Class Is in Session and So is Audio: Tuning in for the Back-to-School Season

It’s the end of the summer—which means longer days are waning, the scent of freshly sharpened pencils fills the air, and families across the country are preparing for the back-to-school season. This period marks a return to routines filled with school supplies, schedules, and a flurry of activities. Audio is at the core of these routines—a powerful tool that seamlessly integrates into daily life, offering support, motivation, and connection.

Here’s how audio powers the daily routines of both parents and students during the bustling school season—and how advertisers can get in on the action.

Reduce Morning Madness—Start the Day Right With Audio

For parents, the day begins with the early morning rush. Between preparing breakfast, packing lunches, and getting kids ready for school, mornings can be Cheaper By the Dozen-level chaotic. Luckily, audio serves as an essential companion during this time. Among surveyed parents, 79% say music improves their mood—which we can all agree is in dire need of a boost when running low on sleep or before the first cup of joe. Music and podcasts set a positive tone for the busy day ahead, providing both a motivational boost and a calming presence. For some, this might be the time to catch up on the latest episode of SiriusXM Urban View, hit play on Radio Andy, or get updates from Mad Dog Sports Radio. 

Students’ morning routines may be slightly less frantic but equally important. In fact, students are 13% more likely to listen to audio while getting ready for the day. Whether it’s tuning into their favorite morning playlist to feel energized for a day of classes and club meetings, or listening to a podcast to get in the zone for an upcoming exam, audio helps them wake up and start their day on a positive note. 

From Studying to Working: Enhancing Productivity Through Tunes

As the day progresses, audio continues to be a critical part of a daily routine for both parents and students. When working from home, parents often juggle work and household chores, finding solace, education, and motivation in their favorite music or talk shows. About 71% of parents listen to audio while cleaning or doing chores, making it an integral part of their productivity toolkit. And adults aren’t just tuning in to pass the time, 53% of parents listen to podcasts to educate themselves while 73% say that audio has shaped their identity.

Especially in today’s social media craze, most students probably don’t leave the house without a set of headphones on hand. For students, audio is a key component of their study sessions. Whether it’s classical music for intense study periods or instrumental LoFi tracks for a more relaxed study environment, audio has been proven to enhance one’s ability to concentrate and retain information. With 79% of students indicating that music helps them focus, it’s evident that the right audio content can turn any study session into a productive (and more harmonious) one.

Powering Through the Afternoon

The day is at its halfway point. For parents, the afternoons are typically filled with school pickups, errands, and extracurricular activities—and the dreaded afternoon slump. During these busy hours, audio provides a consistent and comforting presence. Parents often rely on music and podcasts to keep them company and serve as a caffeine-free pick-me-up, during commutes and errands.

Afternoons are also a time for connecting, with 70% co-listening with their children for quality bonding time, making the mundane tasks more enjoyable. An overwhelming 97% of Asian American moms and 95% of Latino moms agree that they listen to audio with their family. Depending on their schedules, students may have a hectic afternoon ahead, with back-to-back classes, or it might be their chance to unwind and take a break from their busy schedules. Half of them turn to audio during these moments of relaxation, using music and podcasts to help them decompress and recharge. Pandora’s Chill Out station was made for moments like these, acting as a de-stressor with soothing electronic and ambient tunes. 

Winding Down for the Evening

As the day winds down, audio continues to play a crucial role in both households and dorm rooms. Some parents spend the evenings focused on family time, cooking dinner, or preparing for the next day. Music sets the soundtrack for a relaxed and enjoyable evening, with 59% of parents listening to audio while cooking. Popular stations that were built for family co-listening include Pandora Kids, Fam Jams, Teen Pop, and ¡SÚBELE!

Meanwhile, for students, nights are the prime time for socializing, relaxing, and prepping for a night out with friends. They are 16% more likely to tune into their favorite audio content while getting ready for a night out, using music and podcasts to set the mood and get energized.  

Reaching Parents & Students on SiriusXM Media

As parents and students gear up for the back-to-school season, advertisers should, too. When households say goodbye to the summer and settle back into their routines, audio will be there enhancing moments through headphones, smart speakers, and car stereos—giving you opportunities to to strike a chord. From satellite radio, to our streaming network, to our podcast network, there is content for any audience (and advertiser). 

Ready to kick off the school year on a high note? Let’s chat.