Depending on what you’re trying to do - just listen vs communicate - you might try looking into GMRS radios. They would be best if you wanted to communicate amongst say, a small neighborhood sized group of friends. They’re not as powerful as ham radios, but they cover a greater distance than CB radios. Also, getting a license from the FCC requires no test (just about $70) and that license applies to your entire household. Something worth checking out as they are less complicated than a ham radio setup, and something even your kids could operate. As they aren’t as popular as ham and CB, this wouldn’t be so good for listening however