Ready in time to put under the tree this 2006 holiday season, this package teaches children basic greetings and other simple phrases in Spanish.

One of the longest running and best-loved children’s series, Reading Rainbow inspires a child’s love of reading and builds a lasting connection between children and books. The Favorites Collection includes episodes narrated by Jane Pauley, Jason Robards, Gregory Hines and Isabel Sanford. Each DVD will include two 30-minute episodes, plus 30 minutes of related bonus material. There are four DVDs in total, which are organized around themes that celebrate a child’s world, such as “Man’s Best Friend” and “Family Matters.”

One of nine new DVD packages for toddlers, this 15- to 20-minute disc includes fun songs and activities for little ones. The disc features entertaining characters with whom kids can easily relate as well as confidence-building tasks. Other titles in the series include “Hooked On Colors” and “Hooked on Trucks.”

Hooked on Handwriting Learn to Print teaches kids how to print uppercase and lowercase letters. The program’s systematic approach begins by getting kids ready to print by drawing straight and curved lines. It then progresses to teaching kids how to print uppercase and lowercase letters using workbooks and a CD-ROM. Featuring three activity packs, kids get to show off their new skills with fun family-focused activities that include postcards, certificates, and personalized party invitations to share with friends and family. Plus, the program includes a variety of writing tools, write-on/wipe-off place mats, and a pencil case for extra handwriting fun.