For parents who love to have music playing for their young children, but may be tired of the same CDs, Kids Public Radio is an excellent resource. Playing free kids' tunes as well as stories, this rich variety is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Free Online Music and Stories Based on Public Radio Values
KPR was started by a group of volunteer parents and children. They recognized the need for good children's radio programming that embrace the types of values displayed on public radio. In that light, KPR is committed to providing programming which is educational, culturally diverse, intelligent, and value-based. Parents will not find content which references violence or commercialism as often found within kids' programs.
Channels on Kids Public Radio are created by combining old and new programming from a variety of public radio channels and other sources. In addition to music and stories, there are special programs such as news and educational content, always ad-free.
KPR also provides links to other children's radio programming. Some of these include That's the Story, playing music from New Zealand, Radijojo, playing kids' music in German, and Hip Young Parent Radio, playing songs from Los Angeles. Many of the linked programs are ad-free as well.
KPR Includes Stories, News, Comedy, and Fun Music for Kids
Kids Public Radio introduced its first two channels, Lullaby and Jabberwocky, in 2008. The Lullaby channel plays a variety of lullaby music featuring several hosts. One example is the Classical Catnap show, hosted by "Cuddlebumps, the sleepy kitty." Families can also tune in to the Pajamas show, featuring classical jazz lullabies and Sleepy Planet, with soothing music from around the globe.
Jabberwocky is a channel with stories geared toward kids ages 2-8. Children love to be read to, and this channel features stories 24/7. Also hosted by a variety of individuals, families can tune in to Rabbit Ears Radio, playing classic tales, or Pickleberry Pie, which is a musical kids' comedy show. There are also several shows hosted by children, who are the storytellers.
The latest channel, Pipsqueaks, plays music sung by kids. On this channel, children are able to write, sing, and submit their own songs to be played. It is fun for kids to hear songs sung by other kids, and they can even contribute their own.
Kids Public Radio is Volunteer-Based
There are many ways to contribute to KPR. Since the entire operation is run by volunteers, donations make it all possible. There is a link to provide a tax deductible donation on the site. Additionally, under the "Parents" link at the bottom of the home page, there is a listing of ways for kids contribute their own material. For example, children can be recorded telling a story, singing a song, interviewing someone, or telling the news. Material can then be submitted to the show.
Kids Public Radio is an excellent resource for parents wanting good, wholesome programming for their children. Commercial-free music and stories played 24/7, KPR will provide families with endless entertainment.
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