Make Way for Noddy (Sprout)

Adapted from the popular children's book series by Sampson Low and Enid Blyton, MAKE WAY FOR NODDY chronicles the adventures of toy boy Noddy (voiced by David Kaye) in his homeland of Toy Town. Noddy is famous for driving a little red car and helping his friends, who include Big-Ears (Michael Dobson), Mr. Plod (Richard Newman), Tessie Bear (Britt McKillip), Dinah Doll (Tabitha St. Germain), Master Tubby Bear (Carrie Mullan), Martha Monkey (Kathleen Barr), Bumpy Dog, and many more.

Preschoolers can certainly learn a lot from Noddy. He's extremely compassionate when his friends are in need -- even though he sometimes gets more than he bargained for when he helps out. For example, when he volunteers to watch Bumpy Dog so Tessie can go away for the day, Noddy learns that there's a tremendous amount of responsibility involved in taking care of a dog. Both lessons -- that it's good to help, and that pets are a lot of work -- are worthwhile ones, and Noddy offers plenty more along the same lines.

Even though most preschoolers will probably enjoy Make Way for Noddy, some kids with shorter attention spans might find the book format and British vernacular a little slow. On the other hand, the 3D computer animation is visually stimulating enough to keep almost anyone engaged.

TV Rating: TV-Y
Network: Sprout
Cast: Britt McKillip, David Kaye, Kathleen Barr
Genre: Kids' Animation
Where to watch: Sprout