25 Best Audiobooks for Kindergarteners and Preschoolers

Reading books is a critical learning tool for kids of all ages. It can spark their imagination, build their vocabulary, and help improve their focus. The importance of reading as a tool to build a child’s basic literacy, reading skills, and promote their holistic development cannot be emphasized enough. As some kids may still be too young to start reading, parents often find themselves reading stories to kids before bedtime, but these kids are old enough to listen, consume, enjoy, and benefit from stories. And that’s where audiobooks come in! 

Why Audiobooks Are Important for Kids

Audiobooks are a great way to introduce children that haven’t developed a capacity for independent reading to stories that cultivate and sustain their interest in stories and reading. Engaging with storytelling allows children to better express their emotions and curiosity while developing their imagination, which are crucial for raising resilient kids to become inquisitive and lifelong learners that ask questions. 

But that’s not all! When it comes to convenience, audiobooks are hard to beat. They’re affordable and can be played anywhere and anytime. There’s a wide variety of audiobooks for kindergarteners and preschoolers that can help them cultivate a love for storytelling. Here are the best 25 audiobooks for kindergarteners and preschoolers that we expect your little ones to love!

Related Reading: Best Kindergarten Books to Read in Class

25 Best Audiobooks for Kindergarteners and Preschoolers

1. Narwhal and Jelly Collection, by Ben Clanton, read by Ben Clanton

Ben Clanton’s narration of his beloved Narwhal and Jelly books retain the same charm of the original graphic novels. We expect young listeners to enjoy the added sound effects that help bring their adventures to life without overshadowing the lessons on friendship and family that accompany Narwhal and Jelly adventures! If you’re looking for stories that are playful and full of heart, you can’t go wrong with this Narwhal and Jelly collection!

Listening length: 1 hour and 5 minutes

Target age: 5 to 8 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

2. Amelia Bedelia Audio Collection, by Peggy Parish, read by Suzanne Toren

Peggy Parish’s endearing tales about a quirky housekeeper follow her through adventures that see her overcoming challenges, making new friends, and saving the day. Whether it’s a story about Amelia showing up at a party with a garden hose, or one where she tries her hand at new jobs, Amelia’s adventures make for some of the best audiobooks for kindergartners! 

Listening length: 1 hour and 8 minutes

Target age: 5 to 8 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

3. Olivia Collection, by Ian Falconer, read by Dame Edna Everage

Ian Falconer’s New Year Times bestseller about the endearing pig, Olivia, offers kids a chance to follow her through her days as she sings songs, paints on walls, dances, builds sand castles, and of course, naps! Narrated by Dame Edna Everage, Olivia’s collection offers one of the best audiobooks for kindergarteners looking to make a new friend. Everyone’s favorite pig, Olivia, promises a magical listening and learning experience for the little ones! 

Listening length: 38 minutes

Target age: 3 to 5 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

4. The Princess in Black: Books 1- 3, by Shannon Hale and Dean Hale, read by Julia Whelan

When there’s a monster to defeat, who do we call? That’s right! Princess Magnolia! Whether she’s enjoying hot chocolate and scones with Duchess Wigtower after saving the day or escaping the guests at her party on her faithful pony, Blacky, Princess Magnolia always promises an adventure full of gripping moments, humorous encounters, and of course, evil monsters! Julia Whelan lends excitement and clarity to her narration of Princess Magnolia’s adventures, making them some of the best audiobooks for kindergarteners. 

Listening length: 55 minutes

Target age: 5 to 8 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

5. Llama LLama Red Pajama and 19 Other Favorites, by Anna Dewdney, read by Cassandra Campbell

If you’re looking for adorable bedtime stories that are sure to excite young listeners, your search ends with this collection of Llama Llama favorites by Anna Dewdney! Known for memorable, rhyming, read-aloud verses, listeners will enjoy hearing Mama Llama read stories to Baby Llama, plan holidays, and teach Baby Llama how to deal with Bully Goat. This collection delivers one of the best audiobooks for kindergartners! 

Listening length: 47 minutes

Target age: Up to 4 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

6. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr., read by Gwyneth Paltrow

Bill Martin Jr’s beloved bear offers young listeners sing-along nursery rhymes that are filled with warmth and humor. Brown Bear introduces children to new animals, colors, and words, promising adventures that are equally educational and engrossing. Narrated by Gwyneth Paltrow, Bill Martin Jr.’s beloved bedtime picture books translate perfectly into this medium, and this particular one emerges as one of the best audiobooks for kindergartners that you can get today! 

Listening length: 11 minutes

Target age: Up to 4 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

7. Dragons Love Tacos, by Adam Rubin, read by Adam Rubin

Your child probably hasn’t wondered how a dragon might like their tacos, but it’s certainly a thought they’d love having fun with! And that’s what Adum Rubin delivers in this fun, engaging, and deeply relatable story. Making use of descriptive vocabulary, his narration will help children discover new words like crispy, chunky, spicy, and smooth, among many others, and might even help kids build up an appetite for a snack! 

Listening length: 6 minutes

Target age: 5 to 8 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

8. The Tale of Peter Rabbit, by Beatrix Potter, read by George Gao

Many children in kindergarten and preschool are already familiar with the tales of Peter Rabbit, and this audiobook narrated by George Gao should serve as a great introduction to Beatrix Potter’s beloved rabbit for those that aren’t. This audiobook offers children a chance to join Mopsy, Flopsy, Cotton-tail, and of course, Peter, as they live their lives under the roots of a fir tree and hop out to go on adventures together! 

Listening length: 5 minutes 

Target age: Up to 4 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

Related Reading: Best Online Resources for Kids to Find Free eBooks

9. Clifford’s Good Deeds, by Normal Bridwell, read by Stephanie De A’bruzzo

If you’re looking for great audiobooks for kids, then Clifford the big red dog is here to save the day! Normal Bridwell’s beloved character offers children important lessons through fun stories, such as always striving to do good deeds for others, even if these efforts sometimes backfire. In this tale of Clifford’s many stories, his efforts backfire several times until he eventually manages to save two children from a burning house!  

Listening length: 5 minutes 

Target age: 5 to 8 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

10. The Day You Begin, by Jacqueline Woodson, read by Jacqueline Woodson

Back to school for preschoolers and kindergarteners is not easy. Jacqueline Woodson lends a helping hand to children that might be experiencing discomfort with this transition and can better inform kindergarteners and preschoolers about dealing with the challenges that lie ahead. This audiobook is essential listening for children that are about to start a new year, but feel free to put it on anytime you’re looking to delight your child with a listening experience that is relatable, moving, and memorable. 

Listening length: 5 minutes 

Target age: 5 to 8 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

11. Frog and Toad Audio Collection, by Arnold Lobel, read by Arnold Lobel

Whether they’re searching for a lost button, telling ghost stories, or eating more cookies than they should, beloved friends, Frog and Toad, offer both wisdom and delightful escape in their tales about companionship and adventure. Arnold Lobel lends humor and charm in his narration of his stories, making this collection one of the best audiobooks for kindergarteners! If your child loved the original picture books, rest assured that this audiobook should delight and entertain just as much. 

Listening length: 1 hour and 31 minutes 

Target age: 5 to 8 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

12. I Am Golden, by Eva Chen, read by Eva Chen

If you’re interested in introducing themes of identity, heritage, and culture to your child in a way that’s accessible, then this is the audiobook you’re looking for! It’s common for children to sometimes seek a sense of belonging and acceptance, particularly when they see more qualities that separate them from their peers than the ones they have in common. Eva Chen narrates this celebration of Chinese American identity through the story of a young girl named Mei. 

Listening length: 7 minutes 

Target age: Up to 4 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

13. Corduroy, by Don Freeman, read by Viola Davis

The heartwarming tale of Corduroy, the friendly teddy bear, comes to life in this audiobook narrated by Viola Davis and is the perfect treat for children looking for a refreshing bedtime story. The story follows Corduroy’s adventures inside a toy store before he’s adopted by a young girl. It introduces children to themes of friendship and family while touching upon the notion of imperfections and what makes them beautiful! 

Listening length: 7 minutes 

Target age: 5 to 8 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

14. Winnie the Pooh, by A.A. Milne, read by Richard Rieman

A.A. Milne invites young listeners to join Poo, Piglet, Eeyore, Kanga, Roo, Owl, Rabbit, and of course, Tigger, as they go on adventures that come with lessons on friendship, acceptance, honesty, and kindness. Richard Rieman narrates the lives of this band of misfits and promises young listeners a magical experience with every tale. 

Listening length: 3 hours and 1 minute 

Target age: Up to 4 years 

Price: Free with B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Barnes & Noble

15. Mercy Watson Collection by Kate DiCamillo, read by Ron McLarty

There’s nothing that Mercy won’t do in her purist of buttered toast, treats, and adventure! Whether it’s squeezing into a tutu, driving a car, or foiling a robbery, an adventure is always on the horizon. If you’re looking for an experience that will make young listeners squeal with joy, then Mercy Watson is the friend they’re looking for! Narrated by Ron McLarty, Katre  DiCamillo’s beloved pig tales are the perfect way to end the day.

Listening length: 40 minutes 

Target age: Up to 5 years

Price: Free with Audible 

Where to find it: Amazon

16. The Magic Tree House Series, by Mary Pope Osborne, read by Mary Pope Osborne

If your child’s eyes twinkle at the thought of adventure and escape, then Mary Pope Osborne’s classic Magic Tree House series is sure to delight! This collection sees Jack and Annie travel to the Middle Ages, ancient Egypt, medieval Japan, and even the Amazon! Whether they’re running away from pirates or tracking down a sabertooth, Jack and Annie promise to take listeners on memorable adventures full of learning and fun! 

Listening length: 6 hours and 1 minute

Target age: 5 to 8 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

17. Matilda, by Roald Dahl, read by Kate Winslet

Narrated by Kate Winslet, Roald Dahl’s Matilda is one of the best audiobooks for kids! It introduces listeners to the world of Matilda, a kind and exceptional young girl that doesn’t quite get along with her parents. Miss Trunchbull, a kid-hating headmistress, doesn’t make her life at school isn’t any better. Young listeners will be delighted with the charm with which Matilda navigates life’s challenges, picking up a lesson or two along the way.  

Listening length: 4 hours and 18 minutes

Target age: 5 to 8 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

Related Reading: Best Classic Fairy Tales For Your Kids’ Early Development

18. The Fancy Nancy Audio Collection, by Jane O’Connor, read by Chloe Hennessee

Featuring some of the most beloved Fancy Nancy titles, this extensive collection offers children a chance to discover Nancy and her world! Jane O’Connor offers a balanced portrayal of childhood, allowing Nancy to whine, stomp her feet, cry, and be mean to people around her, alongside moments where Nancy’s more considerate and kind. Chloe Hennesee’s narration should keep young listeners glued to Nancy and her adventures, while some might even develop an interest in learning French! 

Listening length: 3 hours and 56 minutes 

Target age: 5 to 8 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

19. Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa, by Erica Silverman, read by Elizabeth Morton

Cowgirl Kate and her horse, Cocoa, are inseparable. Kate is always ready with her cowboy hat and rawhide gloves to wrangle her cattle with Cocoa. Listeners will get to enjoy hearing Kate sharing stories with Cocoa as they ride across the range and their occasional detours for apples and a quick drink. Elizabeth Morton lends warmth to her narration that captures the spirit of loyalty and friendship that listeners will discover in the tales of Cowgirl Kate and Cocoa.

Listening length: 10 minutes 

Target age: 6 – 9 years

Price: Free with Audible

Where to find it: Amazon

20. James Herriot’s Treasury for Children: Warm and Joyful Tales, by James Herriot, Read by Jime Dale

Featuring colorful townsfolk and a host of adorable animals, James Herriot’s treasure offers warmth and humor that’s sure to please young listeners. Inspired by Herriot’s Yorkshire farmyard, these tales have become popular bedtime stories that teach children about both the joys and responsibilities that come with having a pet. This focus on animal care serves as a medium to introduce children to themes of ownership, friendship, and companionship of pets and animals.

Listening length: 1 hour and 31 minutes 

Target age: 4 – 8 years

Price: Free with Audible, $14.99 on Barnes & Noble

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

21. The Witches, by Roald Dahl, read by Lolly Adefope

One of the best audiobooks for kids, this Roald Dahl classic isn’t a fairytale. It’s about real witches! We expect this classic to encourage young listeners to let their imagination run free as they follow an orphan boy and his grandma on their magical adventures!

Listening length: 3 hours and 44 minutes

Target age: 5 – 11 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

22. The Wizard of Oz, by L. Frank Baum, read by Anne Hathaway

This L. Frank Baum’s classic is loved across generations and has been adapted to every medium of creative expression! To the delight of young listeners, that now includes audiobooks! Narrated by Anne Hathaway, this tale should stir the hearts and imagination of children as they follow a band of misfits on a journey across Emerald City. 

Listening length: 3 hours and 49 minutes (Barnes & Noble features a different version narrated by John McDonough, which runs 4 hours and 36 minutes long)

Target age: 5 – 11 years

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

23. The Very Hungry Caterpillar, by Eric Carle, read by Eric Carle

When it comes to the best audiobooks for preschoolers, Eric Carle’s narration of his very famous and very hungry caterpillar story takes the prize! He uses the lifecycle of a caterpillar to inform listeners about the different seasons, the colors they bring, and the sounds associated with them. This tale offers a sensory experience that children will remember long after Carle’s narration is over. 

Listening length: 8 minutes 

Target age: Up to 4 years 

Price: Free on Audible

Where to find it: Amazon

24. I Want My Hat Back, by Jon Klassen, read by Daniel Pinkwater

Bear’s hat is nowhere to be seen. None of his friends have seen it or know where it is. This Klassen story follows Bear as his spirit dwindles after losing his hat. Everything changes when he meets a deer that starts asking the right questions to spark Bear’s memory and help him track down his hat. This is a short but endearing tale that should captivate listeners.

Listening length: 6 minutes 

Target age: 5 to 8 years 

Price: Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

 Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

25. The Jesus Storybook Bible: Every Story Whispers his Name, by Sarah Lloyd-Jones, read by David Suchet

If you’re looking for Christian audiobooks for kids, your search ends here! Narrated by David Suchet, this collection of tales offers an impactful introduction to God’s story and the savior that’s central to this story.

Listening length: 3 hours and 22 minutes 

Target age: Up to 4 years

Price:  Free with both Audible and B&N Audiobooks

Where to find it: Amazon/Barnes & Noble

Related Reading: Best Reading Websites For Kids

Let’s Start Listening Today!

With so many wonderful audiobooks to choose from, which ones are you planning to share with your children? You can’t go wrong with any of these, so find your little ones and start listening today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How can I listen to these audiobooks if I don’t have an Audible or Barnes & Noble account?

You may have to order a CD of the audiobooks you’re interested in, provided that they’re available. You should be able to check if they are by clicking on the  ‘where to find it’ links we’ve shared.

Can audiobooks replace reading?

Audiobooks are not a substitute for reading. Reading is a crucial activity for children that helps them develop their reading comprehension and basic literacy. While audiobooks are a great way for children that haven’t developed a capacity for independent reading to enjoy stories, they cannot aid in the development of their reading comprehension and basic literacy the way reading does.