December 2012 Notable Toys — Videos & DVDs

An Elf’s Story™, the animated Christmas special that premiered on CBS last holiday season, is the first Elf on the Shelf® Christmas special that features cutting edge animation, memorable songs, and a tale about the spirit of the season. Nine-year old Taylor McTuttle has reached a crossroads. Does he believe Santa Claus really knows who is naughty or nice? Does he even believe in Santa Claus anymore? An Elf’s Story™ is the inspirational tale of Chippey, the young scout elf who is assigned by Santa to restore Taylor’s belief in Christmas magic. When the boy breaks the number one Elf on the Shelf rule, Chippey loses his Christmas magic; the entire McTuttle family loses its scout elf, and both Taylor and Chippey lose their self-respect. Through the power of love and forgiveness, both of them learn that true belief cannot be taught. An Elf’s Story™ DVD/Blu-Ray combo pack includes: An Elf’s Story™ 23-minute holiday special; TV trailer; Behind-the-scenes look at the making of An Elf’s Story™; Filmmaker’s commentary; Special Code for website access to Santa's Shipping Yard; and both 2-D and 3-D versions of the movie.

The Fascinating World of Birds is part of a video series designed by BrainFood Learning to build confidence in science through fun and interesting content. The video series advances a child's education by showing amazing video footage along with narration describing bird features and abilities. This format is designed to expand a child's vocabulary as the video content grabs the viewer's attention and the vocabulary is absorbed. This animal DVD is appropriate for kids of all ages. Each bird is clearly identified and shown in their natural habitat keeping children engaged. More advanced children will enjoy learning larger concepts such as depth perception. Birds featured in this animal video include ostrich, penguin, Canada Goose, owl, hummingbird, woodpecker, macaw, pelican, American Robin, and eagle. A multi-section review reinforces information presented earlier in the video. The beginner level reviews show bird flash cards and what features are common among all birds. The more advanced levels quiz children on bird facts and broader scientific terms related to birds.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys

Worlds Together is a new excellent educational film series that explores a number of the world’s most out of the way places seen from the viewpoint of a curious traveler. Each documentary in the series introduces their culture, history, food, geography, and people. The series includes East Africa, Ethiopia, and West Africa. Approximately 25 minutes are included per country. Features include close-captioning and a free Teacher’s Guide.
Awards: 2012 Dr. Toy 100 Best Toys

When trouble strikes at the Blue Mountain Quarry, Thomas is sent to help his Narrow Gauge engine friends. While shunting and hauling, he catches a glimpse of a small engine trying to hide, yet no one will provide any clues to the engine's identity. Thomas is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery but discovering the truth is harder than he imagined. Will Thomas be able to save his new friend? Or will the mysterious engine be sent away from Sodor forever? Running time: 61 minutes. Launch date: September 18, 2012.
— As of 09/05/2012 this product had 5 out of 5 stars from 1 review on Amazon.com. Pros: Storyline more realistic that previous Thomas movies; old favorite characters make an appearance.

Scare up some fun this Halloween. Thomas and his friends enjoy some ghostly encounters, Fireman Sam keeps everyone safe from scares and Bob the Builder and the machine team go batty with some new nighttime pals. Get in the Halloween spirit with a few tricks, lots of treats and plenty of fun for all. Launch date: September 11, 2012.