Watch Kids' Reviews of
FAMILIES OF COSTA RICA

Kids found it interesting. They enjoyed learning about other countries and, in particular about the lives of two Costa Rican children, Estibaliz and Jose. "The surroundings showed the conditions of the life of the families in the environment in which they live." Its educational nature didn't make it a favorite of all but they did say that they would like watching it in school.

This series offers an inside look at two families, one from a rural area, the other from an urban area. It focuses on the "day in the life of" an elementary-aged child who also narrates the show. Exquisitely photographed, with excellent audio, this is easy to listen to and learn from. It's simple, straightforward, and informative. A little "snippet" whose charm lies in its authenticity. I suppose it's not for all kids, but certain appeals to those who are looking for something a little different than the latest Spiderman sequel. But, it's filled with good facts, such as learning that Costa Rica was the first country in the world to have free public schools and that almost all Costa Ricans can read and write.

Meet Heriberto, a nine-year-old boy living on an Indian reservation in a village inhabited entirely by his extended family. When Heriberto is not attending school or playing football with his cousins, he helps his father tend to the family banana plantation and assists his mother with household chores like cooking and laundry. With no electricity in their three-room home, his family lives by the rhythm of the sun, just as their ancient ancestors did. Watch as Heriberto's family forms a ritual circle at the end of a joyful harvest celebration, and see how close family bonds are celebrated through this age-old cultural tradition.