading skills - asking questions, visualizing, and connecting details to a main idea.

What happens after the plane lands? In our series finale, Mrs.Nelson follows travelers through customs, luggage claim, and their first Steps into a new country. Along the way, listeners learn how to ask questions, infer meaning, and compare new experiences-all key reading strategies that help them explore texts— and the world—with curiosity and confidence.

Fasten your seatbelt— it's time for a long-haul adventure! In this episode, Mrs. Nelson takes listeners across time zones and oceans to discover what happens on international flights.

Kids learn about pilots, cabin crew, in-flight technology, and how travelers adapt to jet lag-all while practicing compare. and contrast, finding key details, and asking great questions as they listen.

Where does your suitcase go after you check it in? Mrs.

Nelson takes kids on a behind-the-scenes adventure to follow their luggage through conveyor belts, scanners, and underground tunnels before it reappears at baggage claim. Along the way, she models visualization, sequencing, and

summarizing-reading superpowers that help listeners make sense of informational texts!

Airports are like small cities buzzing with activity-and in this episode, Mrs. Nelson takes listeners behind the scenes to see who works there and how everything runs so smoothly! From check-in to security to the control tower, kids will explore each part of the airport and learn how readers ask "who, what, where, when, why, and how" to make sense of non-fiction information

Ever wondered how airplanes stay in the Sky? In this episode, Mrs. Nelson takes listeners high above the clouds to discover the forces of flight— lift, drag, thrust, and weight! Through storylike explanations and easy-to-imagine examples (like holding your hand out a car window), kids will learn how science and reading strategies work together to explain the world around us.

Step up to the plate! * In this episode, Mrs. Nelson introduces baseball and shows how to find the main idea and supporting details in a nonfiction text. Learn about the field, the rules, and some of the game's greatest players.

What will roads look like tomorrow? In this final episode of the Carpool Classroom Traffic and Roadways series, Mrs. Nelson takes listeners on a ride into the future. Discover who is inventing new road technology, what changes might be coming, where they're being tested, when they could arrive, why they matter, and how they'll be built. From self-driving cars to glow-in-the-dark paint, this episode wraps up the series with a look ahead-and a review of everything we've learned about asking who, what, where, when, why, and how questions to understand nonfiction.

Why are some road lines white and some yellow? Why are some solid and others dashed? In this episode of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson helps young listeners discover the hidden language of lane markings and road paint. Learn who decides where the lines go, how workers paint them, what the different colors and shapes mean, and how they keep drivers safe every single day. With fun think-alouds and clear explanations, kids will practice asking who, what, where, when, why, and how questions while exploring the painted rules that guide our roads.

Ever wondered how cars, buses, and trucks cross rivers, valleys, or even mountains? In this episode of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson takes young listeners on an exciting journey into the world of bridges and tunnels. Learn who designs and builds them, what materials and machines are used, where famous bridges and tunnels can be found, and how engineers solve tricky problems to keep everyone safe.

Packed with fascinating facts, think-alouds, and clear explanations, this episode helps kids practice asking who, what, where, when, why, and how questions while exploring these amazing feats of engineering.

Stop! Yield! Speed limit 25! Have you ever wondered what all those signs and signals on the road really mean? In this episode of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson guides young listeners through the colorful world of road signs, traffic lights, and signals. Discover who decides where signs go, how speed limits are determined, and why some intersections use roundabouts instead of stoplights. With fun examples, think-alouds, and engaging explanations, kids will learn to ask who, what, where, when, why, and how questions while exploring the rules that keep our roads safe.

Ever hit a pothole on the way to school or the park and wondered how it got there or how it gets fixed? In this episode of Carpool Classroom, Mrs. Nelson takes young listeners on a journey to uncover the secrets behind our roads! Learn who decides where roads go, who builds them, what materials are used, and why potholes happen. You'll even discover the step-by-step process crews use to repair them. Packed with fascinating facts, fun think-alouds, and real-world connections, this episode helps kids practice asking who, what, where, when, why, and how questions while exploring the bumpy world of potholes.

Chances are you’ve heard about an axolotl-but what actually is it?! Where does it come from?! Learn everything there is to know about an axolotl while practicing informational text strategies for learning Who, What, Where, When, Why and How