Baby's First Impressions - Video Encyclopedia [VHS]

Not solely for the diaper crowd, this truly outstanding, multiple award-winning series from the makers of Bilingual Baby provides stimulating sensory fodder to toddlers, preschoolers, and kindergarteners. Topics ranging from shapes to letters, sounds to seasons, and anatomy to animals teach specific concepts and a wealth of vocabulary words by blending captivating sights, sounds, written words, and smart narration. The result is impressive: about five hours of high-quality, high-energy video that both educates and thoroughly entertains.

Every aspect of these tapes deserves praise. Take, for instance, quantity of content. "Letters" (volume 3) dedicates a full minute to each member of the alphabet; "Opposites" (volume 5) examines 30 pairs of words; and "Food Fun" (volume 10) offers a charismatic study of several dozen foods, including their tastes, colors, textures, and uses. The amount of content covered is admirable; however, the multisensory way each volume presents its material is truly exceptional. Outstanding camera work captures imaginative footage indoors and outdoors, and the occasional use of slow-motion or stop-motion photography keeps little eyes intrigued. Sensational music (varied throughout the series) and zippy scene changes keep the action moving. Pulling it all together is the helpful narrating voice that gently introduces words, points out interesting sights, and sometimes leads viewers through fun-filled review sessions. (See individual videos for more reviews.) --Liane Thomas