that anyone can view
anything on this video-sharing site. Because the videos aren't rated for
age-appropriateness, you never know what you're going to get. That’s part of
the fun of the YouTube -- but it makes it hard to know what ... read more
Holly and Hal Moose: Our Uplifting Christmas Adventure (2009, Rated NR)
Parents Need to Know...
that this sweet, kid-friendly holiday tale focuses on a lovable pair of moose siblings who have their differences but always support and stick up for each other -- so there are good lessons here for kids about getting along with brothers ... read more
that this Toy Story sequel is just as delightful as the first movie. The plot again finds the toys banding together to rescue a fellow toy in peril; the fact that characters are separated from their loved ones could scare or upset the ... read more
that there is separation in the movie -- toys are separated from one another and from their owner (but if your kid made it to preschool without an issue, this should be fine). All of the dynamics behind sibling rivalry are here as well, ... read more
that this adorable, very easy game will likely be deemed to simplistic for anyone over six. Preschoolers and kindergarteners, though, will appreciate how skilled the game will make them feel. It's also important to take note, though, that ... read more
that this three-episode collection of Backyardigans adventures freatures the endearing characters from the Nick Jr preschool series and provides players with an opportunity to use basic early-education concepts in order to advance the ... read more
Ni Hao, Kai-Lan: New Year's Celebration (Nintendo DS, Nintendo DSi)
Parents Need to Know...
that this incredibly well-made preschool game is both entertaining and educational. Players are made to feel as if they are truly taking part in both the preparation for and celebration of a Chinese New Year festival. Children over six ... read more
that this site -- which collects YouTube videos deemed appropriate for kids by the self-moderating site community -- is specifically targeted to kids under 13. It's easy for parents to search, browse, set up playlists for their kids, ... read more
that KidZui is a browser that limits the Internet to about a half a million pre-screened Web sites, photos, and videos that are recommended by its panel for kids ages 3-12. Parents must provide an email address to activate each kid's ... read more
that each character in this animated sketch comedy based on a popular series of kids books is named for the emotion or personality quirk he or she embodies. Some exhibit positive traits (Little Miss Sunshine or Mr. Happy, for example), ... read more
that this lively, colorful series for preschoolers includes strong positive messages about topics like sharing, communication, making good choices, and problem-solving. Preschoolers will have so much fun watching Roary's adventures that ... read more
that this colorful preschool series highlights life lessons young viewers can relate to, like sharing, being a good friend, trying your best, and being polite. In short, there's nothing to worry about. The energetic puppet characters ... read more
that this cute, simple story of friendship and Christmas celebration was previously one of four stories, the one entitled Winter, contained in Tomie de Paola's Four Stories for Four Seasons. read more
The Mitten (20th Anniversary Edition) by Jan Brett
Parents Need to Know...
that this 20th anniversary edition is a beautiful book, and one to be treasured, both for the sweetness of the story and the detailed artwork that illustrates it. read more
Putumayo Presents: A Family Christmas by Various Artists
Parents Need to Know...
that unlike other Putumayo albums, this one is mainly in English, and the songs are spins of traditional, secular Christmas tunes. That being said, there is still a "world flavor" to the music that gives this holiday disc the ... read more
that most of the songs are sweet and sound for little ones, but there are a few minor mentions of death. Of course, many kids won't notice, but it's worth noting if your child is sensitive. read more
that if you're tired of telling your kids to "Wash your hands!" or "Use hand sanitizer!" every two seconds, now there's a fun song to remind them so you don't have to. It even gives steps to staying healthy during the ... read more
