Couric, who lost her husband in 1998 to colon cancer, knows first hand how difficult it is to talk to children about death and grieving after the loss of a parent. Her children were under 10 when her husband passed away. Now, she has the chance to help other families tackle the difficult task of explaining grief, loss, and death to children when she helps a variety of Sesame Street characters host the PBS special, When Families Grieve.

In the special, Elmo and his cousin, Jessie, must deal with the death of her father, Elmo’s Uncle Jack. The Sesame Street characters provide helpful strategies that allow children to grieve, yet keep their parents in mind, even after they’ve passed away. We’ve posted some clips of the special, so you know what to expect when it airs on PBS.

When Families Grieve is set to air on PBS at 8 PM EST on April 14, 2010. You should check your local listings to verify the time in your area.

To find out more about this special, visit the Sesame Workshop Grief page.

Technorati Tags: Sesame Street, Grief, Elmo, Muppets, Katie Couric, Death of Parent, Loss, Children, Cope, PBS

Here is what the page looks like:

CLICK HERE to download the FULL SCREEN Coloring Sheet. You must be able to open Adobe PDF files to get the Coloring Sheet.

Technorati Tags: Thomas the Train, Thomas and Friends, Holiday Express, Hit Entertainment, Coloring Sheet, Free, Extras, DVD Release, Winter

Release Info:
DVD Release Date: April 21, 2009
Online Availability: Amazon for $9.99

Who didn’t grow up with Sesame Street? When we were little, in the early 80s, Elmo wasn’t a regular on this long running children’s show (though we’re told he made the occasional appearance – we don’t remember this personally). My (Dominick) favorite characters were always Bert and Ernie. The duo have a very special place in my heart, and I would sing “Rubber Duckie” endlessly when I was a toddler. My (Ashtyn) favorite characters were Snuffy and Oscar. I was enthralled by the fact that Snuffy was invisible (for a short time – younger Dominick had no idea of this until I (Ashtyn) told him he was Big Bird’s imaginary friend).

Today, kids have our old favorites and they also have the adorable Elmo and his friend Abby. Elmo’s World is one of the most popular Sesame Street inspired series. What’s not to love about Elmo? He’s absolutely hilarious, fun, and just so darn cute. Abby is slowly becoming a new favorite, too and that’s good because she’s an active part of Elmo’s world. With the release of some of these episodes, which aired on television first, your children can do something we were left out of, as kids. They can rewatch their favorite episodes over and over thanks to these DVDs.

I (Dominick) am also ecstatic that Sesame Street decided to include Bert and Ernie on this DVD. There is an episode of Bert and Ernie’s new show in claymation. Children get to enjoy old and new favorites in this set. Sesame Street educated us, they educated our kids (son and nephew), and the show will continue to educate future generations of children with their engaging and entertaining shows. It doesn’t seem like the show changes (in a bad way) like other child-oriented shows. The formula has worked for Sesame Street since before we were born, so obviously Sesame Street and PBS are doing something right.

We don’t usually watch Sesame Street these days. Our youngest is five, so he’s growing out of the age where Elmo is cool. When he was a toddler, he was a huge fan of the little red fella, and many of our friends who have young children have mentioned their little ones love Elmo, too. Elmo and the Bookaneers – Pirates Who Love To Read! has to be one of the cutest Elmo/Sesame Street DVD’s we’ve seen. It combines a love of reading with typical Sesame Street fun, and for mom and dad, it also happens to feature Tina Fey. What more could you want in a DVD for your toddler?

The Sesame Street: Elmo and the Bookaneers Plot
In the first episode on this DVD, Elmo has a bookshelf, but he doesn’t know about all the books on it or how much fun reading can be. A group of pirates, called the Bookaneers, leave the seas for dry land long enough to enter Elmo’s world. There, they find his bookshelf and get to it. The group, led by Tina Fey, love to read! They love to read so much, they want to take the bookshelf contents as their booty!

Elmo is excited to learn about the Bookaneers. They seem really passionate about reading. Their passion for books inspires Elmo, who wants to read, too. So, Elmo sets out to become a bookaneer, as well. To do so, he must help the pirates find their treasure. Your children are invited to come on the adventure and help out, along the way.

The second episode is for the new claymation series of Bert And Ernie’s Great Adventures. The dynamic duo are searching for treasure and they will do everything they can to find it. Adding on to everything are plenty of songs. Abby sings about Words, Elmo sings about reading. It wouldn’t be a Sesame Street DVD without plenty of singing and dancing to inspire your children to get into the lessons being taught.

Finally, there is an Elmo’s World episode, Books. In this episode, Elmo discusses books. He sings about all of the books that are important to him and mean something to him. Themes of this DVD include treasure, reading, and books.

Replayability: 5 out of 5 stars

Audio/Visual:
As expected, the visual quality for this DVD is standard. The video is presented at a 1.33:1 aspect ratio. This is standard for a television series, especially one for children. The video for Sesame Street: Elmo and the Bookaneers – Pirates Who Love To Read! looks good. Colors are vibrant and not washed out. The images on screen are sharp, defined, and not blurred. I honestly didn’t notice too many errors visually. This is standard, decent, but not stunning. It’s great for its intended audience, which is truly all that matters.

The audio is in English Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo. Again, this is standard, especially for a television show of this sort. The only thing that really matters about this track is the fact that it is clear. Dialogue can be heard easily. It’s crisp and clear. Volume toggling is unnecessary. The music doesn’t override the dialogue and vice versa. The main disappointment is no Closed Captioning or Subtitles, leaving hearing impaired children out while non-impaired kids can enjoy this DVD.

Visual: 3.5 out of 5 stars
Audio: 3 out of 5 stars

Bonus Features:
You might have already guessed this, but the Elmo and the Bookaneers – Pirates Who Love To Read! DVD is devoid of bonuses.

Bonus Features: 0 out of 5 stars

Bottom Line:
Elmo and the Bookaneers – Pirates Who Love To Read! is a must have if you have a small child or children. Sesame Street not only entertains children. The show also educates them. In Elmo and the Bookaneers – Pirates Who Love To Read!, your child will not only have fun, they will learn about the importance of reading. Elmo and the Bookaneers – Pirates Who Love To Read! comes highly recommended for the youngest of audiences out there.

Overall Rating: 2.88 out of 5 stars

Technorati Tags: Sesame Street, DVD Review, PBS, Elmo and the Bookaneers, – Pirates Who Love To Read, Children’s Television, Pirates, Family, Educational

Release Info:
DVD Box Set Release Date: August 26, 2008
Online Availability: Amazon for $14.99

Seriously, who has kids and doesn’t like Bob the Builder? Before Obama stole it, Bob the Builder had the slogan, “Yes, we can!” Bob and his team of trucks really show kids how to build things in an inventive way. I’m not big into construction since I don’t work in the industry. I still managed to learn quite a bit from Bob and his team. The cool thing about this show is that parents and kids can learn building concepts together. Thanks to Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds, now I know the process if I ever happen to build my own house, and/or playground.

This DVD is even cooler because in Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds, the action goes on site. Not only do children learn all about building through Bob, his machines, and watching them work. They get the chance to see actual, live machines and workers as they perform the various tasks that Bob outlines. In Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds, the audience gets to see live machines working on building a house from the ground up. Playgrounds from their inception, are also shown being built. It’s pretty cool that Bob can relate the action of his show to the action that occurs in every day life.

While, yes, some parts of Bob the Builder are cheesy, and yes I am referring to the refresher rap/song that is sung “How do we do it”, after each project is completed, kids will really get into this catchy yet repetitious song. Its a little too Barney for my tastes, but then again I am 27. It’s a minor complaint that only an adult could have. What is Bob the Builder really about anyway? The kids, so my opinion on how “cool” this song is doesn’t really matter.

Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds offers a learning lesson that any parent can appreciate. Bob speaks in simple terms that kids of any age can understand. There are things I just never knew about building a house. For example, did you know that after the wooden structure of the walls of a house are in place, the outside of the walls are cemented? I never knew that, but thanks to Bob and his array of trucks, I know that now.

The Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds Plot
Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds is all about learning how to build houses and playgrounds. Bob teaches with three different methods to reinforce all of the concepts learned in this episode. The On Site series of Bob the Builder DVDs all seem to follow this formula.

First, Bob explains the concept in a step by step process. For example, when he discusses building a house, he explains that first you must dig a hole. Then you must fill it with concrete. This forms a solid foundation to anchor the wooden foundation of the house. From here, wood is cut up and the wooden foundation is built. As walls are formed, concrete is put on and smoothed out to ensure the walls are strong and sturdy. The roof is added in a variety of ways including solar panel roofing options. Then, the house is prettied up. Doors and windows are added. Paint and/or bricks are added to make the outside of the house (and even the chimney) look nice. Then the initial structure of the house is built!

Bob also uses his step by step instructions to explain how playgrounds are built. Something I found interesting is that the actual playground equipment is added first. In most commercial playgrounds, this equipment is cemented down to ensure the equipment doesn’t move or fall apart. From there, the playground has a surface added. Some playgrounds have concrete surfaces, but many use a mulch type of wood that makes falling on it safer for kids. Finally, the playground area is fenced off.

The second way Bob teaches these concepts is by showing his trucks building. For example, we see Tumbler pouring concrete into the hole that was dug to make a foundation for the house that Bob is building. This shows the Can-Do Crew in action. It’s actually quite fascinating to see all the work that goes into building a house.

Finally, Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds shows how the concepts that have been taught apply to real life. Going “On Site”, Bob takes his viewers on a trip to real construction sites. There are trucks that dig foundations, machines that mix concrete that anchors playground equipment and makes home foundations, and even trucks that carry supplies to and from construction sites! There is even construction workers who are putting together a playground and smoothing out the playground (mulch) surface. Finally, kids are actually seen enjoying the playground. For such a short DVD, this show really packs a punch.

One of the most informative Bob the Builder DVDs, Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds is sure to be a fan and parent favorite.

Storyline/Plot: 5 out of 5 stars
Replayability: 5 out of 5 stars
Acting: 5 out of 5 stars
Directing: 5 out of 5 stars

Audio/Visual:
You won’t be surprised to know that everything on the Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds DVD is presented in 1.33:1 full frames. It’s the typical format for kid’s shows. The claymation looks good. Bob is a fun character. The animation is excellent and the DVD’s visual quality just emphasizes that. The crystal clear picture is pretty much free from visual errors. Hit Entertainment did a nice job with this DVD transfer.

The audio quality for Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds is English Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo. Again, this is standard. The sound isn’t overly dynamic, but then again, this is a dialogue driven show. Sure, there are songs mixed in with the dialogue, but kids aren’t going to realize that these songs aren’t really all that dynamic. This fits the audience and the DVD. Additional tracks are available in Spanish and French. Both are Dolby Digital 2.0 stereo. While subtitles aren’t available, Closed Captioning is in all three languages.

Visual: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Audio: 3 out of 5 stars

Bonus Features:
There is only one bonus feature. I thought this was great. I’ve never seen the show Fireman Sam, so having this on the Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds DVD was a great way to introduce the show to an audience that might not know if they’ll like the show, Fireman Sam or not.

The bonus included on the Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds DVD is an episode of Fireman Sam. The episode, “Birthday Surprise” has the whole town preparing for Sam’s birthday. They want to throw him a surprise party, but they have to keep the secret from him until it is time for the party. When an incident with the birthday cake goes awry and the candles that won’t blow out are automatically re-lit, it is up to Sam to fight a fire, and hopefully not discover why the fire was started in the first place!

Bonus Features: 3 out of 5 stars

Bottom Line:
I really like Bob the Builder. Its one of the few shows that I can say I, as a parent, learn as much as my child. Educational for everyone in the family, Bob the Builder: On Site – Houses and Playgrounds, the latest Bob the Builder DVD is a must have for any fan of this show. If your child (or husband) likes construction then this DVD is something you want to buy. Even if your child might not be a huge construction fan, learning about building things is always worthwhile. With the fun, repetitious way that Bob teaches construction lessons, your child will be wanting to play with trucks and make their own “construction sites” just like Bob!

Overall Rating: 4.36 out of 5 stars

Technorati Tags: Bob the Builder, On Site, Houses and Playgrounds, DVD Review, TV show, Kids, animation, PBS, children’s television

Release Info:
Original Air Dates: September 14, 1985-2005 (two series linked together)
Season Air Dates:2003
DVD Box Set Release Date: August 12, 2008
Online Availability: Amazon for $10.99
Episodes: Season 3 episodes of the show plus one episode from Season 4

Growing up as a child of the 80s, the Berenstain Bears were a big part of my life. I read the books. I watched the original television series, which aired from 1985-1986. The Berenstain Bears played an active role in teaching me many of life’s important lessons. While I already knew how to do many things, the books and show helped to reinforce many of these positive lessons like learning to share and appreciating others in your daily life.

While some may think that the Berenstain Bears are too unrealistic, perhaps too perfect a family, with everything always working out as it should, children at an impressionable age who are the primary audiences for the Berenstain Bears shows and books, gain knowledge and respect through reading and watching about the Bears. I’d much rather have my child watching these (yes, they are wholesome) good-natured cartoons then letting him/her watch reality television, cartoons where the kids tell off their parents and treat everyone around them poorly or some other mindless drivel that currently airs on television.

Sure, some may say that the Berenstain Bears are dated, but they don’t have to be. Jealousy, sibling rivalry, spousal expectations and competitiveness are universal to all generations. Sure, the kids might not be as hip or as technologically friendly as today’s kids, but the shows are still fun to watch and the lessons learned are well worth taking the time to unwind and allow for much simpler life lessons to be taught in a refreshing and entertaining way.

I liked the Berenstain Bears when the original series aired and I like the new series, which aired (and still airs on syndication) on PBS. The animation is simple yet fun, the characters are easy to follow and understand and the storylines could fit in any child and/or family’s life no matter their living situation or environment. Overall, this is one of the best series for young children to learn from, which is why the Berenstain Bears DVDs come highly recommended.

The Berenstain Bears: Family and Friendship Plot
There are six episodes included on the Berenstain Bears: Family and Friendship DVD. These episodes originally aired with other episodes (as mini-sodes with two mini-sodes per episode). Only half of one actual episode is presented on this DVD. So, if you want to look at it that way, you actually get enough content to fill up three Berenstain Bears, half-hour episodes.

The episodes with a brief description of each are as follows:

“The Green-Eyed Monster” – Brother Bear is too big for his bike. Sister Bear is very excited when she gets Brother’s old bike. Well, that is until she sees the new bike brother receives. In the meantime, Mama tries to teach sister about the Green-Eyed Monster (jealousy) and why it is important to control jealous tendencies.

“Think of Those in Need” – Mama wants the cubs to clean up their room. To do so, Brother and Sister decide to get rid of their old puzzles, board games, and books. When the two plan to take these items to a home for the elderly they learn the importance of sharing with others and bond with the older people, who are generations apart from them.

“The New Neighbors” – When the Bear family lose their dependable, friendly neighbors, they are shocked to learn that hip, new neighbors from the city are moving in next door to them. While Papa can’t get past all their high tech gadgets, Mama must get to know the new Mama, who rides a motorcycle. In the meantime, the cubs learn about new sports games from their new neighbors.

“The Bad Dream” – Brother decides to pick a somewhat scary TV series to watch during the family’s evening together. Though sister tries to be brave she ends up having a nightmare about the show’s evil villain. When the next evening rolls around for the show to air, Sister must confront her fears and dream.

“The Prize Pumpkin” – Papa is growing a gigantic pumpkin. He wants to win the annual pumpkin contest, which is held on Thanksgiving. However, Papa starts to suspect their neighbor and his best friend, Farmer Ben, has it out for him. He starts guarding the pumpkin day and night and avoids spending time with Ben.

“Big Bear, Small Bear” – It is pretty clear to the Bears that Brother is growing up. Of course, this thought hasn’t yet hit Brother Bear. He’ll explore the thought of his youth and his impending adulthood when he’s finally trusted with his very own key to the clubhouse.

While you’d expect a show that airs on PBS to have a good, moral message, this show is actually one of the best family shows that the channel airs. While the lessons might seem simple and the love this family feels for one another is sweet and syrupy, the overall message outweighs everything that could potentially be negative in relation to these episodes.

Storyline/Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Replayability: 4 out of 5 stars
Acting: 5 out of 5 stars
Directing: 4 out of 5 stars

Audio/Visual:
The animation for the episodes presented on the Berenstain Bears: Family and Friendship DVD is simple, clean and colorful. The range of colors is vibrant and the contrast is nice. There are very minor visual flaws, none of which will distract children (or parents) from enjoying these episodes. Presented at a 1.33:1 full frame aspect ratio, the show looks as good as any, relatively new television series. Colors do not appear to be washed out and everything flows across the screen smoothly.

The audio for this DVD comes in the form of an English, Dolby Digital 2.0 soundtrack. Everything is loud and clear. There is no need to toggle the volume. The track is as dynamic as it needs to be for a children’s television show. There aren’t really any audio problems to discuss. The track also comes with the option of closed captioning.

Visual: 4 out of 5 stars
Audio: 4 out of 5 stars

Bonus Features:
There aren’t any bonus features included.

Bonus Features: 0 out of 5 stars

Bottom Line:
I loved the Berenstain Bears when I was growing up. I’ve already let my son and nephew watch this show and I believe that every parent should allow their children to enjoy these well written, lesson building episodes. The Berenstain Bears: Family and Friendship DVD comes highly recommended. Whether you’re a parent, older sibling, grandparent, aunt/uncle, family friend or another relative, you need to buy this for those very special children in your life.

Overall Rating: 3.57 out of 5 stars

Technorati Tags: Berenstain Bears, Family and Friendship, Sony, DVD Review, TV show, PBS, Kids Show, Lessons, Stan and Jan Berenstain

To enter you need to be 18 years of age and a resident of the US. If you have won a contest within the last 30 days you are not eligible. Winners will be announced here. If we do not hear from you within 3 weeks from the date the winners are announced you forfeit your prize and we will select another winner. Prizes will be shipped within 45 days from the day you win.

We will choose a winner for this the week of June 25, 2008. This means that you have until June 24, 2008 at 11:59 PM EST to enter the contest.

Description (Courtesy of Amazon.com):
What did you do on your summer vacation? Elmo spent a lot of time at the beach and he wants to tell you all about it! How do you spread out a towel on the sand? How do you scratch your back? Can you take a picture with a camera? Join the curious red monster and his pet goldfish Dorothy as he explores Beaches Skin and Cameras in this fun DVD. Includes all-new songs!

Technorati Tags: Elmo, Sesame Street, Kids, Childrens Programming, TV on DVD, LI Kids, Contest, Giveaway

Hit Entertainment has a hit on their hands with their Bob the Builder television series and DVD releases. I’ve always loved cars and trucks, especially when I was little. Having a three year old nephew who is obsessed with trucks and construction made reviewing Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges a breeze.

I’d never seen the show before, even though my son, who is now 13, claims he used to watch it on Nickelodeon. I wasn’t really surprised by how good a show Bob the Builder is. I was surprised by how much I, as an adult, liked this DVD.

Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges, and I’m assuming all of the other various Bob DVDs and episodes, really do teach kids about building. I’m pretty sure I learned a thing or two, myself. I don’t know much about actual construction. Bob the Builder is a child friendly version of Bob Villa, though I think Bob the Builder might actually be more interesting!

Release Information:
Bob the Builder originated in the UK. It has played on various television networks in the United States. It aired on Nickelodeon until 2005 when it moved to PBS Kids. The show also aired on CBS from 2001-2002. Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges is a newly released version that is based on the television show, but offers a new, Bob formula with Bob and his crew discussing and then building. Then live-action on site construction sites show the same thing that Bob just did. There are also segments that feature kids building their version of roads and bridges.

Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges is a production of Lyons and Hit Entertainment. It is being distributed by 20th Century Fox. Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges was released on February 5, 2008. It is available at all major retailers including Amazon, where it is on sale for $14.99 USD.

The Plot
Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges has shown me just how far Claymation has come. Gone are the days of Gumby, who was the primary Clay-animation figure of my childhood. Bob and his crew are attractive, clay figures, with no visual flaws. In this newly released DVD set, Bob introduces children and adults, both old and new fans of the Bob the Builder television show, to the wonders of construction.

In Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges, everything a child or adult could ever want to learn about construction on roads and bridges is learned. Through songs, repetition and actually viewing construction, the lessons are emphasized. The show follows a formula. First, Bob explains the steps to build something. He mentions what machines are used in the building experience. Then Bob and his crew build it. Finally, he shows live-action footage, “on site” as actual construction is performed. After Roley, a green steamroller on Bob’s crew, sings his catchy little tune, “How do you do it?” (in this episode he’s teaching squirrels and rabbits how to build roads and bridges), children build their version of whatever Bob is building.

Some of the characters involved in Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges include Muck (bulldozer), Scoop (backhoe loader), Benny (excavator), Tumbler (concrete mixer), Roley (steam roller), and Lofty (crane). There is also a grater, in the live action sequences, that cleans away the dirt when the road is being made. Bob goes through how he makes a plan before building anything. He either draws up his plan or her makes a model. He explains that people who make plans when building are often called surveyors.

Bob then explains that there are three stages to building a road. Stage #1 is digging. Since the rain would wash the road away, Bob and crew have to dig a hole for it to sit in. Stage #2 is building the foundation. In it, lots of rocks, stones, and gravel go into the hole. They have to be heavy for a steady foundation. Finally, Stage #3 is the laying the road stage. Concrete is poured onto the foundation. Asphalt is poured on top of that. Then a steamroller rolls it flat. After Bob shows images of real machines making a road, Roley sings “How do you make a road?” Then children, use sand and water, rocks, and wooden planks with bricks at the ends, to make their own version of a road.

After learning about roads, Bob talks about building, what is called, ‘a road in the sky’. Bob mentions there are three kinds of bridges and he looks through his archives at some of the bridges he and the crew have built in the past. The bridges are beam bridges, arch bridges, and suspension bridges. Then, he shows kids building a bridge. Beam bridges have supports under them. Arch bridges, have arches to support them, and suspension bridges are suspended by suspension supports above them. Bob even shows how bridges are replaced. After Roley sings “How do you build a bridge?” there are more segments about live action-on site building.

Then the entire episode is reviewed. There are kids playing and drawing roads with chalk. There are plenty of live action sequences of building. Bob talks about how roads meet at intersections. There is a final song by Roley and then Bob gets a call. He has to go build a road and bridge. This is how the DVD ends.

Universally entertaining for parents and children, Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges is geared towards a toddler and preschool audience. Little B, loved this DVD. He has watched it several times since the first time we watched it together. I think any child would benefit from watching Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges. It’s a fun way to learn new facts about construction. Besides, Bob’s voice is very soothing, so the annoyance factor many children’s television shows seem to have, due to screechy voices or obnoxious singing, are missing from this series.

Storyline/Plot: 4 out of 5 stars
Replayability: 5 out of 5 stars
Acting: 4 out of 5 stars
Directing: 4 out of 5 stars

Audio/Visual:
Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges is transferred in fullframes at an aspect ratio of 1.33:1. The clay animation is flawless. There aren’t any issues with animation. Colors are vibrant. I was impressed. It’s pretty much as good as it gets for cartoon video quality.

Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges is available in basic Dolby Digital stereo sound. This set features three languages, English French and Spanish. Subtitles are available in all three languages as is closed captioning. This is standard sound quality and it sounded pretty good for not being enhanced.

Visual: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Audio: 3.5 out of 5 stars

Bonus Features:
Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges didn’t have any bonus features. There is the ability for Auto Play, but it seems pointless with absolutely no extras to watch.

Bonus Features: 0 out of 5 stars

Bottom Line:
Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges was one of the most enjoyable learning experiences I’ve had with the recent, child friendly shows I’ve been given the chance to watch. If your child loves building, construction, trucks, or Bob the Builder then you definitely need to purchase Bob the Builder On Site: Roads and Bridges. Your child won’t be disappointed.

Overall Rating: 3.57 out of 5 stars

Technorati Tags: Bob the Builder, On Site, Roads, Bridges, construction, PBS, Nickelodeon, CBS, 20th Century Fox, Kids, TV Show, Claymation

I love cartoons and kids shows. Some might even say I’m a big kid. I’m partial to the shows I grew up with in the 1980s, so it’s rare when I find a modern day show that really tickles my fancy.

Sure, I like some of the preschool aged shows like Max & Ruby, The Backyardigans, and Wonder Pets, because I feel they all have great educational value and preschool aged kids love them. Still, I can’t spend all day watching the Nick Jr. line up, unless a little one is around. I have found that many cartoons, these days, lack that universal appeal shows like Garfield, The Smurfs, and Heathcliff seem to retain.

What I mean by this is that pretty much anyone, of any age group, can get into watching these cartoons. I’m not ashamed to admit I watch all of those cartoons as well as the Transformers, just to name a few. So, when I find a modern day show that appeals to people of all age groups, even if it might be geared towards a pint size audience, those shows are gold. I’m please to announce that I’ve found that in the PBS Kids, animated television series, Jakers! -The Adventures of Piggley Winks.

Release Information:
Jakers! – The Adventures of Piggley Winks first debuted on PBS (and various other stations worldwide) on September 3, 2003. The show has been airing for what IMDB says is 4 seasons and 3-4 years of taping. Jakers! – The Adventures of Piggley Winks doesn’t seem to have ended though it isn’t clear whether new episodes are going to be developed or not. For now, fans can enjoy re-runs at 3:30 PM EST on PBS in the USA. For other countries, check local listings.

Jakers! – Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm is set to be released tomorrow, February 19, 2008, by Paramount Home Video. The show is designed in CGI, though it isn’t overly offensive like the cartoons that start out as two dimensional figures and morph into CGI. I can deal with the CGI if the show has always been that way, and it has. For everything else, though, I’m an animation purist. Jakers! – Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm is available for pre-purchase through Amazon. You can order your copy of Jakers! – Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm for $13.99 USD.

The Plot
Honestly, what’s not to like about Jakers! – The Adventures of Piggley Winks? The format for the show is excellent. I love how each story is told. The plot isn’t anything that is too cerebral, so young children can understand it. It isn’t too juvenile either. It’s a nice blend of storytelling, moral lessons, and adventure. Perhaps that is why, I, as a 27 year old man can watch it with my nearly 30 year old girlfriend, our 13 year old son, and 3 year old nephew. Surprisingly enough, all of us, in our various age groups, enjoy this show.

Each episode starts out with one of three, modern day piglets, having the typical problems American kids seem to have. There’s Meg (Melissa Disney) and the younger twins, Sean (Nika Futterman) and Seamus (Nika Futterman). The piglets are anthropomorphic, as are many of the animals in this show. However, some of the anthropomorphic animals have their own pets and farm animals that do not exhibit human characteristics or talk.

Anyway, always there to lend a helping hand in solving the problem for the piglet kids is their Grandpa, Piggley (Peadar Lamb) who tells them stories about his adventures as a boy, growing up in Ireland. We occasionally see the kids’ mother/Piggley’s daughter (Russi Taylor) though not enough to really matter much.

Once the story begins, the landscape is transported to that of rural Ireland and the town of Tara. Piggley (Maile Flanagan), now eight years old, lives there with his father, Padrig (Charlie Adler), his mum, Elly (Russi Taylor), and his little sister, Molly (Tara Strong). He is often joined on adventures at Raloo Farm, where he lives, by his two best friends, a duck named Dannan O’Mallard (Tara Strong), and a bull named Fernando “Ferny” Toro (Russi Taylor). To add a little fun to the series, there is also one sheep in the flock on Piggley’s farm, that can talk. His name is Wiley, and he’s voiced by the phenomenally talented Mel Brooks.

There are four episodes included in this DVD set. The episodes with a small synopsis of each, are listed below.

1. “Treasure Hunt” – The grandsons of Piggley are hiding outdoors. They don’t want to clean their rooms. Piggley tells them why cleaning can be fun. It can lead to an unexpected “treasure”. He tells them the story of the time he didn’t want to do chores. Piggley, Dannan and Ferny are too busy playing as space invaders outside. Mum calls him in to do his chores, so he has them wait outside. Once he’s indoors, Padrig tells Piggley that if he goes and gets the eggs he just has to have the chores done by the evening. So, Piggley runs out and gets the eggs. Surprisingly, underneath one of the chickens is a box with a clue to find a hidden treasure.

Overhearing about the treasure, Wiley the Sheep decides he’s going to follow the kids then steal the treasure for himself once they do all the hard work. As Piggley, Dannan and Ferny race around the farm, searching for clues, they end up doing all of Piggley’s chores in the process. Tired and ready for their treasure, they make their way to their final destination, only to find a very well earned surprise and the realization that all the chores are done so they can now have fun.

2. “Our Dragon’s Egg” – Sean and Seamus want to keep a baby chick as their pet. Piggley tells them the story about the time he found a dragon’s egg with Ferny and Dannan. Some animals are wild and aren’t to be kept as pets. In the story, after finding the egg, the three try to get the chickens to warm the egg, but it’s too big and the chicken rejects it. Then they try and get Wiley to keep it warm while he sleeps. When Wiley wakes, because he feels something odd under him, he thinks he is able to lay eggs. Unfortunately for him, when he’s bragging excitedly to the other sheep, the egg bounces away, back to Piggley. With no one else to warm the egg, Dannan decides to do it herself.

Piggley and Ferny set Dannan up in the barn. They leave her with a bucket of water to drink and set out to find the dragon food, so when it hatches it will have something to eat. Having drank too much water, Dannan has to go to the bathroom so she must abandon the egg, which hatches right after she leaves. Finding the egg has hatched and Dannan no where to be found, Ferny and Piggley, who have been joined by Molly, mourn Dannan’s loss.

They are scared as they hear the dragon, honk, from somewhere in the barn. When Dannan returns, they realize the baby is harmless. They trap it in a bucket and bring it in the house. When their dad sees the “dragon”, he tells them it’s really a baby swan, and that they need to take it back to its mother. They end up finding the Momma swan, but not before the baby bonds with Piggley.

3. “Dannan Does a Jig” – One of the twins wants his brother to do karate, but the other one isn’t as interested and doesn’t feel he is as good at it. Grandpa Piggley tells the boys about the time Dannan tried to learn to do a jig. Dannan’s grandma, who she lives with, comes to school to teach the kids to dance. Dannan can’t seem to get it right so Piggley decides he’s going to teach her to dance. After his methods don’t work, Dannan tries everything she can think of to learn to dance, but she keeps failing at it.

That night, she has a dream her grandma comes back to school. Dannan dances so funny, everyone laughs at her. Dannan wakes up from her nightmare and grandma comforts her. She tells Dannan that as long as she tries to do her best, grandma will be proud of her. Dannan is reassured by grandma and doesn’t care what people think when she does her jig the next day. The twins decide they both have some good moves and decide to practice karate, together.

4. “Growing Pains” – Meg, who just had a birthday, gets to stay up later. The twins have their same bedtime and it’s not fair. Grandpa Piggley tells them about the time he wanted to be a grown up. They get to have all the fun, he says as an eight year old. Piggley doesn’t want to do his homework. He wants to listen to the radio show, but his mum won’t allow it if his homework isn’t finished. At school the next day, the mailman comes in to the schoolhouse to tell the teacher Piggley’s father sprained his ankle. With his mother out for the day, Piggley needs to come home to help run the farm.

An excited Piggley is ready to be an adult, but Dad just wants him to watch Molly. Piggley convinces him he can run the farm, so Dad has him do the chores. Every chore Piggley does, something goes wrong. He makes the well pump overflow, he makes the animals mad by not feeding them fast enough, and the list goes on. Finally, an exhausted Piggley comes in to have to make Dad and Molly lunch. He makes them sandwiches with peanut butter, sardines, and a bunch of other stuff.

Molly spills her food all over herself, and Piggley is trying to clean it up when Mum calls. He ends up overflowing the sink and leaving the wet rag on Molly’s head. Once he finishes up, it’s outside for more chores. Dannan and Ferny spend the day lamenting about how lucky Piggley is and how much they miss him, but Piggley realizes that being a grown up is quite hard, so he’s ready to go back to being a kid. Unfortunately, he can’t do that until after one of the sheep give birth to a lamb he has to deliver.

It’s easy to see why Jakers! – The Adventures of Piggley Winks is an award winning show. It subtly teaches children life lessons, while entertaining it’s audience. This audience can be in any age group. The message and enjoyment of this show is universal. I loved Jakers! – The Adventures of Piggley Winks and I loved this DVD. The voice actors rocked and the whole series of episodes held my interest from start to finish.

Storyline/Plot: 5 out of 5 stars
Replayability: 5 out of 5 stars
Acting: 5 out of 5 stars
Directing: 5 out of 5 stars

Audio/Visual:
The video quality was near perfect. An anamorphic transfer really gives Jakers! – Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm the oomph it needs to look stellar. The video quality is transferred at an aspect ratio of 1.78:1. The entire picture quality is excellent. Everything is clear. Colors are vibrant, contrast is sharp and the visual CGI animation is ideal for this entire series. Overall, I am quite pleased with the video.

The audio quality is nearly as good as the video. Jakers! – Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm offers Dolby Digital 2.0 Stereo Surround in English, French, and Spanish. Closed Captioning is available and supported. Everything from the catchy theme song to the Irish accented voices come through loud and clear. For a 2.0 soundtrack the sounds are surprisingly rich and full.

Visual: 5 out of 5 stars
Audio: 5 out of 5 stars

Bonus Features:
I’m really impressed because Jakers! – Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm has some different special features. I normally expect kid’s shows to not have any, but this DVD has multiple bonuses.

The first feature is “Piggley’s Storyteller Playhouse”. This has several segments. It’s a live action performance, which features adult actors. An audience of children gets to help the actors brainstorm about writing a story and then seeing it acted out through rap, rhyme, singing, or group participation. There is another feature, “Meet the Grandparents”, where a grandparent tells a story to her grandchildren about an incident that happened when she was little.

There is a read along story called “The Great Fairy Test”. This can allow a child to read it on their own or they can follow along with the narrator. Finally, there are previews for other Jakers! DVDs including Jakers! – Sheep on the Loose.

Bonus Features: 5 out of 5 stars

Bottom Line:
Jakers! – Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm is truly a delight to watch. If you have kids or if you don’t, you can check out the series on PBS, weekdays at 3:30 PM. If you like it, you’ll love this DVD. If your kids already love Jakers! – The Adventures of Piggley Winks you need to buy Jakers! – Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm. Both you and your children won’t be disappointed.

Overall Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Technorati Tags: DVD Review, Jakers!, Treasure Hunt on Raloo Farm, PBS Kids, Ireland, Piggly Winks, Adventure

Culver City, CA (January 28, 2008) –Sony Pictures Home Entertainment announces two new DVD releases of from the Emmy®-nominated PBS KIDS® series It’s a Big, Big World on March 25. The first volume, Be Healthy and Happy, teaches valuable lessons about how animals of all kinds take care of themselves. The second volume, Everybody’s Different, encourages exploring diversity in nature. Each volume will feature five entertaining adventures and will include a subscription card which offers 25% off a year’s subscription to the new preschool magazine, Highlights High Five®. The new It’s a Big Big World DVDs will retail for a family-friendly SLP of $12.99 each.

Created by Daytime Emmy® winner Mitchell Kriegman, (2003, Outstanding Directing in a Children’s Series, Bear in the Big Blue House; 2002, Outstanding Directing in a Children’s Series, The Book of Pooh; 2001, Outstanding Directing in a Children’s Series, Bear in the Big Blue House), It’s a Big, Big World is a ground-breaking series that encourages parents and children to develop environmentally friendly habits and choices. Set in an exotic rainforest, It’s a Big, Big World follows Snook, an energetic tree sloth, and his friends as they learn about the world around them in stories packed with music, humor and adventure.

Synopses

It’s a Big, Big World: Be Healthy and Happy
Balance
Wartz is upset that he can’t balance on the seesaw with the monkeys. But after practicing tai chi and learning more about amphibians, Wartz realizes he has his own type of balance!

Wartz’s Work Out
Wartz decides to quit hopping, but soon he isn’t feeling very well. Snook explains that exercise helps you feel good and the pair learns how other animals get their exercise.

Sappy Monkey
When Winslow celebrates the first day of sap season by eating too much sap, Smooch and Snook teach him about the importance of a healthy diet.

A Good Heartbeat
Wartz and Bob feel their hearts beating fast and are afraid they have swallowed drums until Snook and Oko teach the pair about hearts and heartbeats.

Roots Rock
Wartz learns from the other animals how they all do their part to keep the World Tree healthy and then discovers that he is also an important keeper of the tree!

It’s a Big, Big World: Everybody’s Different
World Tree Cuisine
It is time to celebrate the World Tree’s birthday and all of the animals start dropping hints to ensure that foods they eat are included in the cake.

Ick Alone
Ick has heard that some birds eat fish and now he’s afraid of Burdette. But after he admits what is worrying him, he learns that birds have different diets.

One Monkey Too Many
Wartz spends the day with Smooch and Winslow trying unsuccessfully to be a monkey until he remembers some of the cool things about being an amphibian.

Ant Ray Vision
While Snook wants to see things from a butterfly’s point of view, Bob tries to get an ant’s perspective and learns how big the big, big world is!

The Big Race
When Winslow wants to organize a World Tree race, Snook suggests a relay race and soon everyone in the tree is racing at their own pace.

Technorati Tags: Childrens DVD, DVD Release, Health, It’s A Big Big World, PBS Kids, Upcoming Releases, Volume

Los Angeles/New York (Jan. 24, 2008) – Join beloved Thomas the Tank Engine™ and all his Narrow Gauge friends, as they head off on exciting adventures in the all-new DVD Thomas & Friends: Engines and Escapades, arriving in stores nationwide March 4, 2008. Thomas and his Narrow Gauge friends Duncan, Rusty, Freddy, Skarloey, Rheneas, Sir Handle, controller Percival and Thomas’ newest friend Madge, the kindly snub-nosed truck, come down the tracks in these six never-before-seen adventures with storyteller Michael Brandon. In addition, children can sing-along with the puffing steam cloud to two music videos.

“Duncan Does It All” – Duncan, the engine who enjoys staying busy, has become bored with his usual job of transporting straw around Sodor. His desire for exciting new work leads to a day of job-hopping, taking over the duties of his engine friends with the promise to do a good job. But after realizing he never completed any of the tasks he agreed to do, he quickly corrects his mistake, learning that it’s always important to keep your word and finish what you start.

“Sir Handle in Charge” – Sir Handel, one of the oldest and wisest of the Narrow Gauge Engines, likes telling others what to do. When the depot controller Percival gives him the responsibility of fulfilling a very important special, Sir Handel sets out to find the very best engines to complete the task. The others offer their help, but in his one-track-mindedness to find them, he winds up not actually listening to them, soon realizing that he hasn’t assigned anyone to the work. He quickly tracks the other engines down and the job gets done in time, leaving Sir Handel with the lesson of how important it is to listen.

“Cool Truckings” – It’s winter and snow covers the Island of Sodor. Madge, the kindly snub-nosed truck, is tasked with bringing Duncan to the transfer yard to pick up a load of coal. Though she is all about road safety, it doesn’t take much prodding from Duncan to tempt Madge to forgo common sense and undertake exciting new driving maneuvers. But after a crash and a dangerous encounter with the edge of a cliff, Madge chooses responsibility over recklessness and delivers Duncan safely to the yard.

“Ding-a-Ling” – Engine Freddy knows more about the island’s countryside than just about anyone. But when he is tasked with delivering Percival’s shiny new red bicycle, he can’t seem to find a new bell for it anywhere! When other types of bells – cow bell, clown bells, a school bell – fail to be a perfect match for the bike, a newly refurbished fog horn inspires Freddy to have Percival’s old bicycle bell polished up and transferred to the new bike, showing how worthwhile and rewarding recycling can be.

“Skarloey Storms Through” – On a rainy day, Engine Skarloey comes across a farmer in need of having his sheep transported down from the top of the hill to safety from an impending storm. Frightened by the increasing thunder and lightning, Skarloey hides out, letting the other engines do all the work. But when they have done all they could, Skarloey musters up the courage to come out and fight his fear to finish the job.

“Wash Behind Your Buffers” – Madge is back, this time tasked with making sure Engines Rheneas and Skarloey are washed and polished for the upcoming County Fair and Engine Parade. Racing throughout the countryside, Madge gets the job done but finds herself coated with mud and very little time to get cleaned up herself so she can pull the parade’s brass band! After a quick bath, all three vehicles are spotless and ready to roll!

Thomas & Friends: Engines and Escapades Fast Facts:

Street Date: March 4, 2008
Pre-Book Date: February 6, 2008
DVD SRP: $14.98 (U.S.), $15.98 (Canada)
DVD Running Time: Approximately 50 minutes

Technorati Tags: DVD, Engines and Escapades, Narrow Gauge Friends, Thomas and Friends, Thomas the Train, Upcoming Releases