Music Titles from KIDS FIRST! and the Coalition for Quality Children's Media

The Music category has 87 KIDS FIRST! endorsed titles
Below are records 1 - 50 of them
sorted alphabetically

KIDS FIRST! has linked to external websites through which you may order many of the KIDS FIRST! endorsed titles

DANA'S BEST JUMP & JAM TUNES
LORETTE BAYLE

This title has online video!
Series: AUDIO CD FOR AGES 2-5
Description - Dana Cohenour, a pioneering independent singer, songwriter and educator whose music has earned 17 national awards and acclaim from critics and families alike, leaps back into the scene with a brand-new collection of action songs for kids. Dana's sixth highly interactive album includes 12 mostly original songs designed to get kids ages one to seven up and moving, grooving and laughing. Wordplay, catchy melodies and top-notch musicianship.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Dana is a seasoned, veteran performer and her work shows it. Her vocals are crystal clear and engaging, the production values are terrific featuring some smoking good musicians. The songs are high-energy and demand participation unless you are Velcroed or hot-melt glued to your seat. Great for classrooms, home schools and for kids you just need to tire out with good positive, down-home, funky fun music! Pick up this CD and you might not be able to put it down. Love the energy, the participation and production quality. Songs are terrific for activity and downright fun! The album flows nicely. The artist knows her audience well and her songs follow suit. Listeners will probably seek out more Dana music! It's just that good. Reviewed by John Wood, KIDS FIRST! Music juror.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I enjoyed listening to Dana's Best Jump & Jam Tunes CD! I found myself tapping to the beat of many songs. One of the things I like about this CD is that so many of the songs are nursery rhymes. They have simple melodies, fun rhythms and positive, upbeat messages. Many of them are about animals and the importance of doing the right thing in life. The "I Love Mommy" song is very simple yet it is a reminder of the most important people in our lives - our family.

There are twelve songs on the CD. It's too difficult to pick a favorite, I love "Barnyard Hoedown," "Jumping Beans," "Five Green and Speckled Frogs and "I Love Mommy. The reason why I like "Barnyard Hoedown" so much is because it is a country song with animal voices, a kid's choir and ends with a cow mooing. The "Jumping Beans" is really cool because of its Spanish flavor and the inclusion of a xylophone. I also think "Five Green and Speckled Frogs" is funny because of the frogs croaking in it. Finally, the "I Love Mommy" is particularly touching lullaby with having a heartfelt simple message about loving your family.

Dana Cohenour sings all the songs on the CD is really great. Her voice is very pretty and she can make funny sounds with her voice like singing with different accents. She also does the fun musical arrangements.

The message of this CD is about the importance of respecting animals, doing the right thing and loving your family. What sticks out in mind the most is the kids' choir singing, the animal voices and Dana singing in different styles. I also like all the nursery rhymes.

While I think kids of various ages will enjoy this, I recommend it to ages 3 to 7 because the songs are nursery rhymes with animal sounds. I give this 4 out of 5 musical stars for its positive upbeat songs and inclusion of animal and kid voices.

By Abigail Zoe L., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 9
Runtime: 38 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 1-7
Suggested Retail Price: $ 13
Media: AUDIO

BEST OF RAFFI
ROUNDER RECORDS/CONCORD MUSIC GROUP
Series: AUDIO CD FOR AGES 2-5
Description - A career-spanning collection, celebrating 40 years of hits from the legendary children's troubadour Raffi. The album includes 16 classics including "Down By The Bay" (1976), "Bananaphone" (1994) and, perhaps his most iconic hit, "Baby Beluga" (1980). Beginning with 1976's Singable Songs For The Very Young, pioneering troubadour Raffi Cavoukian (better known simply as "Raffi") is one of the world's best-selling and most influential children's entertainers.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I need not remind you that Raffi came to prominence in the Plasticine Period when most children's music was seeking its way in the woolly wilderness - most things were molded in brightly colored clay and deemed most precious. And then, this clarion voice came shining through the stark wilderness, broke the mold and boldly mixed traditional songs in clever ways and wrote original insightful songs of social relevance with love and gentle understanding of his young adoring audience. Somewhere in a faraway distant galaxy little Xnobian children are pointing their antennas toward the Milky Way and receiving the first faint notes of "Baby Beluga". What a treat. Listen and smile and applaud 40 years of this true artist for the ages! This CD has terrific performances, songwriting and production qualities. Raffi's songs are extremely well crafted and provide a relevant message for kids today just as they did when he started out. They are aimed directly with love at their core audience of children from toddlers to 8-year-olds. They model behaviors of love, acceptance, protection and fun! This artist is totally in touch with his audience and the importance of the world in which they live. With its beautiful arrangements and vocal prowess, it provides an absolute learning adventure odyssey. Let's all get involved in saving the Earth for future kids and protecting the innocent. This is a must get for parents of young ones. Reviewed by John Wood, KIDS FIRST! Music Juror.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - I love to sing dance and just be a child at heart so I love this CD. It is simply wonderful because it has songs for kids of all ages. It has songs that had me wanting to get up, dance, sing and have fun and I found myself doing just that. I love that Raffi sings songs that are fun and memorable and just plain silly!

Included are 16 unique songs kids can dance, sing, learn and just have a good time along with Raffi. This would be great for parties or sleepovers and will pick you up if you are feeling blue. They are very kid-friendly and teach lessons such as everyone grows up, what the sun is and what it does best. On the flip side, there are songs that are funny and silly and will have you up out of your seat and whirling around your house.

The Wheels on the Bus and If You're Happy and You Know It are classics that have a few twists added which make them even cuter. My favorites are Baby Beluga and Love Bug. I love these two because they are very sweet and very clever and had me laughing and dancing. The Baby Beluga is about a baby beluga's day and what it did. Love Bug is about the love bug and how everyone has one and how it shares love and happiness throughout the world.

This CD really made me feel like I was 5 or 6 again and I loved it. It really lets you be carefree and silly and not have to worry about things that older kids have to worry about. For example, things that really bothers me is that I have to do school, worry about money, boys and report cards and what my parents think of me. When I listen to this music I let all that stress go and kicked back to relax and just have fun and go back to that time of my life when I had no worries, bills or strife. I think that it could really help kids deal with all kinds of things and bring them a bit of joy to their day.

I recommend this for kids ages 2 to 12. Kids will love how Raffi sings songs that are fun and educational. They are easy to follow and invite the listeners to sing and dance along. I give this CD 5 out of 5 singing and dancing stars shooting across the sky.

Reviewed by Morgan B., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 12

This CD is a mixture of new and old children's songs. Many of the old songs are favorites and the children got up and danced and sang along to them. Some of the newer or, not so familiar songs, are upbeat and exciting. The first half of the CD are fun, fast paced and kids loved them and danced along. Some of the slower paced ones did not hold my grandchildren's interest as much. An old favorite, "The Wheels on the Bus" was their favorite. Also a new version of De O, Daylight Come and Me Wanna Go Home is delightful. They know the words to this song and clapped their hands and danced along. They also were quite partial to "Down By the Bay," "Apples & Bananas," "Ring, Ring Banana Phone," "Let's Play" and "Shake the Sillies Out." My kids loved the faster paced songs.
Runtime: 45 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 1-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 10
Media: AUDIO

MOEY'S MUSIC PARTY: PRINCESS REVOLUTION
MOEY'S MUSIC PARTY LEMONADE PRODUCTIONS LLC

This title has online video!
Series: AUDIO CD FOR AGES 2-5
Description - Moey's Music Party, the award-winning children's band, encourages tiara-rific girls everywhere to revel in their brainpower, independence, joy and style. Contains 15 rocking original songs that promote confidence and self-expression while tackling subjects like sharing, body image, keeping promises, and standing up to bullies. Princess Revolution! includes modern musical retellings of classic fairy tales such as "Sleeping Beauty," "The Princess and the Pea," and "Snow White."
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Cute rock n' roll take on music for your favorite princess. Princess theme, but music isn't too girly, appealing to a wide range of pre-school aged girls. Little girls love anything princess, so the title and pink cover are great. The content empowers little princesses. Cute. Some piggyback songs that will be familiar to kids, but with new words about princesses. Gets kids up and moving by interacting with songs like "Princess Pokey" and "Five Little Princesses." Along with the familiar melodies are original entertaining songs.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - "These are fun songs." "I like princesses a lot." "I know some of the songs, but not like on the CD." "I like to dance to the songs and I took my princess dolls and let them jump on the bed too!" "I'd like to listen to the Jumping On The Bed song right now."
Runtime: 39 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 1-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 13.98
Media: AUDIO

CAN YOU CANOE?
THE OKEE DOKEE BROTHERS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT DVD AND AUDIO CD SET, AGES 5-8
Description - This CD and DVD set features The Okee Dokee Brothers' Mississippi River canoe journey from St. Paul to St. Louis. After 30 days of camping, canoeing and writing bluegrassy songs, the duo wrote the songs featured on the CD in the set. The Okee Dokee Brothers have won national acclaim.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This is a fun and inspiring trip in a canoe down the Mississippi River. We not only learn about the Okee Dokee Brothers, but we learn about the great outdoors and the creatures that live on the river. You see the music videos, but also what it's like to come up with music lyrics and write songs. The Okee Dokee Brothers have real charm, even if they are pretty silly at times. Their silliness helps kids over 4- or 5-years old relate to them. It shows them camping, canoeing, filming, singing and even writing songs. Sometimes the Okee Dokee Brothers are like big kids themselves, but this is part of their charm. Slow paced, to match the pace of rolling on the river. They appeal to a wide age range.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - One group of kids ages 6-9 like the audio CD and think younger kids will too. The songs are fun and they sing and dance along. "This is an awesome DVD about being out in the great outdoors!" "It not only shows them performing their music, but it shows the entire adventure on the Mississippi River, and it's totally cool to see them camping and being in a canoe throughout the DVD." All of the children enjoy the adventure and said they would watch it again. It made them want to go outdoors, camping and go in a canoe. "I like watching them perform the songs. It is better than just listening to the CD!" "It was fun to see them act silly." "I like the scenery and adventure." This DVD has kids singing and laughing along.
Runtime: 40 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 4-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 15
Media: DVD

LAUGHING PIZZA - LIVE
LITTLE BEAN FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT
Series: INDEPENDENT DOCUMENTARY, AGES 5-8
Description - This "docu-concert" for families takes viewers behind the scenes and on stage with the family band, Laughing Pizza. Tells the story of Billy, Lisa and Emily through music and interviews. The live performance was filmed at the Scholastic Theater.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - The most appealing thing about this title is its message: What makes a family is love. It's moving, loving and real. Will appeal to whole families, not specific to any age. Shows a positive example of a family who love and respect each other. I especially like the behind the scenes glimpses and the personal story of the Laughing Pizza Family Band. The concert scenes are fun too. I like that you can watch the whole feature documentary, play a concert or just select one song. There is a great deal of social and emotional value in showing the close family bond, love and respect that the family members have for one another. The daughter, Emily, made this film and, as such, is a positive role model for young kids and teens. Emily shows respect for her parents and is very optimistic. Additionally, it is refreshing to see parents with so much respect and admiration for their teen daughter. Though the music is geared toward pre-school and elementary-aged kids (the audience at the concerts is quite young), pre-teen and teenage girls especially can relate to Emily and will want to know more about the documentary portion and what it is like to be a young "rock star."
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Girls were dancing and singing along. They love Emily best, saying "she is talented and amazing." Older boys were less enthusiastic about the music, but many enjoyed the behind the scenes footage and thought younger kids would relate to this. "If it was just a concert, or just a documentary, it wouldn't be as good." "I like the Love Makes a Family song, it's a good message for young kids." "It shows how important it is to get along with your parents and to respect them." All the kids seemed to get the important message about family and liked learning how it would be to be in a touring band.
Runtime: 47 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-15
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.95
Media: DVD

GIGGLEBELLIES MUSICAL ADVENTURES VOLUME 2, THE
3D MAGIC FACTORY

This title has online video!
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5
Description - Thirteen animated music videos that take your little ones on more whimsical adventures in this highly anticipated sequel. Featuring a blend of popular traditional children's songs that have that GiggleBelly twist, and fun original GiggleBellie tunes.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Vivid colors, music and dancing, make this appealing. Characters are bright and bouncy and songs have a good beat that make you want to dance. A new spin on some familiar songs makes kids take the time to listen to the lyrics. A great tool for breaking the ice on a play date. Your child will jump off the couch and start dancing and laughing, and you might just join in.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - "I like the animals and colors." Kids want to watch it over again. They like to sing along and they all danced. "It was awesome." "My friends will like it because it is nice." It is hard to even get the kids to talk about the DVD, they just want to keep on singing.
Runtime: 32 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.98
Media: DVD

CHIP TAYLOR AND THE GRANDKIDS
SMITHSONIAN FOLKWAYS RECORDINGS Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: AUDIO CD FOR AGES 5-8
Description - When renowned musician and songwriter, Chip Taylor, became a grandfather, he directed his creative energy to writing new songs with and for his grandkids. Melds the husky, time-worn vocals and musical instincts of a seasoned performer with the charming artistry of his three young grandchildren. With introduction by Chip's brother, actor Jon Voight, and includes a 36-page booklet of lyrics.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - I remember Chip Taylor's previous songs, so I found this interesting and fun! I would enjoy listening to this with a young child. I am impressed. This is very fun and lively; I really like the love of family message throughout. Stresses following rules while still having fun in one song, taking care of our planet in another. All very positive messages. Songs teach respect, trust, honesty and caring for Earth. Chip Taylor is a very talented songwriter and musician. I remember songs such as "Wild Thing" and didn't know what to expect. This was a fun, lively CD, with catchy melodies and lyrics. I like that the songs focus on values and family and other things that children should learn about. What a pleasure!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - "It was fun! Makes me want to dance!" Children danced to many of the songs. All of the children said they would listen to the CD again. They particularly liked the song about saving the planet, and one girl said the "Magical Horse was the best song!" Kids ages 3-8 in one group all said they liked it and their friends would too. "Teaches things kids should do like brush their teeth and do their homework." Two older kids even discussed what they could do to save the planet. All of the kids either sing or dance along. This was a hit with everyone.
Runtime: 38 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 11.98
Media: AUDIO

This title is available for purchase from SMITHSONIAN FOLKWAYS RECORDINGS

HAPPILY EVER MOEY! A FAIRY TALE LARK IN CENTRAL PARK
MOEY'S MUSIC PARTY LEMONADE PRODUCTIONS LLC
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5
Description - Fifteen classic fairy tales burst to life as rocking songs and candy-colored videos filmed in the enchanted forest of New York City's Central Park. 65 children join Moey, the 'pied piper in pink' to give these beloved tales new modern, kid-power endings.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This title takes commonly known nursery rhymes and transforms them into musical odysseys with characters dressed in fairy tale costumes who are dancing and singing. Children are encouraged to dance and sing along. The colors and music are vibrant and upbeat. Nursery rhymes sung in a different way, slightly more modern with fun beats.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids were disappointed that there was no real story-line and seem to prefer watching the videos singularly instead of as an entire video. They noticed special things, such as colors, mermaids, a wolf. The music is fun on its own and some kids would enjoy being able to listen to it on a car ride. This is also fun for kids who are into acting (theater) and nursery rhymes, but many kids could not relate well and were not engaged.
Runtime: 56 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-6
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.95
Media: DVD

LOTS & LOTS OF JETS AND PLANES VOL 1
MARSHALL PUBLISHING AND PROMOTIONS, INC Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: INDEPENDENT FEATURE, AGES 5-8
Description - This sing-along music video features all kinds of aviation machines, including jet fighters, jumbo jets, float planes, air shows, old planes, ultra-light, NASA Shuttle, tribute to early aviators, USAF museum, aircraft carriers and more. Music by James Coffey.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - High paced airplanes and cool tricks by the pilots are fun to watch. The vantage point of the pilot is a great asset. Amazing shots of airplanes accompanied by background music. The ability to see the complexity of flying and the beauty of the clouds around the planes is a wonderful lesson for any child. I would like words on the screen, or a bonus section on the DVD, so kids could actually learn about the planes themselves: what type of plane and other facts. Visually appealing, entertaining and fun!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - "Cool!" "Awesome." "Fun to watch." Boys were glued to the screen and even singing some of the lyrics that were easy and catchy. Kids like that planes were going fast, twist and go upside down. Kids enjoyed seeing the different locations, like San Francisco. "They look real, I wonder how they filmed them." Kids are very interested in learning more about planes. "The planes did cool tricks and are cool colors." "I want to learn about planes and how they fly." Kids who are less interested in planes are a little bored.
Runtime: 100 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.95
Media: DVD ISBN # 978-1-936134-04-5

This title is available for purchase from MARSHALL PUBLISHING AND PROMOTIONS, INC

LITTLE SONGS (COLORS 1)
STELLA PRODUCTIONS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5
Description - Educational and original music by award-winning artist Vicki McCrone.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - A combination of songs about colors with still photographs that include the colors. The images are beautiful and keep everyone's attention. Because each section showed many colors in it, it was hard to point out to the kids which color the song was about. It was fun, songs were cute and the tempo was consistent, though not exciting. The visuals are entertaining and the DVD is very professionally done.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - "I liked the song RED. I liked the song YELLOW and the school bus was cool." "I thought about colors. I want to learn colors." The kids said they liked the pictures and songs. The film kept some of the kid's attention, they remembered the songs. Others wouldn't sit still, but enjoyed the DVD as background music. The photos really go their attention. They seemed to enjoy it.
Runtime: 15 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 1-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.95
Media: DVD

BUG IN A PUDDLE
ONIRAM MUSIC Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: AUDIO CD, AGES 2-5
Description - High-spirited, creative and poetic original songs for both kids and parents. Characters include a tap-dancing frog, monkeys who can't sleep from the noise of hippos' sneezes, and a bug wondering about the universe.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Gentle pop-rock style that will be enjoyable to many and too slow and sleepy for others. Some jurors found the lyrics to be fun and interesting. Our urban kids didn't relate to them. Adult jurors said they appreciated the production quality. Others found it confusing and too "new age." Adults who were not excited it still felt it would make a great CD for babies and toddlers to help them go to sleep. Each song is a separate entity and can be played by itself.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - With adult engagement, children were able to use their imagination to think about some of the lyrics in the songs. One parent noted that the children "played well together" while it was on. "It made me sleepy." "The lady sounded nice." "The words were happy, but I didn't understand them all." "I wanted to learn about a bug in a puddle!"
Runtime: 32 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 0-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.99
Media: AUDIO

This title is available for purchase from ONIRAM MUSIC

MONKEY MONKEY MUSIC: THE VIDEOS WITH MEREDITH LEVANDE
MONKEY MONKEY MUSIC
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5, ANIMATION & LA
Description - From jumping high to exploring American cities, each of these music videos has an educational message that engages the imagination and encourages creativity.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This title is a collection of fun and engaging music videos that children could view one at a time or all together. The songs are attractive for young children and the lead singer is charismatic. Children feel comfortable with Meredith LeVande, as they join her on different adventures exploring the world around them. Visuals are vivid and maintain a brisk pace that will hold interest while communicating the main theme of each song in an age-appropriate manner. Employs a good dose of humor and silliness. DVD offers captions for older children to read along. Songs approach topics such as "opposites," "China Town" and "saying Good Night." Though the style varies a bit in each song, the musical signature is strong throughout. Lead singer, Meredith LeVande, maintains a visual presence during the live-action segments, and as an animated avatar in the cartoon segments.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - The characters "were just having fun and being silly together." Kids ages 2-6 on our jury were all moving their bodies to the music by the end of the DVD. It held all of their interest and immediately motivated several of them to dance along. Even the oldest children, who seemed resistant to watch a "little kid's show," were engaged and wiggling in their seats. The youngest of the kids all jumped up and danced instantly to the music.
Runtime: 36 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-6
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.99
Media: DVD

DEBBIE AND FRIENDS: MORE STORY SONGS AND SING ALONGS (CD)
DEBBIE AND FRIENDS
Series: AUDIO CD, AGES 5-8
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

GIGGLEBELLIES MUSICAL ADVENTURES, THE
3D MAGIC FACTORY

This title has online video!
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5, ANIMATION
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.

The Gigglebellies Musical Adventure is a collection of wonderful (some original) children's music videos that have fun, friendly ,colorful animal characters which the children really connect to. The music starts off upbeat but then changes to relaxing to entice the children to take a nap. The characters were nice and calming which made the children feel safe and relaxed them. The familiar and original songs with visuals really kept these 5-year-olds engaged and they wanted to see it again and again.
Runtime: 28 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 12.99
Media: DVD

ANIMALS ROCK WITH LUCAS MILLER! VOL. 1 MONARCHS, METAMORPHOSIS AND MORE!
SMART MULTIMEDIA Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT AGES 5-8, ANIM
Description - Lucas Miller the singing zoologist, uses live performance with songs and music, animation and nature photography to teach children about the Migration of Monarch Butterflies from North America to Mexico, Metamorphosis and animal defense mechanisms.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Lucas Miller's presentation is hilariously educational. The live audience onscreen is clearly enchanted and viewers will be as well. As he explains the many animal concepts he speaks, shows and signs his way through wonderful lessons. The use of short videos and other illustrations, funny voices, sing along songs and audience participation make it a delight to watch. You will find yourself learning things without even realizing it.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Loved it. "Totally awesome." "I liked how the turtle talked." "Funny. Funny things. He tells us jokes." "Nice. Fun to watch the butterfly." "Funny sound effects." "I liked the turtle dancing." Favorite part: metamorphosis. "It's really really funny, fast and fun."
Runtime: 43 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 18.95
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from SMART MULTIMEDIA

MUSIC OF THE MOUNTAINS, THE
MARY ANN HALL'S MUSIC FOR CHILDREN
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5
Description - Emily and her friends take you on a live action and animated adventure searching for the music in everything on Earth. Through rhythm and reading, animation and imagination, children will learn without even knowing it!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Nicely created music video with pleasant host/singer - Emily, whose energetic presentation is contagious and fun. The onscreen kids are engaged, authentic and very believable. The music is very upbeat - makes you want to sing and dance along. The animated backgrounds are simple and appropriate. The host's interaction with the onscreen kids seems a bit forced and her interaction is a bit one sided.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Mixed reactions. The girls really were focused on the video the entire time. None wandered around to do other things. The two-year-olds patted their knees with their hands along with the music and shouted "Ball" and "bunny" when they saw those items on screen. They bobbed along with their bodies to the music and pointed out the jackrabbit when they saw it. One said, "I lied the mountains. My favorite thing about the video is the bunny. I like the song at the end. I Liked the instruments with the rocks."
Runtime: 28 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 16.99
Media: DVD ISBN # 9780961673710

ALEX & THE KALEIDOSCOPE BAND LIVE CONCERT

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

ALEX & THE KALEIDOSCOPE BAND LIVE CONCERT
KALEIDOSCOPE SONGS Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: MUSIC VIDEO AGES 2-5
Description - World music infused songs that inspire families to sing, dance and get lost in the magic of the music.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Love it. Very bright and uplifting. Delightful musicians and onscreen kids. Fantastic music. Very enjoyable music, catchy and upbeat. Alex and Natalie work together and keep the children in the audie3nce engaged. Very original song choices. There is lots of audience participation from the preschoolers. The language is very appropriate for them with a few new words tossed in for good measure. One almost feels like you are at the concert.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - There was immediate participation on everyone's part. The children sang and danced along to it. They also said, "I'm Alex" or "I'm Natalie" as they tried to mimic them. The particularly enjoyed the song about dads. "He said my Dad is as big as the sky." "I played guitar like Alex." "I would like to play drums." "I saw two guitars - I like guitars." "I liked slapping knees and making thunder." "I'm gonna teach Colby that." This is exactly the type of video that one enjoys sharing with kids.
Runtime: 38 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 15
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from KALEIDOSCOPE SONGS

LISA & LINDA PRESENT SINGIN' SAFARI
MUSIC SHINE MEDIA LLC
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5
Description - This safari musical will have kids swinging and singing through the trees to the award-winning tunes about iguanas, lions, orangutans and more! Hear amazing instruments like marimbas and didgeridoos on this adventure into the world of music. Special DVD features include a Singin' Safari Drum Circle, "Guess the Instruments" where all 22 instruments from the DVD are heard and named, "Rangy" outtakes, and a special commentary for parents by Lisa and Linda.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Offers an adventure into the world of music with a very engaging duo, trio band and Kim the Guide, along with live action kids, audiences of kids and adults, and animals from the Woodland Park Zoo in Seattle. Everyone contribute to the original songs and introduction of all kinds of musical instruments from around the world. Lots of movement and dancing. The audience is invited to "swing and sing" through the trees to Lisa and Linda's original tunes. Good lessons about musical instruments, some common like the drum, piano and guitar and some unusual ones like the didgeridoo, ocarina, and mrbira (thumb piano) and tunes about lions, orangutans , lions and more. Nicely done with live action, film animation and claymation of animals.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Very enjoyable. Kids kept interested, sang along and danced to the music. They liked all the songs and the images of the animals. "We all liked the instruments they played. The didgeridoo was really neat sounding." "We liked the music and the animals." One boy said, "I think my friends would like the cool instruments they play and that we saw kids playing them!" Overall, "great" was their response.
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.95
Media: DVD

YES TO RUNNING! BILL HARLEY LIVE
ROUND RIVER RECORDS
Series: MUSIC VIDEO, AGES 8-12
Description - This recording captures singer and storyteller Bill Harley doing what he does best: performing live in front of an all ages audience.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Loved this. It offers a wonderful concert of Grammy award-winning artist, Bill Harley. His music and storytelling combine to make this DVD one that parents will enjoy as much as their children. In this DVD, he offers a vibrant and hilarious picture of growing up, school life and family life. The topic, about what growing up is like in real life, is very appealing to children. His take on what happens at different ages is very true and shows that times haven't changed all that much. The Varity of songs and stories is simply wonderful. The songs are easy to pick up and learn or to hum along to. His vocabulary is perfect for the target age. Bill is casually dressed but clean and neat. He plays with an acoustic guitar which is easy on the ears. He uses music to catch people's attention and then goes into acting. For example, he demonstrates how the substitute teacher taught them how to line up. Songs are a good length. Very very enjoyable. Definitely we would recommend this to parents.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids just loved this. It held their attention from the very beginning all the way through to the end. They liked that their parents, and even their grandparents, could enjoy it with them. All the kids showed great self esteem after watching it. If obviously had an effect on them. "It made me feel like singing and dancing!" "It caught my attention right from the beginning." They were very excited about watching the DVD a second time - and one group played it a second time immediately after the first. Some said they would watch it at least 10 more times. "My friends would love it too. It makes you feel good." "He told us a story many times in song or in his actions."
Runtime: 112 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 15
Media: DVD ISBN # 97084050299

GUSTAFER YELLOWGOLD'S HAVE YOU NEVER BEEN YELLOW
APPLE-EYE PRODUCTIONS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 5-8
Description - A series of colorful videos with minimally animated illustrations set to catchy pop tunes, from the singular imagination of illustrator/songwriter Morgan Taylor. Influenced by 70's radio, iconic cartoon & comedy classics.
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.99
Media: DVD

SWING, DANCE AND SING
SWINGSET MAMAS
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5
Description - Fifteen songs by the award-winning Swingset Mamas brought colorfully to life by imaginative sets, costumed characters, whimsical animation and 35 kids. Fun extras include: live clips, "making of" segment, PLUS a five-song CD sampler!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - A great great joy! Delightful, full of whimsy, fun and catchy tunes from reggae to Cajun to blues. Kids will relate to great music, engaging singers and musicians, 35 real life kids interacting and great animation and costumed characters to boot. A lot of fun and learning going on without even knowing it! The Swingset Mamas are extremely talented and bring the message across with great lyrics on everyday life and a great variety of music along with the great involvement of children. One of the most engaging music video pieces I've ever seen! The "Swingset Mamas" say, "There is a song in everything you, from waking up in the morning, taking a shower and eating." Their songs provide great joy and a real family experience. Kids will learn a lot from the fifteen music videos on this DVD including "Buckle Up," (car safety) to "The Colors of the Rainbow," (learning about healthy colorful veggies and fruits), to "Sunscreen Dance" (learning about importance of sunscreen to protect one's skin from the suns UV rays.)
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Excellent, innovative, colorful, engaging! Really captured the kids' attention. All the children enjoyed watching the video from the beginning to the end. One child said, "I like it because I'm happy." It only took a few songs to get them up and moving. During the song about books, one child started singing the alphabet. During the song about getting dressed, an alligator tries to get dressed. The kids thought that was very funny. They all moved along to the music, especially the song, "Buckle Up" which has a rap beat. They could relate to the subject matter of all the songs and really enjoyed moving to the various beats. They also really liked the Swingset Mamas themselves and the kids onscreen. This is a wonderful video with great songs that kids enjoy. Highly recommended.
Runtime: 49 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 12.98
Media: DVD

A BAILAR LET'S DANCE! - SPANISH LEARNING SONGS CANCIONES INFANTILES
WHISTLEFRITZ LLC Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: AUDIO CD, AGES 2-5
Description - Songs that introduce kids to the Spanish words for numbers, letters, colors, body parts, directions and more. Authentic, upbeat, Latin rhythms include salsa, merengue, rumba, ranchera, corrida and rock n roll.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This is a superb CD of children's songs - all in Spanish. The packaging is somewhat misleading because it touts the idea that it is "teaching" Spanish. This isn't really the case since there is no element here to attempts a language learning lesson. On the other hand, the music is pleasant and many of the tunes are ones that kids are familiar with such as Head and Shoulders; Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star and The Alphabet Song. For a Spanish speaking family, this is perfect but, if you're trying to learn Spanish, don't expect this to do that.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids immediately started moving to the beat of the first song and were quite interested in the music for the first four songs. After that, it was difficult to hold their interest as they didn't understand what the songs were about. Even when coached by an adult to listen to the Spanish words of familiar tunes, they lost interest.
Runtime: 38 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.99
Media: AUDIO

This title is available for purchase from WHISTLEFRITZ LLC

MS BLANCA: SPANISH & ENGLISH SING AND LEARN
LITTLE XAVIER COMPANY Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: AUDIO CD, AGES 2-5
Description - Spanish & English for 3-years-old and up. Learn Numbers, Colors, Days, Greetings, Opposites, Animals and much more. Includes sing along, instrumentals and a parent-teacher guide with coloring book. Composed and performed by Ms Blanca. Music by C.Lieck
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This compilation of songs sun in both Spanish and English would work well to teach English speaking kids Spanish or vice versa. The accompanying guide clarifies concepts. Also included is a fold out with the lyrics. It's pretty good, clearly recorded but a bit redundant. I found myself wanting something more. This would be difficult to listen to repeatedly. Some of the songs are sun to familiar tunes such as Jingle Bells, Where is John, and Farmer in the Dell. The length of each song is ideal - not too long or short. There are ten songs in total followed by instrumental versions of each song. The instrumental versions would be great for kids to work with to see how much they remembered.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids enjoyed the music, singing at times, dancing at other times. The song, "Numbers" was a favorite. "I liked all the songs." "Yes, my friends would like this." They liked learning the Spanish words for things they already knew. There wasn't much interest in playing it again though most likely, after a time, they would enjoy repeated listenings.
Runtime: 36 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-7
Suggested Retail Price: $ 12.99
Media: AUDIO ISBN # 978-0-9793633-0-6

This title is available for purchase from LITTLE XAVIER COMPANY

KALEIDOSCOPE SONGS III: ANIMALS WE DREAM
KALEIDOSCOPE SONGS Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: AUDIO CD, AGES 5-8
Description - Hand-clapping, foot-stomping world music infused rhythms alongside beautiful emotional arrangements that provide a precious bonding opportunity for parent and child to dance, sway and get lost in the magic of the music.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very enjoyable. Upbeat, catchy tunes, excellent lyrics with great messages. . Beautifully packaged. Complete lyrics included on fold-out cover. The lyrics explore nature and animals. Energetic, each tune offers something different in terms of rhythm and pace - all very appealing to a youth audience as well as to adults. Very listenable. It doesn't dumb down to the audience. The lyrics alone are lovely poetry.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids liked it. "The music was fun." "We love animals." "My friends would like this music; they'd like to sing along." "The words are clear and easy to hear." "We want to learn all the words so we can sing along." "We need to listen to it a few more times before we can sing along."
Runtime: 50 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 4-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 15
Media: AUDIO

This title is available for purchase from KALEIDOSCOPE SONGS

FRANK LETO'S KIDS WILL BE KIDS: SINGIN' & LEARNIN'
FRANK LETO, MUSICAL VENTURES Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5
Description - Set in a classroom environment, children sing and learn about colors, body parts, facial expressions and more. Songs focus on interactive finger plays and games.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Enjoyable. Frank introduces some great songs and musical activities. We also learn about a few small instruments. His style is very appealing and friendly. This takes place in a classroom and there is no change of scenery or story line. Frank introduces each song, teaches kids about instruments and gives them fun ways to participate in the music. The songs are easy to catch on to and each one has motions to accompany it. Not a fancy presentation but well done. The classroom style is a bit dry. It encourages kids to get involved without loud or gimmicky strategies which is very respectful of young learners. There is definitely a beginning, middle and end for everything. However, after viewing once, the instructional parts aren't particularly appealing for repeated viewing. Love that all the songs are new.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Okay. Some kids watched more than once and their expressions changed - perhaps growing to enjoy a song more or not so well. One 3-year-old was particularly drawn in. Others wandered. One said, "this is a music class." Kids definitely did sing along. Some songs stuck with them. Though, many asked if it was over before it was as this is a long show for their attention spans.
Runtime: 39 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 20
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from FRANK LETO, MUSICAL VENTURES

FRANK LETO'S KIDS WILL BE KIDS: MOVE YOUR DANCING FEET
FRANK LETO, MUSICAL VENTURES Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 5-8
Description - Pilar Leto leads children in Hawaiian hula, Brazilian samba, Jamaican reggae, Trinidadian calypso, Cuban rumba and Puerto Rican salsa dances. Frank Leto describes and plays a variety of multicultural instruments.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Best of the three titles from this series. Great upbeat music and fun information about the instruments. Very colorful and fun though the songs are a bit long. Kids onscreen seem a bit bored at times. It exposes kids to different styles of music and dance than they are familiar with. It encourages participation. Frank tells kids what is expected of them in each dance. He introduces each wrong with an explanation of the instruments used for the type of dance and where the music is from. Flows well. Has a good multicultural cast.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Mixed reviews from Fun to Okay. They enjoyed the set. "The set was cool - it showed a car, trees and stuff." This was fun but not all the kids like to dance. They all enjoyed the songs. They liked learning new songs. "The music was different but I liked it. " "I'd like to play some of the instruments."
Runtime: 33 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-6
Suggested Retail Price: $ 20
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from FRANK LETO, MUSICAL VENTURES

CELABRATION LIVE! A TRIBUTE TO ELLA JENKINS
SMITHSONIAN FOLKWAYS RECORDINGS Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: FEATURE FILM, AGES 5-8
Description - Live concert honoring Ella Jenkins, featuring some of today's finest folk and children's artists performing songs written by Ella. This DVD was made of a live concert featuring: Tom Chapin, Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, Bill Harley, Tom Paxton, Riders in the Sky, Mike Stein, Pete Seeger, Sweet Honey in the Rock, Michele Valerie and a special appearance by Ella Jenkins herself. Hosted by Grammy award winners Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This is a tribute to a woman who broke through barriers and prejudices - the wonderful Ella Jenkins. It offers a collection of great children's songs sung by some of the most talented folksingers of our time. What a grant diversity of cultures - with everything from mariachi to Pete Seeger to Sweet Honey in the Rock. The wide range of musical styles keeps the viewer engaged. Some songs address environmental issues or other pro-social issues. Other, are just plain fun! It is very respectful of parents and others who grew up listening to these great musicians. The pace is a bit slow for younger kids and the visuals are typical of a live concert. Its appeal would be enhanced by co-viewing with an adult - someone to explain to kids who these great musicians are.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Mixed reactions from kids. Some really enjoyed it, others were bored, or uninterested. "The music was okay but it didn't grab me." The younger kids had difficulty with the sign language. They liked the costumes of pirates for one song and sang along with it. Beautifully recorded, the kids appreciated that it was easy to hear the words and some sang along.
Runtime: 60 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 6-12
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.97
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from SMITHSONIAN FOLKWAYS RECORDINGS

IT'S A BIG WORLD
ONE MELODY RECORDS
Series: INDEPENDENT MUSIC CD, AGES 0-2
Description - Luminous harmonies and sophisticated lullabies that children and adults will enjoy.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very soothing. Renee and Jeremy have impressive credentials as singer/songwriters for adults and created this disc while awaiting the birth of their own child. The result is an acoustic folk sound that provides a peaceful atmosphere for any child - or their frazzled parents. The song "Night Mantra" is exceptional - a promise of lifelong long from a parent to a child. "Shoorahlaywho" - the closing track, is also great. This song in an earlier generation might have been on Marlo Thomas' classic, "Free to Be You and Me." There is an interesting cover of Bob Marley's "Three Little Birds" which gives the song a whole different dimension.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids enjoyed this. They typically swayed and moved to the music. "Free" and "Powder Blue Sole" were two favorites. Their parents said they enjoyed the music and would play it again. One parent commented, "I used 'Sleep My Love' as a quiet down song and had very good results."
Runtime: 40 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 0-4
Suggested Retail Price: $ 15
Media: AUDIO ISBN # 635961084624

JUNO BABY: JUNO'S RHYTHM ADVENTURE
JUNO BABY Click to purchase directly from the producer

This title has online video!
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 2-5
Description - Juno and the gang discover rhythm in everyday things. This interactive DVD is designed to teach music appreciation and creativity through puppetry, animation, classical music, original songs and world rhythms.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Cheerful, vibrant music. Portrays a world of possibilities with good humor and imagination. Starting with a quote from Plato - "The whole of man's life stands in need of a right rhythm" -carried through by showing children how we are all different. From running to walking, to dressing funny with pants on top of one's head, a world of discovery awaits the young child to help her find her own rhythms. Available in English, Spanish and French to help your preschooler learn foreign language skills.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Favorite parts: "the bee," "the zipping sounds,." "the silly part where we all laughed." Two-year-olds did a lot of knee slapping and pointing to things on the screen. Our testing showed that it was better suited for kids under 4. The 5's felt they were too old for it - that it was geared more for babies.
Runtime: 35 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 1-4
Suggested Retail Price: $ 20
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from JUNO BABY

ANIMUSIC 1
ANIMUSIC Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 12-18
Description - Instruments spring to life and perform a series of original compositions, produced with incredibly detailed computer animation.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Amazing! Excellent production. Great animation, electronic music and fantastical presentation. Upbeat music that appeals to a broad audience. Different ages will respond to the presentation different but each will enjoy. You can see the incredible amount of work that went into creating this production and the effort shows in the complexity of the final product. People will truly be astounded when they take all that into consideration. Together, it creates an entertaining, intriguing and unique experience.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Loved it! "Awesome" and "wow are the words kids used to describe it. One boy owns his own copy at home and was thrilled to see it again. They like that it was computer generated music and images. They definitely said they would watch it again. They often commented about the real instruments that were most like the ones in the DVD. One six-year-old kept up a running commentary about how each song was created on the computer. There were a lot of open jaws at first, then they just settled back and enjoyed it - tapping their feet and clapping their hands along with the beat. Older children who are making movies themselves appreciated the intense amount of work involved in creating this. Bravo!
Runtime: 35 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 12-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.95
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from ANIMUSIC

BUMBLZ TUNES: THE BEE SIDES (CD)
BUMBLZ MEDIA Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: BUMBLZ TUNES
Description - Continuing in the tradition of "Songs in the Key of Bee", "The Bee Sides" CD is sure to delight children of all ages. The songs are fun, heartfelt, and cover many musical genres with a sophistication rarely heard in children's music titles.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very enjoyable. Great variety of very appealing songs. Good mix of fast and slow paced music. Topics range from bedbugs to monsters to mothers. It stimulates children to think about different ideas from adventure to dreams, fears, and trying new things. Very appropriate language that kids can readily understand. Lyrics are clear and easy to understand.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Everyone enjoyed this. All agreed that their friends would enjoy it as well. One of the older boys said, "I like the guitars and Kenny does too." Another added, "Yeah, we can jam to that." and a younger child nodded in agreement. The kids did move along to the music when the more upbeat songs were playing.
Runtime: 35 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 11.99
Media: AUDIO

This title is available for purchase from BUMBLZ MEDIA

ERIC ODE: WELCOME TO THE WORKSHOP
DEEP ROOTED MUSIC, LLC
Description - The library, zoo, and amusement park are all musical destinations as singer, songwriter and poet, Eric Ode, sets out to repair his A-flat Shnooglehorn.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Lovely mix of humor, topics, blend of cultures, ages and genders. Eric Ode is a very creative entertainer who knows his audience. This is very suitable for preschoolers. Shows familiar places from a new perspective, i.e.. Zoo, library, trash can, shoes. Style is gentle and relaxing. Perfect preschool humor, i.e.. Pink worms, guitar turns into a broom, drumming on a ladder. Topics are relevant to preschoolers. Good diversity shown, i.e.. elderly, facial hair, glasses and weight. Preschoolers need to be challenged with questions that have no right or wrong answer. The constant changing of new ideas is engaging.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids just loved this DVD. They danced and laughed along. "It was happy. It has lots of songs." "It's fun!" "My friends would like it because the songs are fun." "I want to play the guitar too." "I like when the cat fell down." Liked when he didn't see the elephants." "I liked the train." This is the type of program that's made for feeling good, not for big thinking. And feel good, they did.
Runtime: 35 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 15.95
Media: DVD ISBN # 0-9791575-0-1

BRAINCANDY, MY 5 SENSES: A YUMMY MUSIC AND SOUND EXPLORATION
BRAINCANDY Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: INDEPENDENT SHORT, AGES 0-2
Description - Introduces fun instumentations of multiple genres peppered with skits and sound effects.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Great music, varied sounds and rhythms. Every song is different and uses a variety of genres that range from steel band sounds to reggae to classical music. Each sense is featured in a song with characters such as Ivy Eyes, Hairy Hand, and Bruce Brain. The vocabulary is basic and easy for toddlers to replicate.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Waiting for final kids' comments.
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 0-2
Suggested Retail Price: $ 7.99
Media: AUDIO

This title is available for purchase from BRAINCANDY

THINGAMAKID TODDLER TOONS
THINGAMAKID
Series: THINGAMAKID TOONS
Description - Colorful and delightful cartoon characters bring to life this collection of classic kid songs. Dance and sing along to "Wheels on the Bus," "The Eensy Weensy Spider" and more. The DVD comes with karaoke, educational shorts and a 15-song CD.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Uses cute animated characters to reinforce concepts most children ages 2-5 already have been exposed to such as nursery rhymes, colors, shapes, ABCs and counting. The menu options are a plus because they allow you to select exactly which song you want to play. Good length. Holds child's attention without much redirection from an adult. It's great that a CD is included with just the songs. Makes it perfect for the car or listening anywhere.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids liked the songs. Said it was "fun and not too long." "I knew all the songs because my mother sings them to me." "I like to sing and dance and this movie made me do both." A few children wanted to watch it again immediately. Many of them sang along with the familiar songs. They played some of the action songs during Circle Time and the kids definitely enjoyed doing that.
Runtime: 24 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-7
Suggested Retail Price: $ 9.99
Media: DVD

OCEANS OF WONDER
CLEVERSHOW CORPORATION Click to purchase directly from the producer
Description - Marine songs set to spectacular underwater footage. Sing along with song subtitles (On/off option). For entertainment; language development, ESL, deaf. Includes an ocean screen saver.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - This is an undersea music video with great underwater cinematography and lyrics that carry a good message about taking care of the environment. Makes an excellent supplement to a classroom lesson on oceanography or environment. Can be viewed with or without lyrics shown as subtitles. Quiet music appealed to some and not to others who said it put them to sleep.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Most enjoyed it. "I liked this film because of the songs - very calm and relaxing." Kids enjoyed seeing the marine animals. "My friends would like seeing the sharks and dolphins." "I learned that sharks are misunderstood. They don't really enjoy eating humans." "It made me want to learn about manatees. I've never heard of them before."
Runtime: 25 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.99
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from CLEVERSHOW CORPORATION

LITTLE TIKES: IMAGINATION AND PLAY
GENIUS PRODUCTS Click to purchase directly from the producer
Series: LITTLE TIKES
Description - Combines original songs and old favorites with a healthy helping of what children do best - PLAY. Little hands and feet with big imaginations come together for a magnificent day of fun.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Well produced with clear images and audio. The songs are catchy; varying from quite wonderful to forgettable. Kids can relate to most of the activities such as playing with trucks, dancing and bathing. The food could have been more healthy and the constant inclusion of Little Tike products tends to get a wee bit too commercial. Fun and safety are stressed although they missed a beat with some tricycle action without helmets.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids definitely enjoyed this more than the adults. "Yes, we like to finger paint." "Yes, we did watch it again." "This video makes me want to go to the beach. Right now!" "It's a good movie. It has cars and cooking." "I loved the firefighter." "I liked everything in it, especially the water."
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 9.99
Media: DVD

This title is available for purchase from GENIUS PRODUCTS

WAI LANA'S LITTLE YOGIS FUN SONGS CD
WAI LANA PRODUCTIONS
Series: WAI LANA'S LITTLE YOGI'S
Description - Wai Lana's latest fun-filled music fest will have the whole family singing, dancing, humming, and tapping!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Beautiful recording. So enjoyable and fun. The songs are gentle yet lively and full of imagination. The book is a piece of art in and of itself. Wai Lana takes nature from animals to trees and sings about them at a child's level. She uses the music to create an image that backs up the words of the songs and create a safe and comfortable environment. Clear and easy to understand, the songs are paced perfect for the target age group.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - A big hit with the kids, especially the book. One three-year-old wanted to sleep with it. They loved the songs and wanted to play the CD over and over. They recognized some songs from the yoga video they'd already reviewed. "Great. I love these songs." Kids sang along and kept asking for more. Favorite part: the snake, lion and the dream one at the end.
Runtime: 50 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-6
Suggested Retail Price: $ 18.95
Media: AUDIO ISBN # 932493425

KIDDIE VILLAGE: LET'S PLAY MUSIC
KIDDIE VILLAGE
Series: KIDDIE VILLAGE
Description - Introduces babies & toddlers to early musical concepts. Designed to captivate and entertain your child using real musical instruments, colorful puppets and shapes.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Creative introduction to musical instruments and classical music accompanied by colorful puppets and kids dancing on-screen. Enjoyable and engaging. Good structure. Developmentally appropriate. Good modeling behaviors of kids with good cultural diversity.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - One child whose parents are music teachers watched for about five minutes. The others weren't particularly interested. The kids were interested in playing real instruments afterwards and talked about seeing them in the program.
Runtime: 28 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 1-4
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.99
Media: DVD ISBN # 0976266210

ANIMAL GROOVE
BLUE VISION MUSIC
Description - James Coffey's CD has kids hopping like kangaroos, soaring like the eagles, and enjoying diverse musical styles with his creative lyrics that take a journey through an imaginative animal kingdom.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Loved it. Very upbeat. Transitions are excellent, lyrics are informative while entertaininig. Combines silly songs with songs that make you think. Vocuabulary is perfect for young children. Lyrics are funny, catchy, and contagious. Even the "Dust Bunny" song is done in such as way that youngest kids can relate.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - YES! "I just really love it. It has groovy music." Kids were genuinely captivated. They danced, sang along and asked for it again. A favorite was "Jellyfish Jump." They loved the piano playing and the song "I Want to Fly." It made them fly!
Runtime: 40 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.95
Media: AUDIO

COME RIDE ALONG WITH ME
BLUE VISION MUSIC
Description - Award-winning songwriter James Coffey's musical versatility comes through with rock, pop, folk, calypso and country styled songs about trains. Features songs from the delightful, "I Love Toy Trains" video series.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Lively, uplifting, enjoyable. Great mix of styles, catchy lyrics, and toe-tapping beats. Songs blend into one another easily and there is a nice combination of paces so it's not all one tempo. One song talks about how we all live in a neighborhood and should respect others. This could be listened to repeadedly without driving the adults nuts.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Enjoyed it, danced to the songs, and listened intently, asking for some songs to be replayed so they could learn the words. Some discussed neighbors and aliens afterwards. Others loved the dinosaur song and looked up T-rex afterwards. One group talked about the difference between an engineer and a conductor.
Runtime: 33 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 12.95
Media: AUDIO

MY MAMA WAS A TRAIN
BLUE VISION MUSIC
Description - From America's heartland, an acclaimed family recording artist steams ahead with his second collection of railroad songs, My Mama Was A Train. James Coffey includes 15 original and traditional songs, all relating to the magic and wonder of trains.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Well produced. All enjoyed Coffey's beautiful singing. Offers lots of information about trains and familiar tunes such as Little Red Caboose and Down by the Station. One preschool teacher said she would definitely use this in her when they study transportation. A group who had just read Thomas the Train loved that it told them more about trains. Great format, allows kids to sing along, count and pretend to ride on trains. Helps develop children's language skills by talking about something they are interested in.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Enjoyed the music and learning about trains. Lively music got the children moving quickly. Kids related to specific songs such as Build a Bridge, and said they imagined they could build a train bridge. Even older kids enjoyed songs such as Casey Jones. Some groups headed to the library afterwards to find books about trains.
Runtime: 45 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 13.87
Media: AUDIO
This title is available for purchase from Amazon.com

I LOVE TOY TRAINS, THE MUSIC!
BLUE VISION MUSIC
Description - The James Coffey Express Delivers! Based on the soundtrack tunes he created for the popular I Love Trains video series, Coffey includes 32 previously unreleased songs relating to the magic and wonder of locomotives.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Good music, fun to listen to. Combines songs to dance along to, some familiar tunes, and a variety of songs all about trains. These songs make more sense with the visuals of the video accompanying them. The kids always love to break into Old MacDonald though.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Kids sang along with some of the tunes. One child who has a harmonica could relate to the harmonica parts. Some kids enjoyed listening along as they played with their toy trains. One pre-school teacher took her kids to the library to get some books about trains as a follow up activity.
Runtime: 75 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.95
Media: AUDIO
This title is available for purchase from Amazon.com

JUDY PANCOAST: TUNE ROOM, THE
JUDY PANCOAST
Series: JUDY PANCOAST
Description - Enter Judy's Tune Room and be swept up in a musical extravaganza of fourteen original, upbeat tunes with child-friendly lyrics in a variety of musical styles. Includes the award-winning "One Big Eyeball!"
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Snappy and original. Well produced. Varied musical styles. Many pre-adolescent themes such as bathroom humor. Overall, clean kid-humor with double entendres performed in such a way that it's not 'in your face.' Judy's voice is melodious yet fun and light. Her song-writing is right on target for this age.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Loved the range of song styles and kept singing them afterwards. Kids enjoyed the silliness of the songs and the borderline taboos, such as complaining about Dad's "stinky feet." "At first, I thought is was for little kids, but then I read the lyrics and thought they were really funny." "It teaches you to have a good attitude when things are rude and how to deal with things like drugs."
Runtime: 48 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-10
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.99
Media: AUDIO

JUDY PANCOAST: ARE WE THERE YET?
JUDY PANCOAST
Series: JUDY PANCOAST
Description - Diversified musical styles and clever lyrics will make this CD quickly become a family favorite on car trips and at home. Judy Pancoast performs fourteen original songs from "Monkey Girl" to the award-winning "The Potty Dance."
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Entertaining. Wide range of music, moving between slow and soothing, and fast and catchy. Techno pop, ballads, country, piano boogie, even orchestra. High production quality. Peppy and positive. A few songs have lyrics that imply something else such as: monsters from hell(o).
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Almost all of them loved all of the music, listening to it over and over. "There are lots of cool songs, especially Monkey Girl." "It wasn't nice putting a tarantula on his cousin and laughing." "The Potty song wasn't respectful but it was fun." "A little corny."
Runtime: 48 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 3-7
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.99
Media: AUDIO

BZOTS: GOTTA GET A GIG
EAT YOUR LUNCH
Series: BZOTS
Description - With the mean old CEO's secret agents and a looming rainstorm hot on their tails, Bzots race to find a fly crib to call home and a gig to pay for it. Thanks to the friendly citizens of Phantburg, Bzots find out they don't have to go at it alone!
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Very different. Frenetic and colorful. Quick cuts and catchy hip-hop tunes. Vivid, entertaining characters. Some of the topics are not geared toward kids: real estate, a song about security deposit and a credit check, and a weird CEO character. "Not sure kids will understand all the slang terms."
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Only about half the kids could explain what it was about. "The robots needed money?" "You need a job to get money." Most seemed to enjoy it. "Weird." "Funny." "Good, but weird." "I liked the dancing prairie dogs." "Cell phone song was neat." "I'll watch it again." "It was neat." "No violence."
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 9.99
Media: DVD
This title is available for purchase from Amazon.com

BIG JEFF
BIG JEFF MUSIC
Description - Big Jeff is like a favorite uncle who writes fun ditties about everyday kid events. On this CD are 12 imaginative original songs for young children.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Brilliant use of music. Creative songs with different styles. Very smooth sound - nothing jarring or harsh. Topics are kid-relevant. Gentle singing, soft guitar and harmonica. Language will grow with young kids. Great for daycare and home. "Enhances family time by being enjoyable for all."
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Huge hit. Listened to it twice in a row and repeatedly asked for more. Came up with their own hellos for the Hello song and their own chants for the Construction Set song. Particularly enjoyed moving to the Train song, chiming in with the kids on the CD. "It's fun!" "I like the train song!" "He's silly!"
Runtime: 35 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 2-7
Suggested Retail Price: $ 15
Media: AUDIO

CLASSICAL FUN SING-A-LONGS
CLASSICAL FUN MUSIC, INC.
Description - Symphonic CD with child centered lyrics makes twenty five masterpieces come alive. Each track associates great music with a fun activity. Educators and parents alike can use this CD to create fun and memorable experiences for children.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - High quality music and vocals. Great introduction to classical music and a good way to determine which composers your child will respond to most. Sing-along words, while age-appropriate, will either make you laugh or make you think it's irreverent.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Most kids really liked it. Little ones danced, going to the CD player for more whenever the music stopped. Older kids were drawn into the room to listen and stayed. "I love this music and the songs." A few were not into the classical music at all.
Runtime: 55 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 0-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.95
Media: AUDIO ISBN # 0975992724

A TO Z SYMPHONY, THE
CLASSICAL FUN MUSIC, INC.
Description - Twenty six independent, one-minute videos set to the melodies of some of histories greatest composers. Each letter's vignette is preceded by an introduction of the title and composer, so they become memorized naturally by young minds.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Excellent. Can't-miss classical music in a kid-friendly format. Extremely high quality sound. One-minute tracks good for short attention spans. Images are not the usual kiddy alphabet stuff. Intriguing material for those just learning the alphabet.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Loved it. Repeated letters and associated words out loud, labeled foods (Boo! Mushrooms!) giggled (The arrow and the apple are funny!) and asked lots of questions. "How does the yo-yo work?" "What are Stonehenge and the Olympics?" "Is this all true?"
Runtime: 32 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 0-5
Suggested Retail Price: $ 19.95
Media: DVD ISBN # 0975992708

ROUND THE CAMPFIRE
KT MUSIC PRODUCTIONS INC
Description - Compilation of favorite Girl Scout campfire songs.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Superior recording of a lovely voice with a lot of range. Folk songs have lots of heritage, texture and history. Imminently listenable and sing-along-able. Perfect for music programs in Scouts, schools or churches or family singing in the car.
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Loved the cannibal song and wanted to play it over and over, dancing and laughing. Liked songs with kids' voices. "Good variety." Woody Guthrie's "This Land Is Your Land" was a big hit. "It's very patriotic." "I like the African beat of Kumbaya."
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 6-18
Suggested Retail Price: $ 15.99
Media: AUDIO

FEELING GOOD CONCERT, THE
GOOD LIFE SOLUTION, INC., THE
Series: DR. COOL AND PRIDE
Description - An interactive DVD starring Dr. Cool and Pride, featuring ten original songs that blend hip hop, pop and conscious rap to inspire kids to laugh, think, dance and even write a song of their own.
KIDS FIRST!® Adult Jurors say - Wonderful program, well done. Songs and skits are presented in fast-moving, engaging short segments. Encourages creativity. Rap style gains the attention of the kids which holds through the entire program. Songs are respectful and right on target!
KIDS FIRST!® Kid Jurors say - Loved it. This video rocks! Many kids watched it again right away. "We liked the band and the songs. They're fun and respectful of kids and what we do. Kids danced, sang, and listened.
Runtime: 30 minutes
KIDS FIRST! Juror Recommended Age: 5-8
Suggested Retail Price: $ 14.95
Media: DVD
This title is available for purchase from Amazon.com

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Music Titles from KIDS FIRST!

The Music category has 87 KIDS FIRST! endorsed titles Below are records 1 - 50 of them sorted alphabetically

The Music category has 87 KIDS FIRST! endorsed titles
Below are records 1 - 50 of them
sorted alphabetically