New videos/DVDs
Pamela Brill -- Playthings, 1/1/2004
As the saying goes, good things come in small packages and in this case, the 'packages' are snails. A trio of little escargots play starring roles in Pocket Snails Letter Adventure from Soaring Star Productions. Gordon, Dale and Buttons, who reside in their young friend Jake's pocket, set out to teach him the ABCs. This title offers a nice balance of music and visuals that foster an engaging learning experience for 2- to 5-year-olds.
Healthy eating isn't part of many kids' vocabularies, but thanks to a new DVD from Yum Yum Studios, that phrase can become a lot more palatable. Food Safari: Lunch centers on Chef Beary Good and Sprinkle who, while laying out a picnic lunch, discuss the origin of each food. Little viewers will discover that apple juice starts at the fruit orchard, while bread begins as wheat in a field. And if this knowledge results in better eating habits, then this feast for the senses will truly be bountiful!
1988 marked the release of the theatrical feature The Land Before Time and now, 16 years later, the latest incarnation seeks to capture a new fan base. The Land Before Time: The Great Longneck Migration, a Universal Studios Home Video release, follows the continuing saga of five young dinosaur pals who learn lessons in friendship, loyalty and love. Viewers will enjoy the added bonuses, including a read-along segment and an interactive learning activity.
