Ages 2-5 Approved Movies Category from KIDS FIRST!

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TINKER BELL AND THE GREAT FAIRY RESCUE

This title is in the KIDS FIRST! Film Festival - it may not be a regular, endorsed title

TINKER BELL AND THE GREAT FAIRY RESCUE
WALT DISNEY COMPANY
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-12 ANIM
Topic - Family
Description - During the fairies' summer visit to the flowering meadows of England, two very different worlds unite for the first time. Tinker Bell develops a special bond with a curious little girl in need of a friend. Her new friend Lizzie believes in the power of pixie dust and the magic land of fairies. As her fellow fairies launch a daring rescue, Tinker Bell takes a huge risk, putting her own safety and the future of all fairy kind in jeopardy.
Runtime: 77 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 29.99
Media: DVD

BARBIE: A FASHION FAIRYTALE

BARBIE: A FASHION FAIRYTALE
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOME VIDEO
Series: SERIES, AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Join Barbie in a colorful, modern-day fairytale filled with fashion, friends and fun! Barbie and her dog Sequin jet off to visit her aunt's amazing fashion house in Paris, and much to her surprise, it's about to be shut down forever. After she discovers three enchanting Flairies with sparkle-magic powers, Barbie comes up with a brilliant idea to save the business. She even inspires Alice, a shy fashion designer, and together they create a dazzling runway fashion show. Barbie shows that magic happens when you believe in yourself.
Runtime: 90 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.98
Media: DVD

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VELVETEEN RABBIT, THE (ANCHOR BAY)

VELVETEEN RABBIT, THE (ANCHOR BAY)

This title has online video!
ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - Based on the best-selling classic book, Toby's father has packed away in ice his grief over the death of his wife. When Toby is sent to stay with his very proper and somewhat forbidding grandmother over the Christmas holidays, he does not know what to do with himself. Then he discovers an attic filled with toys from the past and an unopened present from his angel mother. Inside the box is a velveteen rabbit that opens up the world of imagination for Toby. Rabbit along with Swan and Horse fill Toby's world with exciting animated adventures. Their love and insights help Toby melt the heart of his grandmother, who calls his father home. Their world reaches a crisis when Toby contracts Scarlet Fever and his beloved rabbit must be burned. Through this loss Toby and the grownups in his life come to realize the importance of family and the power of love to make us real.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Wonderful film that appeals to the entire family. The relationships, the visuals and the classic, sweet story make this one film that appeals to adults as well as children. The filmmaker took a simple story and expanded it into a full length feature without making the story feel forced. The boy's loneliness that draws him to bond with the rabbit sets the stage for a relationship change between his father, grandmother and himself. The story is simple to follow and unfolds in a natural manner. Some kids might get frightened by the fires and destruction in the imaginary world toward the end. Most will identify with the boy and his relationship with his stuffed rabbit. They will most likely be happy that the boy becomes closer to his grandmother and isn't lonely anymore. Each character is true to his or her status including the strict grandma. When poor behaviors are shown, so is kindness. I.e.. when Toby is locked in his room on his grandma's order, she still tries to find his rabbit. Some kids might have a difficult time separating the imaginary scenes from the real ones at first but will soon understand that the animated scenes signify the imaginary scenes. The characters, especially the goose and the horse, explain difficult concepts in detail. Beautiful animation mixed with live action. The scene in which the boy turns from live to animated is incredible. The quality of the cinematography is very good. Love how it brings classic literature to life.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Loved it. "I loved this story." "It is good because the imaginary world is cool. I like how he played with the bear." "I liked how one minute it is animated and the next, it isn't." "The part where the velveteen rabbit sees the other rabbits is cool. You can't tell what's real and what's not." "I would definitely watch it again. In fact, I would watch it at every chance I could as if it was the only movie I had." "The grandma was kind of mean sometimes but then she was nice. The toys tried to save the boy at the end and they did." "The rabbit almost burned saving the boy." "It made the imaginary world seem more real." "It seems like this took place long long ago. The attic was full of toys. I think it took place in England. It looks like the olden days."
Runtime: 88 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 24.97
Media: DVD
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TOM AND JERRY MEET SHERLOCK HOLMES
WARNER HOME VIDEO
Series: FEATURE, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - Jewel heists around the city of London befuddle Scotland Yard. Only the legendary Sherlock Holmes can find the thief with the help of his assistant Dr. Watson � and of course, Tom and Jerry. But cracking the case will be elementary compared to keeping the peace between the rival cat and mouse duo. TOM AND JERRY and all related characters are trademarks of and � Turner Entertainment Co. � 2010 Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. All rights reserved.
Runtime: 50 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.98
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: BERRYWOOD HERE WE COME

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: BERRYWOOD HERE WE COME
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SERIES, AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - Strawberry and friends head to Berrywood to visit Strawberry's movie star friend, Limelight. When they arrive, they're shocked to see not everything is glitz and glamour. They must come together to help Limelight realize that everyone can shine � because everyone is a star! In part two, Hooray for Berrywood! Strawberry and friends bring their Berrywood experience home and help re-open a local theater. By working all together as a team, they're sure to make a berry-good movie!
Runtime: 64 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 4-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

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STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: GLIMMERBERRY BALL

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: GLIMMERBERRY BALL
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SERIES, AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - Follows Strawberry and friends as they prepare to celebrate the coming of winter with a secret gift exchange and a festive winter ball. But, when someone destroys their decorations and the girls all carve the same design in the Glimmerberry Ball lantern event, they have some mysteries to solve in an endearing fun-filled adventure.
Runtime: 64 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 4-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD
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GOOSEBUMPS: THE BLOB THAT ATE EVERYONE

GOOSEBUMPS: THE BLOB THAT ATE EVERYONE
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SERIES, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - A twelve-year-old boy who aspires to be a famous horror writer, films his scariest story ever. When he starts typing it on an old spooky typewriter, it starts coming true!
Runtime: 66 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.99
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

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GOOSEBUMPS: GO EAT WORMS

GOOSEBUMPS: GO EAT WORMS
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SERIES, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - Todd Bastrow is obsessed with worms and carries them everywhere, playing pranks on people. Suddenly, the worms start having a mind of their own and playing tricks of their own.
Runtime: 66 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD
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82 WESTING STREET
ATTIC ANIMATION
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, MIDDLE SCHOOL, ANIM
Topic - Family
Description - A man finds a note about a free room to stay in. But you have to be careful about this house.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Well done. The skill of the claymation make up for the fact that the film is very very short (2 minutes). While the house at 82 Westing Street consumes those who enter, the "hands" that emerge from the ground aren't terrifying. Well structured, the scenes fit together logically in a well crafted story. Non narrative, good back ground music, quality claymation.
Runtime: 2 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

DEBBIE AND FRIENDS: MORE STORY SONGS AND SING ALONGS (CD)

DEBBIE AND FRIENDS: MORE STORY SONGS AND SING ALONGS (CD)
DEBBIE AND FRIENDS
Series: AUDIO CD, AGES 5-8
Topic - Music
Description - Award-winning Debbie and Friends are back with new story songs, jokes, games and surprises to delight the whole family. Special guest Bob McGrath from Sesame Street.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - A nice mix of interactive and story songs. Some of the stories teach a simple lesson, most create vivid imagery and many are just silly. The music repeats refrains that are easily remembered, together with funny lyrics. Music is not overly simplistic like a lot of kid's music. Children will enjoy good music and singing, as well as exercising through interaction and dance.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - From beginning to end, the children sang and danced around. "I like the tune, the singing, the dancing� I like the whole thing!" Kids could recall the stories told in the songs, "Willie, Rosie, Ronnie and Bob have special things about them that are different and interesting," "The parents don't listen to Willy when he tells why he won't smile." "Good music, I can hear all the instruments, sounds and background voices they use to tell the stories." After listening, some kids visited the website where they were treated to some of the videos of the songs and more fun and games which enhanced the overall experience.
Runtime: 34 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: AUDIO

SNEEZE ME AWAY

SNEEZE ME AWAY
RYAN GROBINS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Music
Description - A boy finds a way to enter into a magical, fantastic world by sneezing with his eyes open. He must then enlist the aid of a strange ally in order to get home again.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Lovely, imaginative short. When the boy sneezes with his eyes open, he is transported to another dimension. He meets a octopus looking character who first helps him escape from a gigantic fuzzy creature then tries to capture him for his own circus, to make money off of him. He escapes by sneezing again with his eyes wide open. There are some parts that would be a bit scary for younger kids but, for the most part, it's kind of like a mini dream, with some nightmarish elements. The boy does learn a lesson in the end about home being where he belongs and he promises to never scare his sister again.
Runtime: 14 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

IT HAPPENS

IT HAPPENS
JAY HEIT
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, ELEMENTARY
Topic - Music
Description - Life can be great, but there are 5 or so days in your life where you think you would rather die and "It Happens," is one of them. A fun and sad comedy about a man who has a horrible day.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This student film reminds me of the book, "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" by Judith Viorst. Kids will think it's silly to watch yucky things happen to the main character. What is fascinating about this is that it is directed and written by a very savvy 10-year-old who recently completed the directors program at NY Film Academy. If it was longer than 3 minutes, it would not be as appealing. The acting is very good, as are the camerawork and the background music. Be sure to catch the interviews with the director and the composer, they are worth the effort. I love this young man.
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

SESAME STREET: ABBY IN WONDERLAND (2010)

SESAME STREET: ABBY IN WONDERLAND (2010)
SESAME WORKSHOP
Series: SHORT, AGES 2-5
Topic - Family
Description - "Alice in Wonderland" takes on a new twist in this Sesame Street version where familiar characters take on characters based on the book with silly names like "Cheshire Cookie Cat" and tea is taken literally as the letter "T".
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The DVD is full of great songs that invite singing along, rich visuals and seamless puppetry. Children are reminded that they have control over their own stories. This video will charm even the most serious adult while offering up lessons for preschoolers that make great use of humor just right for a young audience. Our kids jurors who watched it were quite enchanted. They loved the strange characters, from the counting caterpillar to the hatter who was mad and then sad. They thought it as quite cool that Abby could change size by rhyming. Most important, they liked seeing their Sesame Street friends acting in another kind of story where they were different people. Overall, thumbs up - fun video.
Runtime: 41 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD

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STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: THE BERRYFEST PRINCESS MOVIE

STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE: THE BERRYFEST PRINCESS MOVIE
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Democracy hits Berryland as Strawberry Shortcake and Orange Blossom compete to become the Berryfest Princess. At first the town is divided by the friendly competition. But then, Strawberry and her friends learn that competing for a title doesn't mean that people have to pick favorites.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The election is set so everyone can vote for the contestants based on the different opinions expressed in their speeches. Everyone can remain friends. Then the plot takes a twist. As Strawberry gets ready for the celebratory parade, she learns that being a leader isn't all it's cracked up to be. She and her friends are overwhelmed and starting to treat each other poorly. Not only do we see how the election process works - from campaigning to advertising and speech-making - but we also see how everyone can celebrate each other's best qualities and support each other, even when times are tough. Our youth viewers felt the movie appealed more to girls than boys because "it's got girly stuff in it and all the people are girls except for one guy."
Runtime: 64 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD

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ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE SQUEAKQUEL

ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS: THE SQUEAKQUEL
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX FILM CORPORATION
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-12 ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - AAAAlllllvvvviiiin, Simon and Theodore are back in town, and this time they have some competition. The Chipettes! As the brothers get used to school life and try to get over the betrayal of their former agent, Ian, they discover that Ian is up to his old tricks with the Chipettes. It's up to Alvin, Simon and Theodore to help the girls. That's not easy to do when the girls just think they are just jealous. It also doesn't help that the brothers aren't getting along as well as they usually do. In the end they are reminded that there is nothing as great as true brotherly love.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - With catchy tunes and darling animation, the chipmunks will steal your heart and have you singing along as you are reminded about the power of love. Some viewers might not appreciate the potty humor. But, the storyline was good and holds the interest of both kids and adults. Our younger viewers laughed and commented that it was like their everyday life being on film, and parents were able to see it, too. The music is great. Kids liked hearing the songs they normally listen to re-done with chipmunk voices.
Runtime: 89 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 29.98
Media: DVD

THOMAS & FRIENDS: THE RUNAWAY KITE

THOMAS & FRIENDS: THE RUNAWAY KITE
HIT ENTERTAINMENT - TX
Series: SHORT AGES 2-5, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Through simple stories, kids learn about trains and also learn life lessons such as the idea that sometimes you can benefit from the help of friends.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The great thing about Thomas is that he sometimes makes poor decisions which preschoolers can relate to, such as the time he was so interested in finding the perfect gift that he forgot to invite friends to Hiro's party. He admits when he is wrong and corrects his "silly" behavior. The slow pace of the stories makes viewers feel as if they are seeing a book come to life. Thomas is a pleasure to view. It's fun seeing some live action mixed in with the cartoons like when an engineer introduces the episodes and takes care of Sir Topham Hat's mother's bird. Our preschool viewers love Thomas. They love the trains. They love all the different characters, each with its own personality and job to do. They like seeing how all the trains work together to help solve problems. The music is catchy and many of our kids hummed along.
Runtime: 46 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD

SESAME STREET: LOVE THE EARTH

SESAME STREET: LOVE THE EARTH
WARNER HOME VIDEO
Series: SHORT, AGES 2-5
Topic - Family
Description - Saving the earth never gets old with Elmo and his gang.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Once again Sesame Street does a brilliant job mixing education with loads of fun. We learn why it's important not to litter and why it's best to completely use both sides of a piece of paper before throwing it away. Lots of songs and animated segments are mixed together with live action and puppetry, keeping young viewers glued to the screen. The messages of re-using and recycling are delivered in such a way that a preschooler gets it, yet the jokes appeal to an older crowd, making this DVD perfect for family viewing. Homeschoolers can use this as part of their science curriculum because children learn that they are a key factor in saving the earth. Our youth jurors enjoyed learning about recycling and how to help nature in a fun way. They love earth and like learning ways to help protect it. Their favorite part was when Elmo was leaving with his friends and said, "Bye park, bye trees, bye blue feathered swallowing swallow." They realized that the trees, swallow and park were their friends too.
Runtime: 45 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 12.98
Media: DVD

COLORS ARE FUN

COLORS ARE FUN
LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SHORT AGES 2-5, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - This DVD offers a collection of colorful shows including Barney, Bob the Builder, Thomas the Tank Engine, Fireman Sam, Kipper the Dog, Fifi and the Flowertot.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - These six quality shows offer many scenarios promoting positive social interaction and the importance of color and the knowledge of color for your preschooler. Barney's friendly lesson reminds us that colorful rainbows can come on rainy days; Bob the Builder's project lacks color; Thomas the Tank Engine illustrates the significance of colors in communicating. For example, Fireman Sam uses "especially red" as a warning message. The information included surprised even our jurors and especially our kid jurors who liked it a lot. They loved seeing favorite characters such as Bob and Thomas, all at one time. The kids sang along with the Barney songs. A favorite part was when the dog went and dug the cell phone, and the people couldn't find it.
Runtime: 53 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD

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BARNEY: EGG-CELLENT ADVENTURES

BARNEY: EGG-CELLENT ADVENTURES
LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SHORT AGES 0-2, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - The children in this video take turns using their imaginations in fun and creative ways as they explore different environments, follow clues to identify animals and sing a bunch of songs while doing so. We even find out what happens when some eggs Riff is watching hatch.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - See family members of all ages singing along to classics songs as well as new ones. Animated segments add fun interludes to the lessons about animals and the environment. Our kid jurors really enjoyed the songs and learned about developing friendships. They loved seeing the real kids on screen who they could relate to. One child mentioned how he wished that he could be on the show with Barney who still finds a special way into young people's hearts. Most important, this show gets kids up and moving. It is very interactive and encourages kids to participate.
Runtime: 42 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD

Buy Here (from LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT)

THOMAS COMMA

THOMAS COMMA
IMAGERY FILM, LTD
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 5-12, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Based on the the story 'The Comma That Didn't Belong Anywhere,' by the poet Martha Baird. This is a charming, humorous, sophisticated and wonderful adventure of a lonely comma looking for the right sentence.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - An animated short of a story that originated as a radio play that tackles the issue of how a comma is used. It takes on the question of "how to tell a story," the idea of self-worth, individualism, fitting in, disappointment, perseverance, qualify of life, introspection and asking for help. These are all issues that we, as humans deal with but since the subject of the film is a comma, it takes on a humorous tone. Well written, well narrated, it holds your interest from beginning to end. At 24 minutes, it's perhaps a big long but makes some great talking points and is so well made, you're sure to enjoy it.
Runtime: 24 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

MURPHYS SHORT'S

MURPHYS SHORT'S
YELLOWSHED
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 5-12, ANIM
Topic - Family
Description - A childhood memory of a boy who is very impressed with himself.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Short, silly and to the point. This 2D animated short is simply animated and simply told without words. Be sure to watch the credits when you see the birds using the boy's shorts for their nest. Kids will get a kick at the boy showing off with his huge preparation for his dive, only to lose his shorts in the water. Then, the kicker, when the bird grabs them and flies away. Fun and short at 2 minutes.
Runtime: 3 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

BEANS

BEANS
BAD SPARKLE PRODUCTIONS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - While grocery shopping with her mother, Charlie is given a coin to the candy machine where she gets a handful of jellybeans. She munches happily away until there is only one bean left. Not wanting to eat it, but not wanting to toss it either, Charlie tries to find another use for the lone jellybean. Eventually decides to grow her very own jelly bean tree in her backyard.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Cute, non-narrative short. Beautifully shot, very cute kids, silly story. Amusing to follow the young girl's train of thought. Not at all accurate but a good case of "be careful of what you wish for." Apparently the girl didn't want to eat the last jelly bean because it was black and she didn't like that flavor. The girl finally plants her lone, black jelly bean only to be confronted with a 2 foot jelly bean tree covered with black jelly beans. The background accordion music is delightful and fills the dialogue void exceptionally well.
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

LUNCH

LUNCH
IRINA GOLINA-SAGATELIAN
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 12-18, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Vlad is an angry lonely 40-year-old man. He wants to eat his lunch in quiet but someone drops a small cat near his door and that disturbs Vlad's peace.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Short claymation with a cute ending. Fun to watch, the man and the cat character have o much expression, you forget they're animated. The man tries to eat his lunch in peace and the little kitty won't leave him alone. When he finally resolves the problem, it only compounds itself. Kids will enjoy the silly behavior of the frustrated man and will love watching the kitten in action. They will also appreciate his decision to be kind. Fast moving, doesn't let you dare blink! Cuuuuute.
Runtime: 2 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

GIRAFFE'S CAN'T DANCE (2010)

GIRAFFE'S CAN'T DANCE (2010)
WESTON WOODS/SCHOLASTIC
Series: SHORT AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Gerald the giraffe longs to dance like everyone else, but his legs are too skinny, and he just can't seem to get it right. At the Jungle Dance, all the other animals make fun of him, except for the cricket, who shows him how he can be the best dancer of all.
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 59.95
Media: DVD

WOW! WOW! WUBBZY!: WUBBZY GOES TO SCHOOL

WOW! WOW! WUBBZY!: WUBBZY GOES TO SCHOOL

This title has online video!
ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 2-5, ANIMATED
Topic - Family
Description - Everybody's favorite yellow, bendy-tailed buddy loves to learn, learn, learn! Watch as Wubbzy faces his fear of going to school, Widget trains to be a ballerina and everybody tries to learn tricks from Moo Moo, The Magician. Join the fun as Wubbzy and his friends meet new kids and discover new experiences, with plenty of singing and dancing along the way!
Runtime: 70 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 16.98
Media: DVD

SPRING SCIENCE

SPRING SCIENCE
WESTON WOODS/SCHOLASTIC
Series: SHORT AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Includes three shorts: " In the Small, Small Pond" - Spring is here in this cheerful introduction to the seasons. Frogs leap, tadpoles wriggle, geese waddle and minnows scatter. Young kids won't want to miss a single splash. Narrated by Laura Dern, with music by Jerry Dale McFadden (6 min.); "Waiting for Wings" - Butterflies bloom as delicately as flowers in this visually magnificent story of beginnings, middles and ends: eggs, caterpillars and finally butterflies. Vocals and music by Crystal Taliefero and animation by Cha-Pow! (6 min.); "Goose" - A baby goose, adopted at birth by a family of woodchucks, feels like an outcast in everything she does until she discovers - all by herself - that she can fly. Narrated by Laura Dern, with music by John Jennings (7 min.)
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Beautiful; visually very pleasing. These book-based stories are presented simply and true to the original story. We love the way action words are presented in "In A Small, Small Pond." "Goose" is a good tool for teaching about the Spring season and it would make a good comparison between it and Hans Christian Anderson's "Ugly Duckling." The whole collection instills a love of literature appreciation and increases learning through the activities included.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids loved the stories; found them interesting and fun to watch. They are also easy to understand. "A goose was being raised by woodchucks because her egg had rolled into their place. When she fell off a cliff and could fly, when realized she was a goose!" "The pictures are beautiful." All the children said they would watch this again.
Runtime: 19 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-9
Suggested Retail Price: $ 59.95
Media: DVD

DIARY OF A SPIDER

DIARY OF A SPIDER
WESTON WOODS/SCHOLASTIC
Series: SHORT AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - This is the diary of a spider who is a lot like you! He goes to school, but he also spins sticky webs and takes wind-catching lessons. This portrait, an upside-down web world, will have kids wishing they could be spiders too.
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 59.95
Media: DVD

STORIES ABOUT THE EARTH

STORIES ABOUT THE EARTH
WESTON WOODS/SCHOLASTIC
Series: SHORT AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Family
Description - Includes 2 shorts: "Johnny Appleseed" - John Chapman's (aka Johnny Appleseed) legacy of botanical achievements and the stories he shared with children are presented here at their very best in verse and art. Narrated by Mary McDonnell, with music by Randy Scruggs (11min.); and "Miss Rumphius" - Inspired by a true-life story, Miss Rumphius shows us how we can all make the word a more beautiful place with a simple handful of seeds. Narrated by Clair Danes, with music by John Jennings (17 min.)
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This simple story about two remarkable characters will give children some worthwhile ideals to consider. Gently and clearly conveys stories with accompanying music and art that fit the period and theme of the individual stories. The poem about Johnny Appleseed includes many of the wonderful characteristics of his life that made him an American legend. The second short, "Miss Rumphius" is based on the true life actions of 'The Lupine Lady,' Miss Hilda Hamlin. Its sentiment that "you must do something to make the world more beautiful" is a wonderful and embraceable idea. Both stories tell about a person who has thoughtfully made a contribution of beauty to our country. Both follow a life cycle from childhood to adulthood. The poetry and music of Johnny Appleseed is somewhat folksy with the sounds of apples crunching, wagon wheels rolling, birds flying and the campfire crackling. Violins and piano music transport us to a later time and place, changing in tempo as Miss Rhumbhius lives out her life amid the sounds of a pat's purr, a car engine and children playing. "There is a sparkle on the ocean and the lupines blow in the wind."
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Big hit with the kids. "Thank you for the movie mommy, I liked it a lot." "I liked when Alice sat on her grandfather's lap." "My favorite part was when Alice grew up and was planting the lupines." Kids hummed along to the piano music. They discussed what faraway place they would like to travel to, what they would do to make the world more beautiful and what they would like to plant. They imagined what it would be like to travel, like Johnny Appleseed, alone and in the wilderness. Kids enjoyed following the activities on the on-disc learning guide. "We learned a lot from this."
Runtime: 28 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 59.95
Media: DVD

LEY LEY

LEY LEY
FILMPRODUCTION SHABDIZ
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, COLLEGE
Topic - Family
Description - Once upon a time there never was Samarion, a small girl. Pretty and sweet and playful. When she left home to buy bread one day, she sketched the Ley-Ley game along the way. And found another girl with whom she could play. She bought bread and fruit from the baker story and on her way home an old dervish she saw. She gave plenty of fruit and bread to the man and skipping and dancing homewards she ran.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Sweet short film from Germany. Very little narrative, beautiful images, beautiful children. Both little girls are absolutely charming. Very innocent and spiritual in a kind of way. Sub-titled but so simple it hardly needs the words defined. Subtitles were a bit rough, but the story was lovely.
Runtime: 12 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

LIL' IGUANA BE SMART, STAY SAFE

LIL' IGUANA BE SMART, STAY SAFE
LIL' IGUANA'S CHILDREN'S SAFETY FOUNDATION
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT AGES 5-8
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Come join Lil' Iguana and his friends as they have fun learning important safety lessons. Learn about getting permission before going anywhere, never going anywhere alone, knowing who is a stranger and what to do if a stranger tries to make you go with them. Includes one DVD and three music CDs.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - A good piece to have in your video arsenal of learning about safety. It takes a subject that can be hard to explain to children and turns it into fun. Shows situations, stories, games and songs that get the message across. Different aged kids will pick up on different things, but the pace is slow enough for even the youngest. Use of children and puppets, music and dancing, will help kids relate to the stories.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids enjoyed this. "The songs taught us a lot and were fun to sing." "Teaches us how to be smart about strangers." "I liked when they were on the farm with the chicken." "This movie taught us how to be safe - that's really important!" Kids seemed to enjoy the music and the scenery and understood most of the lessons imparted.
Runtime: 22 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 4-7
Suggested Retail Price: $ 29.95
Media: DVD

SAFARI ANIMAL DISCOVERY

SAFARI ANIMAL DISCOVERY
KIDZ ON SAFARI NEW YORK INC
Series: INDEPENDENT DOCUMENTARY, AGES 5-8
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Two brothers, Mugo and Tugo, go on Safari to discover the magic of Africa, from animals to culture and their roots. They discover more than they expected.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Follows two little brothers on a safari trip, learning about the animals they encounter. There are two short quizzes to help children remember what they learned. The next best thing to going on a real safari. Great for building excitement prior to a visit to the zoo. Educational as well as entertaining. Kids will enjoy the ABC song, sung by African children. Promotes a positive view of Africa and their animals. Enjoyed the use of nicknames for animals to engage the kids - "Here comes Mr. Temper." Pop-ups appear on screen with "fun facts" so kids can put information together with the animal they are viewing on-screen. African music enhanced the theme. Some adults appreciated the border that sometimes appeared on the screen, saying it helps to draw attention of pre-schoolers, other found it detracted from the film. A good media tool to introduce young children to the conservation and appreciation of wildlife. After viewing with children, one juror said, "Yeah, this is definitely a keeper."
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The children love the musical exploration of some of Africa's safari animals. It really makes kids want to know more. Children are engaged and full of questions/comments throughout, "Can I pet a flamingo," "Tortoises are good animals," "My favorite animal is the snake." They like the African children singing the ABC song about the animals, learning that there are at least as many animals as there are letters in the alphabet. Some try to guess which animal will be chosen for each letter in the song. "Beautiful, I like how the giraffe stands when he is drinking water." "The brothers were excited and followed the rules of the safari - be good to each other." "I really liked the question and answer part." "It taught me about animals I didn't know - I never saw a water buffalo before," "It told me some names of animals I didn't know, but didn't show a picture of them, so I want to look them up." "Press the PLAY button again!"
Runtime: 25 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 4-10
Suggested Retail Price: $ 20
Media: DVD

FOR A FISTFUL OF SNOW

FOR A FISTFUL OF SNOW
JULIEN EZRI
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 8-12, ANIMATION
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - A long time ago, terror, loathing and power reigned over the Wild Wild North. The foolishness of the inhabitants led them to battle for anything, even... for a Fistful of Snow
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Oh gosh, this is absolutely riveting. Great claymation ever so clever expressions. Storyline delivered in under 6 minutes is coolly delivered with a humorous ending. Wonderful shirt for interstitial programming.
Runtime: 6 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

NICKEL, THE

NICKEL, THE
SMALLTOWN PICTURES
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT AGES 5-8
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - A paranormal concept of token-object reading is explored visually when an inquisitive child discovers a familiar piece of currency with an unfamiliar face on it.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Have you ever thought about the history of a coin? When you pick up a nickel, dated 1929, do you ever think about it's journey, where it has been, how many people have touched it, how they spent it? Here's a sweet short that explores that very idea. Lovely. Thought provoking. I loved it, especially the grandpa who magically made it appear out of his ear. Nicely produced as well.
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

ALEX AND THE GHOSTS

ALEX AND THE GHOSTS
CITE AMERIQUE
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 8-12, ANIMATED
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - A story of childhood magic and wonderment around a legendary hockey team. Uniting past and present, reaching out to the youthful hearts of sport fans of all ages.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Beautiful animation, compelling storyline. Anyone with an interest in sports would be particularly drawn to this. In the boy's dream, he visits famous Canadian hockey players from the past when his grandfather was an usher at the Old Forum. Charming.
Runtime: 7 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

COOL RULES EPISODE 1: GET YOUR DREAM ON!

COOL RULES EPISODE 1: GET YOUR DREAM ON!
TRICKED OUT TOONS, INC
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT AGES 5-8, ANIMATION
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Life in the fast lane is full of challenges for anyone who enters the raceway of life. When Ami, Brillante and Camarada start a fashion shop to sell their own clothing and jewelry designs the struggles sometimes seem bigger than they are. Berg, Hermano and Little Man also find out there's more to opening their tuner garage than they first thought. Not to be discouraged, the Cool Rules Crew works together to help each other shift into high gear for a trip down victory land.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Fun animated short with something for girls and boys both. Fashion and cars! Good animation, has some scenes that are a little washed out but very nice attempt for an indie filmmaker. Worth considering for a film festival because it's unusual and fun.
Runtime: 29 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 12
Media: DVD

CURIOUS GEORGE 2: FOLLOW THAT MONKEY!

CURIOUS GEORGE 2: FOLLOW THAT MONKEY!
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOME VIDEO
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 2-5
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - The world's most beloved and inquisitive monkey is back in Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey!, the fun-filled sequel to the hit animated movie. Join Curious George and The Man with the Yellow Hat as they set out on a madcap cross-country adventure to reunite Kayla, a homesick elephant, with her family. This unlikely trio faces all types of comic calamities and colorful characters and in the end, learn that with family, friends and determination, you can achieve anything. Featuring the voices of Tim Curry, Matt Lauer, Jamie Kennedy and Jerry Lewis, Curious George 2: Follow That Monkey!, "proves that family, friends - and curiosity - are number one." (Francine Brocaw, Los Angeles Family Magazine)
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - In this sequel, not only his curiosity but his big heart gets George into a little trouble but also a lot of fun as he helps a new friend. Tim Curry, Jamie Kennedy, and Matt Lauer all lend their voices to this fun adventure about caring for others. Like a lot of parents, Ted, the man in the yellow hat, is a little too busy with work and has left George feeling friendless. Luckily the Piccadilly Magic Circus comes to town, providing George with the opportunity to spend more time with Ted and make friends with Kayla the juggling elephant. Upon discovering his new friend misses her elephant brother and sister all the way across the country in California, George and anyone young at heart, understands that the right thing to do is reunite this elephant family. George follows his heart and does what is right by taking off with Kayla and Ted for a cross-country adventure. However, trouble ensues when everyone at home thinks the magic juggling elephant has been kidnapped. This beautifully animated feature is filled with slapstick comedy, hilarious action sequences and a valuable lesson about family. The deeper theme of how family is more important than work is complemented by a younger sense of humor and very silly characters. Witnessing George and his friends help each other, kids and parents are reminded of the true importance of caring for friends and always making time for family.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - A hit. "I think Curious George is kind of a crazy monkey in this movie." They all asked to watch it again. They wanted to learn more about trains. Some walked in and out and played during the DVD, but they all said it was fun and wanted more. They liked that the girl took care of the elephant; and related to the character of the girl "she's a girl, like me!" Kids love Curious George, though younger ones may not understand the story as well, they all enjoy watching the monkey and his antics.
Runtime: 81 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.98
Media: DVD

Buy Here (from UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOME VIDEO)

FINN ON THE FLY (2010)

FINN ON THE FLY (2010)
E1 ENTERTAINMENT
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - The lives of Finn, a life-loving, Frisbee-playing dog, and his shy, 13-year-old owner, Peter are changed forever when a lab experiment goes wrong and Finn is accidentally transformed into a human. Once on two legs, Finn teaches Ben to feel the wind in his fur, catch Frisbees like a dog and, ultimately, to find his own pack. Starring Ana Gasteyer (The Women, Saturday Night Live, What Women Want), Matthew Knight, Ryan Belleville, Brendon Firla and David Milchard. Directed by Mark Jean (Homecoming) Winner of "Best Independent Feature for Ages 8-12, KIDS FIRST! Best 2009."
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Love this indie feature about a dog who accidentally gets turned into a boy. If you can imagine how you would behave under these circumstances, that's exactly how this dude does. Then, he saves the day by helping Ben's team winner the Frisbee match. His reward - to be turned back into a dog. Cute and funny. Well produced
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids really got a kick out of the storyline. It's so improbable, yet makes you laugh at the very idea of it. The boys particularly enjoyed it and talked about what their life would be like if their dog became a human. "Yup, my friends would definitely like this because it's so funny."
Runtime: 101 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 24.98
Media: DVD

Buy Here (from E1 ENTERTAINMENT)

VEGGIE TALES: SILLY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE.

VEGGIE TALES: SILLY LITTLE THING CALLED LOVE.
VIVENDI ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SERIES, AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - This classic collection of Veggie Tales favorites teaches about several different forms of love. "The Story of Fibber-O-Loo" presents the parable of the good Samaritan in a Dr. Seuss-esque format that keeps you laughing as you learn about loving your neighbor.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Old Testament story of Ruth is told in "Duke and the Great Pie War." While the story addresses romantic love, it also highlights love for family. In "Madam Blueberry," we learn that material things don't bring happiness, but loving God does. While the stories are great, the segments in between the stories are just as good. Kids and parents will find themselves singing along to the silly love songs including, "Endangered Love," "His Cheeseburger," "Love My Lips!," and "The Bunny Song." The vegetables also interview young children (vegetables) about the meaning of love. Their actions and answers are just like children you might find in your own life, and will have you laughing as you appreciate their candid definitions of love. "Veggie Tales: Silly Little Thing Called Love" exhibits cinematographic and musical excellence. It promotes a balanced appreciation of self and others as well as service to and compassion for others.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - It was pretty exciting because I liked all the Veggie Tales episodes on the DVD. I liked the obstacle course in the one with the knight. Some of the characters were bad guys so they had to treat the other ones bad. We learned that God loves you. Very much. The silly songs really were silly. My favorite was "I Love my Lips!" because it was funny. My friends would like this because it's fun to watch. I liked how it sounded because there were no crackly noises, and the images were clear.
Runtime: 80 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.97
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

SO YOU WANT TO BE PRESIDENT?... AND MORE STORIES

SO YOU WANT TO BE PRESIDENT?... AND MORE STORIES
NEW VIDEO GROUP, INC.
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - Get an inside look at what it might be like to be the President of the United States. Scholastic Storybook Treasures has a long history of bringing award-winning children's books to DVD. This collection focuses on Washington DC and the Presidency.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - In "So You Want to Be President?" we learn the pros and cons of the job. This title is great for recognizing Presidents as real people. It shows how the United States President comes in all shapes and sizes and how past Presidents' different personalities contributed to the nation's history. The title takes us through a day on Capitol Hill with a senator in Washington DC and also gives us the history of Esther Morris who got women to vote in the 1800s. "So You Want to Be President?" doesn't glorify the Presidency in the least. It does show what an important job it is, but is brutally honest about successes and failures of past United States Presidents. It provides accurate facts and information.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This DVD is about President's and what they do. I thought it was good how it told you about the Presidents. It tells a story from a senator's dog's point of view. I loved that because I love dogs, and it was fun to see Washington from the dog's viewpoint. It looked and sounded good. It showed what the Presidents looked like in cartoon animation like a caricature. I think my friends would like this because they would get better grades in social studies. My favorite part was when the girl wanted to become President, and she changed a few words in the song from "he" to "she."
Runtime: 76 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.95
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

VEGGIE TALES: PISTACHIO

VEGGIE TALES: PISTACHIO
VIVENDI ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SERIES, AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - Veggie Tales is updated! Don't worry, you can still sing along with the popular theme song, but its presentation is a bit different. The kitchen has new decor, and even Qwerty has had an upgrade. When children have questions for the beloved vegetables, they used to write letters. Then they sent text messages. Now Qwerty shows children asking their questions through videos clips.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - In "Pistachio," a young boy has a question about obeying his parents even when he doesn't want to. The veggie characters tell the tale of "Pinocchio" with a classic veggie twist to demonstrate how important it is to be honest and to listen to your parents. It emphasizes that parents are older and have more experience and tell children to do things out of love for them. "Pistachio" has a serious message, but also has a great use of humor, which is appropriate to audiences of all ages. It provides positive role models for interpersonal relationships, addressing issues of respect and honesty.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - We love Veggie Tales, and this is as good as all the others. It is funny how they upgraded Qwerty and said they decorated when all they did was paint the wall and add a throw pillow. It was the "Pinocchio" story. The characters were nice. It taught me about listening to parents. Sometimes I don't want to listen to my parents, but I have to. It's usually a good thing when I do obey. The songs are fun. I liked how they played games, and he didn't know they were cheating. It showed he wasn't really thinking. If he was thinking, he would have figured out they were trying to trick them.
Runtime: 45 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.97
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

FANTASTIC MR. FOX

FANTASTIC MR. FOX
TWENTIETH CENTURY FOX HOME ENTERTAINMENT
Series: FEATURE, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - A fox is in the henhouse, and this time you are rooting for him. This film, based on the child's book by Roald Dahl, is an entertaining stop-motion animation featuring the voices of Meryl Streep, George Clooney, Michael Gambon and Bill Murray.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - When Fox finds out he is going to be a father, he promises his wife that he is going to put his thieving ways behind him. He does not hold true to this promise, and chaos ensues as the farmers he steals from try to get him back, affecting the entire underground animal community. As he struggles to right things, the fox is also working on his relationship with his son while learning who he, himself, truly is. "Fantastic Mr. Fox" keeps the viewing audience riveted and assists children in working through problems and emotional issues. It inspires children to find reasonable, positive solutions to problems and promote the balance appreciation of self and others.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - This movie was surprisingly good. It was enjoyable. You knew what was going to happen, but now how it was going to happen, which kept it interesting. The voices fit the parts well because they made the fox sound human with an animal-side, which is perfect. The animation was snappy, rather than smooth, but it fit the story. It looked almost perfect when the foxes were slinking around. I think my friends would love this because it's different. My favorite part was watching the fox steal the chickens. The conclusion was pretty realistic. They were happy enough.
Runtime: 87 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 29.98
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

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BOB THE BUILDER: HEAVY DUTY DIGGERS

BOB THE BUILDER: HEAVY DUTY DIGGERS
LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Series: SERIES, AGES 2-5
Topic - Family
Description - Learn how to face your fears and embrace your talents in this empowering collection of "Bob the Builder" episodes. Bob and his gang take you step-by-step through the building process, showing that it takes careful planning and lots of teamwork to get the job done.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - In the five animated episodes Scrap learns that observing others can help him work better in the long run; Lofty learns that water won't hurt him; Roley learns that it's better to work as a team and that his ideas aren't necessarily the best ideas; Scoop learns that builders can be artists and being an artist doesn't necessarily mean that you have to paint; and Lofty learns to face his fears with his eyes wide open and discovers that doing so gives him the understanding that there was nothing to be afraid of after all. This title assists children in working through problems or emotional issues and promotes service to and compassion for others.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I liked this movie because it told you not to be afraid because there's no such things as monsters. It looked really good because they didn't mess up the cartoon. They were nice to each other. When one machine wanted to build something, the other machines told him to watch and learn, and they were nice to him. My favorite part was when Lofty thought that the water made it so that you fall apart if it touches you so he was afraid of it. He went into the water by accident and learned that if you go into the water, you don't fall apart. I think my friends would like this because they like big machines.
Runtime: 46 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD
Buy Here (Amazon.com)

Buy Here (from LIONSGATE FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT)

PAWS AND WHISKERS

PAWS AND WHISKERS
KATIE HOFFMAN
Series: STUDENT PRODUCTION, ELEMENTARY, DOCUMENTARY
Topic - Family
Description - Eleven-year-old Katie Hoffman's documentary about an Animal Rescue Fund in Long Island, New York. Highlights the animals and the process of rescue.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Nicely done documentary. Good production values, clear audio and video. Kate Hoffman is quite the budding new online host. Look forward to seeing more from her.
Runtime: 10 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

LITTLE HERMIT, THE

LITTLE HERMIT, THE
LANCE MARTIN
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, 5-12, ANIMATED
Topic - Family
Description - In the middle of nowhere there lies a peaceful little community called Hermitville. The Great Grand Wise Old Hermit warns his fellow hermits to avoid the strange land over the horizon. Hermy, a curious little hermit, sets off on his journey in search of this strange land.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The Little Hermit desperately wants to see what the world outside of Hermitville is like so he embarks on a journey to discover exactly what is outside his "middle of nowhere" town. In the end, Little Hermit learns there is no place like home - a message we all can relate to. The narrator's voice is one of the most pleasant I've heard in some time. This is not full range animation. Instead, brightly colored illustrations are panned giving you a sense of movement. Its strength is in its storyline and its message about not taking what you have for granted. My only issue would be the portrayal of violence in the "big city", implicating the idea that the big city was to be feared. This would be a good talking point - and certainly big cities do have some violence, but so do small towns. We shouldn't encourage bias against big cities.
Runtime: 8 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

MIXED NUTZ
BIG BAD BOO STUDIO
Series: TV SERIES, AGES 5-8
Topic - Family
Description - A groundbreaking series that celebrates cultures of the world with heart and humor. Watch these friends as they learn that not matter where you are from or what food you eat. Everyone can be a hero!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This series focuses on children from different cultures who make up America and the challenges they face growing up surrounded by different beliefs and customs. As they share and explore what makes them unique, they begin to also understand how much they are alike. "Peanuts" like characters and animation are nostalgic for adults, but may be a bit too stiff by today's standards. Adults like the "old school" use of sounds to connote action. Much of the dialogue seemed forced, but with a positive message. Accentuates the value of effort as opposed to perfection. Some adults enjoyed getting to know the characters better with each episode.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The youngest children seemed to enjoy and engage in the series best. Older kids understood the story content better. Kids relate to the young animated characters. "I like how they talk to each other." "It has happy music." "Tubby calls the children names, one girl is snobby to the others, most of them are nice." The children enjoyed most of the episodes. The youngest commented and asked questions throughout and it held their attention. Some kids said they were "bored" while others wished there were more episodes to watch.
Runtime: 62 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

TOOTH FAIRY (FEATURE FILM)
WALDEN MEDIA & 20TH CENTURY FOX
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-12
Topic - Family
Description - Dwayne Johnson is Derek Thompson, a hard-charging minor league hockey player whose nickname is "The Tooth Fairy." When Derek discourages a youngster's hopes, he is sentenced to one week's hard labor as a real tooth fairy, complete with the requisite wings and magic wand.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Hockey player Derek "The Tooth Fairy" Thompson (Dwayne Johnson) is a big, tough guy whose pro career fizzled but who continues to please crowds by being the heavy for his minor team. While he's got an attractive girlfriend (Ashley Judd) with two kids, he has a very bad attitude and tends to rain on everyone's parade, particularly those of children with big dreams. To teach him the error of his ways, he is summoned to Fairy Land (presided over by Queen Fairy Julie Andrews and helped by wizened Billy Crystal) where he sprouts wings and learns he must perform the job of Tooth Fairy for 2 weeks. Crazy antics ensue, with the man suddenly sprouting wings at inopportune times and having a nightmarish time trying to fulfill his sentence. In the meantime, he begins to bond with the girlfriend's son, who is himself suffering a crisis of confidence. Eventually, both man and boy learn to believe in the power of dreams, build confidence through hard work and determination and open their hearts to love of self and others.
This is good, solid mainstream Hollywood family fare. Big name actors (Dwayne Johnson, Julie Andrews, Billy Crystal, Ashley Judd) appeal to parents, fantasy antics appeal to kids and the happy ending means everyone walks away satisfied. Kids will laugh at the physical humor. The audience age for this is probably 6-12, with 12 stretching it a bit. Filled with silly physical humor, hockey action and a well acted portrayal of a guitar-playing pre-teen boy who learns to believe in himself.
The humor certainly works for intended audience. While there is a bit of relatively violent action in the hockey rink, it's no more brutal than a televised NFL football game. The heart of the film is about a man who has lost his confidence and therefore assumes everyone is doomed to fail like he has. His negative attitude and progress toward change are easily comprehendible for a youth audience. It's a message both kids and adults can relate to and does offer some good talking points to open up a discussion with your child.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I watched this with a 6 and a 10-year-old boy. They loved it. In fact, they were so drawn into it that they never even sat back in their seats at the theater, they leaned forward the entire time. Both boys are really into sports so they knew who Dwayne Johnson was and loved the hockey playing scenes in the film. The goofy slap stick humor was right up their alley and they clearly appreciated all of it. They would definitely watch it again, and most likely will when it comes out in DVD. Thumbs up from these guys.
Runtime: 101 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

GIGGLEBELLIES MUSICAL ADVENTURES, THE

GIGGLEBELLIES MUSICAL ADVENTURES, THE
COOKIE DOUGH PRODUCTIONS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5, ANIMATION
Topic - Music
Description - Engaging award-winning animation that combines colorful whimsical worlds, endearing characters and fun upbeat music that even parents can enjoy! A new twist to some of the most beloved traditional children's songs, as well as some original tunes.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Fun-filled silly animation with a mix of familiar songs. Fast paced, colorful, very appealing. Every character shows love, fun and spirit. They really make you want to get up and dance along. The songs are a mix of original tunes and familiar ones. For example, the ABC song is sung but to a different tune.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Children definitely moved along to the music and were engaged. They said familiar words such as "monkey" and "bus." The one year old didn't watch at all. The 2-year-olds were more interested. They enjoyed the music and seeing the characters who they could identify with. They danced and pointed out names of things on screen. Some of the songs dragged a big and they lost interest. Some 4 and 5-year-olds were interested as they could actually sing along. Definitely this appealed more to the 2-5 year-olds rather than the younger ones.
Runtime: 28 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 12.99
Media: DVD

KUNG FU FOR KIDS

KUNG FU FOR KIDS
YMAA PUBLICATION CENTER, INC
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 8-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - An instructional program teaching kids the basics of traditional Kung Fu. Simple follow-along workout featuring cartoon segues with Shing. Training tips for parents, teachers. Features Ben Warner, Nicholas Yang, Cameo by Dr. Yang, Jwing Ming.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very informative. An excellent tool to teach the importance of health and exercise. Most useful broken up into segments for better learning results. Interactive format allows for kids to participate in the movements while watching. Promotes health and wellness. Positive and respectful.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids liked it, "it taught me that Kung Fu can by anything. When you work hard and reach your goals you can tell your friends you have done Kung Fu." Fun and motivating, the kids got up and moved around. "I learned that Kung Fu is about more than fighting. It is about discipline, practice and hard work." "Kung Fu can develop your body and mind." "It was fun and had a lot of activity." "It taught us the basics stances, punches, blocks and kicks. It was easy to follow." "Ben, the instructor, was friendly and playful." "It made me think about humility, respect, trust, courage and loyalty." "It made me think bout fitness." "Kung Fu is a fun work out."
Runtime: 75 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 4-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.95
Media: DVD ISBN # 978154391880

SO YOU WANT TO BE PRESIDENT

SO YOU WANT TO BE PRESIDENT
WESTON WOODS/SCHOLASTIC
Series: SHORT, AGES 5-12
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - In the time-honored tradition of political commentary, the public and private lives of the 42 Presidents of the United States are celebrated with humor and flair.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This covers a wide range of traits, habits and backgrounds of American presidents. It makes historical figures come to life, using animation and humor. It conveys the message that is okay to be different. In fact, all the presidents were unique and many; had things in common with their predecessors. For example, some of them played musical instruments, sports, danced, went to college (nine didn't) and had pets. Thomas Jefferson wore many hats. John Quincy Adams was a swimmer. Teddy Roosevelt had a zoo. They were different sizes and shapes; Taft was the heaviest and had a custom built bath tub. But, each showed courage, spirit and the will to make leading the people and country his first priority. It may even inspire YOU to become president some day. The pastel and watercolor illustrations with black lines are beautiful. Some scenes have textured paper background which was very appealing.
Runtime: 28 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 59.95
Media: DVD

SCRAMBLED STATES OF AMERICA TALENT SHOW

SCRAMBLED STATES OF AMERICA TALENT SHOW
WESTON WOODS/SCHOLASTIC
Series: SHORT, AGES 5-8
Topic - Education/Instructional
Description - Those wacky scrambled states are having a talent show. Revel in the madcap adventures and silly antics of this star-studded cast, while learning interesting facts about the states and geography. Narrated by Jon Carroll, David de Vries, Diana Canova and others with music by Jon Carroll. Animated by Galen Fott. Includes a bonus interview with Laurie Keller and an interactive listing of states' birthdays and abbreviations. Based on the book by Laurie Keller. Optional read along option. Optional English subtitles.
Runtime: 18 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-9
Suggested Retail Price: $ 0
Media: DVD

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Ages 2-5 Titles from KIDS FIRST!

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Ages 2-5 Titles from KIDS FIRST!

The Ages 2-5 category has 1784 KIDS FIRST! endorsed titles

Below are the 50 most recently endorsed (see more by clicking the button at the bottom)

Below are the 50 most recently endorsed
(see more by clicking the button at the bottom)