For the Kids music CD will rock the entire family. It’s a collection of old and new kids songs produced and sung by… well… not Barney. We think the idea to produce an album that pleases kids and parents alike is a Nobel Prize-worthy accomplishment, especially considering the time we spend in the car arguing about music selections. Sarah McLachlan, Guster, Billy Bragg, Dan Zanes, Cake, Barenaked Ladies, Tom Waits, and more! We joke that it should reduce our insurance premiums as it prevents so much debate and distraction on the road. You can listen to various songs on Amazon.com before you buy it. And there’s also a follow-up album called For the Kids Too!
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Despite the somewhat disconcerting cover image, The Philadelphia Orchestra’s rendition of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf, narrated by British pop idol David Bowie, is a welcomed addition to the countless existing versions of this timeless classic. Parents will be intrigued to hear Bowie, the ’70’s and ’80’s musical icon known for his eerily deep voice and highly dramatic performances, put his modern spin on the tale. And grandkids of all ages love this one — from the youngest who are introduced to each “character,” or instrument — to older ones, who may even gain an overall appreciation for classical music. We should note that the ending is changed in this version, and although this may not sit well with purists, it’s gentler, and thus, perfectly appropriate, for preschoolers. We’ve listened to a few non-Bowie renditions, and think this one is the best. It’s classical music for kids but also enjoyable for parents. Perfect for long car drives, when the entire family can lose itself in the story, then come together again to discuss its ageless lesson.
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Children's Songs, A Collection of Childhood Favorites$12.99 at Amazon.com |
Susie Tallman’s Oppenheim Gold Award-winning collection includes 38 classic children’s songs sung with a refreshingly contemporary twist. Parents (and some kids, depending on their age) probably won’t need to learn many new words. But they may find themselves a little out of tune, or rhythm, as they work their way through, and hopefully, fall in love, with Tallman’s contagiously playful and modern renditions of these sing-along favorites. Her strong, clear soprano voice, matched by a wide range of instruments, including clanging spoons and bells and whistles, are perfect for a child’s ears. And most adults will find her non-traditional approach entertaining, as well. If you like this one, we also recommend Susie Tallman’s “Lullaby Themes for Sleepy Dreams” CD (reviewed).
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Lullaby Themes for Sleepy Dreams$15.98 at Amazon.com |
Susie Tallman is a favorite of children and parents alike, as this CD’s Parent’s Choice Gold Award attests to. This worldly lullabies collection includes 18 classic and some lesser-known lullabies, all sung in her silky smooth soprano voice accompanied by the simple sounds of a guitar or piano. Mmmm… we’re nodding off as we write… It’s enough to make you swoon — and should certainly be enough to put any child to sleep without the usual fuss. We also suggest Susie Tallman’s “Children’s Songs, a Collection of Childhood Favorites” (reviewed). Collect them all!
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Amazon.com Gift Certificate$5.00 - $5,000.00 at Amazon.com |
Still can’t decide what to get your grandchild? Sometimes the best gift is allowing kids the freedom to shop online for their own special something. Amazon.com has more products to choose from than any other online retailer. Kids can spend hours, even days if they want, shopping for toys, books, clothes, electronics… almost anything they can think of! Trust us. So when in doubt give them an Amazon.com gift certificate. They’ll be in shopping heaven!
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