TDmonthly's ToyFair 2006 Preview--Videos & DVDs Product Category

Get Fit With Sqedunk by SQEDUNK CHILDREN'S PRODUCTIONS

Children can join Sqedunk, Athletic Anna, Miss Lori and their exercise buddies in learning 14 basic exercises. Rhymes, silliness, music and a bit of energy make for a fun time. Children of all ages will love this video that comes with a DVD Bonus Book, “Sqedunk Takes a Tub Tub.” Launch date: July 2006. 1/9/2007 (Price: $13.00)

Adventures With Connor and Jaden: Summer Fun by BOOGIEBUBBLE PRODUCTIONS INC.

The “Adventures With Connor and Jaden” DVD series focuses on how two toddlers and best friends, Connor and Jaden, grow and learn during adventures at the park, the beach and swimming. These two energetic boys are joined during their adventures by other friends, Bella and Julia, who further help demonstrate how toddlers interact in a positive and productive way. The series is narrated by two 6-year-olds who deliver positive messages to children on issues such as sharing, safety and respect for others. 1/9/2007 (Price: $15.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Barbie® Fairytopia™ Magic of the Rainbow™ Rainbow Adventure™ Elina™ Doll and DVD Game by MATTEL INC.

Elina brings girls never-before-experienced technology in a doll by acting as the remote control in an exciting DVD adventure game. Girls can fly her to the right or left and interact with the game, traveling through worlds and trying to capture all of the magical gems in order to create a rainbow and save Fairytopia. Elina has rainbow wings that flutter with the push of a button on her back, and wears a petal skirt with a colorful bodice, just like in the story.
— This “doll delivers an entirely new way for girls to play with fashion dolls — combining the adventure and excitement of DVD game play with fantastical fairy doll play,” Michele Sturdivant of Mattel Brands Public Relations told TDmonthly about the product’s innovation. 1/8/2007 (Price: $24.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Drawing Power! With Michael Moodoo: Pirate Drawing Adventure by MOODOO PRODUCTIONS INC.

In volume 3 of a six-part series, viewers learn how to draw pirates, ships, sea monsters, sharks, treasure chests and more, while following an adventure story. Running time is 80 minutes. The company requires a minimum order of six units for wholesale discount.
— “This educational DVD teaches children how to draw while following the adventures of Naia, a daring pirate princess. … In each story segment, we learn how to draw the objects or characters she discovers. The use of a narrative story to lead viewers into each drawing lesson is a unique and fun innovation,” artist and host Michael Dowell told TDmonthly. Launch date: May 1, 2007. 1/8/2007 (Price: $29.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Lots to Learn: Buster's Favorite Animals by LOTS TO LEARN LLC

This DVD, the third in the Lots to Learn award-winning preschool series, incorporates live action footage, colorful graphics, entertaining interactive segments, challenging games, sound recognition, object matching, memory skills, fun exercises and original sing-along songs. Launch date: November 2006. 1/8/2007 (Price: $14.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Professor Woodpecker® Educational DVD: Health and Nutrition - Volume 1 by H & T IMAGINATIONS UNLIMITED INC.

Children can enter Professor Woodpecker’s world and learn about nutritional foods and snacks as they explore good eating habits and good health habits in a fun and exciting way. The DVD provides an interactive method of teaching fun basics while maintaining a child’s attention by feeding the imagination with live characters and their animated counterparts. Viewers can watch as Professor Woodpecker and friends meet Jerry the Gorilla, Squirmy the Worm and Billy the Goat on three different adventures. This product received a 2007 Seal of Excellence Award from Creative Child Magazine.
— TDmonthly Roundtable reviewer Mildred Tong said her four children (from ages 2 to 9) "loved the song" on this DVD. "Professor Woodpecker was a neat character," she added. "They liked the costume and his accent." 1/5/2007 (Price: $12.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Little Steps by TOPICS ENTERTAINMENT

“Little Steps” is a new children’s learning and discovery DVD series developed specifically for babies and toddlers. It is unique with colorful packaging, the latest in high-quality computer animation and live images, and a competitive SRP. For babies, the “Little Steps” series includes six individual DVD titles including “Counting,” “ABCs” and “Baby Smart Start.” For toddlers, there are four “Wild Animal Baby” DVDs produced by the National Wildlife Federation. The mixture of interactive animal- and nature-themed investigations encourages children to explore nature using their senses. Launch date: November 1, 2006. 1/5/2007 (Price: $9.99)

The Bear Bear and Messer Combo Package by SPAZZMANIA ENTERTAINMENT INC.

This package includes two award-winning educational DVDs, “The Bear Bear and Messer Show: Shapes and Colors” and “The Adventures of Andy Applebutter,” as well as Bear Bear and Messer plush toys in a clear backpack. The DVDs are targeted to ages 2 to 5 and 4 to 7, respectively, and teach color identification, word recognition, social skills and life lessons. Both come with a free downloadable activity book. The product received the 2007 Teachers' Choice Award for the Family.
— President Lin Tam of Spazzmania Entertainment believes her product will do well in specialty stores “because there are not enough educational toys or DVDs that really focus on that market. These … are designed to help bridge a gap of communication between parent and child,” she added. “Both shows have garnered excellent awards and reviews.” Launch date: Fall 2006. 1/3/2007 (Price: $29.98)

athleticBaby Soccer!© by athleticBaby LLC

Little viewers get a kick out of this fun and inspiring sports feature. Young children will gain a new perspective on the energetic game of soccer while enjoying Eddie Coker’s original music that gets them moving to the beat. Parents are encouraged to watch and interact with their children during this DVD. Launch date: November 2006. 12/29/2006 (Price: $16.99)

The Little Prince: The Magic Case by KOCH ENTERTAINMENT

Based on Antoine de Saint-Exupery’s classic character, The Little Prince has three great adventures in one DVD. In “To Be a Man,” he flies to Lapland and helps a young hunter realize that saving is nobler than killing. In “The Magic Case,” The Little Prince he meets a boy in New England who uses his imagination to transform everyday objects into magical toys. And in “Always Listen to a Fox,” the Little Prince journeys to Italy and finds a friendly fox and an unfriendly boy. All episodes can be listened to in either English or Spanish. Total running time is 72 minutes. These cartoons are a Jambre Production Launch date: 1983. 12/27/2006 (Price: $9.98) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Travel With Kids Hawaii: The Big Island by EQUATOR CREATIVE MEDIA

Kids and parents and prepare themselves for a trip to The Big Island with this fun- and fact-filled DVD. 12/27/2006 (Price: $14.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Noisy Nora ... And More Tales about Mischief by SCHOLASTIC

This video in the award-winning Scholastic Video Collection captures the fun of childhood with good-humored animated tales. The title story is adapted from Rosemary Wells’ best-selling ALA Notable Book and School Library Journal’s Best Book of the Year. Mary Beth Hurt narrates the delightful tale of a middle child’s efforts to gain her family’s attention. Four other well-loved stories also feature youngsters who learn that acting out doesn’t always provide the intended outcome. “This video was carefully produced by Weston Woods Studios, which worked with the author/illustrator in the production,” Beth Blenz-Clucas of Foundry Communications told TDmonthly. Launch date: March 27, 2007. 12/22/2006 (Price: $14.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Growing Up with Winnie the Pooh: Love & Friendship by WALT DISNEY HOME ENTERTAINMENT

This friendly video features stories that highlight honesty, respect and friendship, all with the beloved Winnie the Pooh. It won the 2007 Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award. 12/19/2006 (Price: $14.99)

The Greatest Game Ever Played by WALT DISNEY HOME ENTERTAINMENT

Based on an inspirational true story, this video follows the journey of amateur golfer Francis Ouimet, whose dream is to challenge the world’s greatest player, Harry Vardon. With the help of his spunky 10-year-old caddy Eddie, Francis boldly breaks down barriers to challenge the pro for the U.S. Open Championship. The product won the 2007 Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Platinum Award. 12/19/2006

Jim Cosgrove: Mr. Stinky Feet's Road Trip Live by WARNER BROS TOYS

Children can join kid-rocker Jim Cosgrove and his band The Hiccups for a rollicking musical road trip. The DVD features songs such as “Gobble ‘Cross the U.S.A.,” and “Fancy Pants Dance,” along with a “Slug Bug” video. It runs about 33 minutes. 12/7/2006

Santa Claus: The Movie by ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT

Children can now enjoy this classic in a 20th anniversary edition DVD. The story is about a master toy maker who discovers a magical kingdom of elves at the North Pole. There he meets Patch (Dudley Moore), an eager-to-please elf who becomes mixed up with a dastardly toy tycoon’s (John Lithgow) plans to take over Christmas. The 108-minute film is rated PG and comes with extras, including a commemorative booklet, a featurette about the making of the movie, talent bios, and audio commentary. 12/6/2006 (Price: $14.98) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

The Adventures of The Little Prince: The Greatest Gift by KOCH ENTERTAINMENT

Based on Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s classic character, this DVD contains three complete episodes that follow the Little Prince to a tropical island, Holland and Kentucky. The 72-minute film is recommended by The National Education Association, and can be watched in English or Spanish. “The Magic Case” DVD is also available. Launch date: December 5, 2006. 12/5/2006 (Price: $9.98) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

American Manners DVD by TIME FOR MANNERS

American Manners DVD deals with history of the American Flag and respect for it, plus how to behave at patriotic events. The puppets practice the Pledge of Allegiance and also play a musical imagination game, pretending they are at a Fourth of July parade and hearing all the instruments. School bus manners also play an important role.
— “This DVD teaches very young children about love for your country and its flag,” President Holly Beth Moncher of Time for Manners told TDmonthly. “We have found no other educational DVD that tries to reach children as young as 2. Its single most unique quality is that it does this by entertaining the young audience.” Launch date: September 2007. 12/4/2006 (Price: $16.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Guess How Much I Love You with Animated Storytime DVD by CANDLEWICK PRESS

This beloved family classic is available for a limited time with an animated storytime DVD. As the story goes, Little Nutbrown Hare wants to show Big Nutbrown Hare how much he loves him, but love as big as his is hard to measure. Launch date: December 12, 2006. 11/20/2006 (Price: $15.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Families of the World - Families of Australia DVD by MASTER COMMUNICATIONS

“Families of Australia” introduces two children from differing locales and follows them in their daily activities from waking to bedtime, all the while showing young viewers the amazing similarities between their own lives and those of children the same age living thousands of miles away:  chores, school, extra-curricular activities and family interactions. The Families of the World series features families in Brazil, Canada, China, Egypt, France, Ghana, India, Israel, Japan, Korea, Mexico (includes Spanish and English soundtrack), Puerto Rico, Russia, Sweden, Thailand, the USA, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam.  This live-action, close-captioned DVD runs approximately 30 minutes. It’s also available on VHS for $19.95. Launch date: March 6, 2007.  Order Date: February 6, 2007.
— Though there are numerous videos for preschoolers, Master Communications president Selina Yoon told TDmonthly she doesn’t see many films for elementary school-aged children. The PBS broadcast series “really appeals to parents who wish to raise their children to be citizens of the world.” 11/17/2006 (Price: $29.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Going to School in India DVD by MASTER COMMUNICATIONS

Meet 12-year-old Zahida as she paddles her boat to attend school in Kashmir in the middle of a lake (“Going to School in the Lake”) and learns about the vegetation and plants of the floating garden that surround her; 12-year-old Ramesh takes us to his desert classroom made of mud, where there is no water and the wind rips through paper flags above his head (“Going to School in a Mud Desert”); and nine-year-old Skarma climbs uphill through biting cold to attend school  on top of a mountain (“Going to School on a Mountaintop”). More than 50 million children in India currently watch “Going to School in India” over POGO, Cartoon Network and National Geographic television networks. Master Communications, best known for distributing the multi-award-winning “Families of the World” DVD series, plans to soon make the program available to broadcast outlets in North America. This live-action, closed-caption DVD includes approximately 76 minutes of stories of children going to school in India. The retail price includes includes noncommercial public performance rights. Launch Date:  March 6, 2007. Order Date: February 6, 2007. 11/17/2006 (Price: $29.95) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Voy Baby by VOY PICTURES LLC

A fun-filled, bi-cultural adventure into the world of colors awaits in this instructional video from VOY Pictures. Filled with vibrant Latin music, VOY Baby is a must-have for Latino parents who want to give their toddlers a head start in education. Launch date: September 19, 2006.
— “Unlike Spanish-dominant products, VOY Baby takes into account the overwhelming desire of Latino parents to teach their children both English and Spanish. VOY Baby uses lively colors, culturally-relevant iconography and upbeat Latin music to teach the child both languages while remaining true to the Latin traditions and heritage of the parents,” Brian T. Field at VOY Baby told TDmonthly. 11/15/2006

Practice Time DVD Gift Set by TWO LITTLE HANDS

The Practice Time video series focuses on key skills needed to practice in order to perfect American Sign Language (ASL) communication skills. Practice Time’s unique interactive feature enables kids to practice ASL skills with Signing Time star, Rachel Coleman. Practice Time can be used as a companion to the Signing Time videos or on their own. The set includes Practice Time ABCs Level 1 and Practice Time 123s Level 1. “ASL is a beautiful, complex language that is incredibly beneficial for all children, hearing impaired or not,” Karen Gase told TDmonthly. “The Practice Time DVDs take a crucial ASL skill — finger spelling — and makes it easy and fun to practice.” Launch date: Oct 25, 2006. 11/15/2006 (Price: $28.99) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]

Creative Movement for Children - DVD by YOURCREATIVECHILD.COM

This 43-minute DVD may be used to foster creativity, build self-confidence, promote good health and fitness, and help fight childhood obesity. Led by Bonnie Biolini Baxter, the program is designed to positively introduce children to exercise. “Children…are encouraged to directly participate in the exercises,” Edward Boilini of YourCreativeChild.com told TDmonthly. It was named one of the 100 Best Children’s Products of 2006 by Dr. Toy and received Dr. Toy’s Smart Play/Smart Toy Award of Excellence. A second volume for children ages 6 to 10 is currently in production. Launch date: December 2005. 11/14/2006 (Price: $24.95)

Eloise: Little Miss Christmas by ANCHOR BAY ENTERTAINMENT

In this seasonal cartoon, 6-year-old Eloise and her hotel friends plan a holiday show featuring different religious and cultural traditions, and in the end, learn the true spirit of the season is having the people you love all happy and together. The 66-minute feature comes with several bonuses, including a sing-along-song, a DVD ROM: Holiday Card Maker, and a gift-wrapped kids’ DVD game. Launch date: Oct. 10, 2006. 11/14/2006 (Price: $14.98) [Add to my Inquiry Basket][?]