This 2007 Parents' Choice Approved Award winner offers a creative variety of music for children of all ages. The family-friendly audio CD features songs that promote tolerance and caring for the earth and its creatures, while spotlighting fun kids' favorites and soothing lullabies. "Love Makes a Family" is an original song about adoption. And "What Should I Dream About?" gives listeners a chance to identify the word painting provided. "Parents love this CD as much as children do!" Denise Mitkus, a member of the Peanut Butter Jellyfish band, told TDmonthly. "It's entertaining for the whole family and [is] a refreshing change from silly songs." Launch date: December 1, 2007.

The anti-Barney, the Wiggles' worst nightmare ... the last great hope for real rock n' roll for kids. This debut album by the Boogers was conceived by a punk rocker with a Ph.D in developmental psychology. The Boogers bring chord-driven rock and catchy melodies to kids with age-appropriate lyrics and subject matter. The cover art is by legendary underground comix artist and children's book author Jay Lynch. "Critics have hailed the Boogers as the first true Ramones-inspired band for kids," Paul Crowe, president of Spire Records, told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2009.

"Happy Accidents," the latest Billy Jonas recording, offers funky folk music for the whole family. It’s musical medicine for the mind, body and spirit — a splendiferous sonic sojourn into the near and far reaches of fun and fantasy, possibility and purpose, word-play, wonder, heart and hope. Jonas’ seventh recording and second “family” CD contains 19 songs (15 originals; four adaptations of traditional tunes) based on voice, percussion and strong, memorable melodies. "'Happy Accidents' includes Jonas’ trademark homemade 're-percussion’ drum set, as well as a glorious panoply of found sounds (rubber bands, body percussion, door squeaks, apple cider jugs), exotic kalimbas and marimbas, conventional instruments (guitars, bass, piano, banjo, accordion and tuba) and two-, three-, four-, and five-part vocal harmonies," Billy Jonas of Bang-a-Bucket Music told TDmonthly. Launch date: March 28, 2009.

"American Heroes #3" educates and inspires children with original songs about some of America's greatest citizens. Award-winning singer-songwriter Jonathan Sprout's careful research and creativity have led to this top-notch collection of pop-rock tunes with an educational focus. Launch date: January 13, 2009.

Children can compose and experience music at the most basic level, before ever picking up an instrument or learning to read. This series of interactive music activities facilitates experimenting with the fundamentals of pitch, rhythm and sounds of various instruments and styles of music. Children can compose their own music using the musical canvas feature, which "lets children experiment with composing music visually — they paint at the top for a high note, bottom for a low note, and use a variety of instruments, including rhythm section," Marina Terteryan, marketing coordinator for Alfred Publishing, told TDmonthly. The series includes "Making Music," "Making More Music," "Hearing Music," "Playing Music," "World of Music" (beginner) and "World of Music" (intermediate). Launch date: April 2008.

This book and CD collection features rich and diverse musical entertainment for young children and grown-ups. Led through "A World of Happiness" by engaging characters such as “Knowa’ the Cat” and “Lady Leo-Lani,” the ladybug, children will discover inspiring stories and toe-tapping, thoughtful songs. lyrics and sheet music are included, and each age-appropriate chapter focuses on a positive, universal character trait and contains a  “Happiness Activity." For teachers, there are accompanying music lesson plans designed and developed by Music Educators National Conference (MENC). "Each of the wonderful performers on the recording truly believes that the world can be a better place and that it all begins with the children," Marina Terteryan, marketing coordinator for Alfred Publishing, told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 2008.

"S.O.S. Songs of the Sea" combines music, creativity and fun for music teachers, classroom teachers, child care providers and kids. Students will enjoy learning about the sea and its creatures through the engaging songs and activities.  "This is an all-in-one activity kit for home or classroom use, with suggestions for ocean-themed decorations, songs, art activities and food. It can be easily implemented by non-musically-trained instructors, and the accompaniment CD lets the children sing along to each song. S.O.S. is created with the Orf philosophy of musical teaching," Marina Terteryan, marketing coordinator for Alfred Publishing, told TDmonthly. The product received a 2008 National Parenting Center Seal of Approval. Launch date: April 2008.

The award-winning Woodstock Music Collection offers a wonderful assortment of nearly 100 different musical gifts from around the world that make playing music as accessible as a box of crayons. These little maracas come in assorted colors and are just 4.75" long.
— These maracas were shaking right out the door at Kazoo & Company in Denver at the beginning of 2009, according to Owner Diana Nelson.

This album features fun children's music that encourages creative movement and embraces, enriches, and extends early learning through songs that are age- and developmentally appropriate, as well as relevant to themes in a child's world. As a former prekindergarten teacher, Brian has long been an advocate of the philosophy known as emergent curriculum — a system of creating lesson plans that are based on student’s passions and interests. It was through this process, including arrangement tips and lyrical ideas from children, that each song was crafted. The CD won the 2008 Children's Music Web Award for Best New Artist for Preschoolers Ages 0-5. Launch date: June 2008.

From the award-winning Banana Slug String Band come 10 toe-tappin’ tunes that celebrate all things water. Each song makes a perfect introduction to an elementary science lesson or just some danceable fun. Kids can grab their waders and wander from spring to sea in a musical adventure that’s wet and wild. Launch date: March 6, 2008.

This much-anticipated first album from New York City’s favorite kindie rockers, "The Jimmies," has already met with wide acclaim and plenty of toe tapping, with music running the gamut from rock, funk, pop and blues to reggae, hip-hop and even Dixieland. The group's clever lyrics, catchy hooks and sophisticated melodies add up to an album full of songs listeners won’t mind getting stuck in their heads. Launch date: April 22, 2007.

This adventure of good, old-fashioned fun features an upbeat collection of songs by Michael Plunkett that moves children from high-energy action to quiet-time. The songs are easy-to-sing and memorable, and offer valuable early learning opportunities, as well as activities that encourage creative movement and imaginative play. There’s also attention to building relationships, eating healthy foods, hygiene, manners and more. Shenanigans is great for the family to share, as well as a special resource for schools and libraries. "It offers a music style and lyrics that today's kids can relate to, and adults will also enjoy," Elaine Murphy, director of sales and marketing for Kimbo Educational, told TDmonthly. Launch date: September 2008.

"Moey’s Music Party" is a 17-song CD with fun songs that entertain and educate children — and get parents dancing, too. The songs are about manners, sharing, listening to parents, getting dressed, tasting sushi, and being a kid in New York City. They were inspired by award-winning, Off-Broadway songwriter Melissa Levis's (aka Moey’s) own experiences as a mother. “I Gotta Go Potty” was her son’s potty training mantra, and “Pierre Wouldn’t Wash His Hair” was her solution to his six-month hair-washing strike. The CD is a winner of Dr. Toy's Best Vacation Product 2008. Launch date: June 2008.

The “So Skip Counting” musical CD and companion workbook set features hip, musically relevant and mobile products that combine teaching with music. The math CD features original songs in 10 popular music genres: punk, folk, blues, funk, country, reggae, new wave, early '60s surf rock, classical ballad and electro pop. The introductory skip counting set, created after consultation with the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) and the State of Michigan Grade Level Content Expectations (GLCE) also includes a workbook to practice and test acquired skills, a laminated 100 chart, a pencil and a portfolio. Launch date: September 2008.

Kids can celebrate the magic of music with this handcrafted guitar that can be used for guitar classes, private lessons and study, or for play in a child's first “amateur band.”  A quality instrument is always beneficial when beginning the study of music, especially when the student is young. "This guitar is easy to play, tunable, and will help to keep a child pursuing one of the most rewarding pastimes in history: making music," Manager Kristy Schaffer of Schoenhut told TDmonthly. Launch date: December 2008.

With hip-hop, reggae and R&B grooves, the CD gets everyone dancing and singing while counting, spelling and learning. Kids love the high-energy sound and educational messages, and parents will be surprised and engaged by the cool and unconventional songs. The CD has been applauded nationally by parenting publications, teachers and music critics. It received a 2008 Parents' Choice Award and a 2008 National Parenting Publications Award. "Alphabet Rockers provides educational hip-hop to the preK-1st grade market, which is more often saturated with folk and traditional children's music," Kaitlin McGaw, co-owner of School Time Music, told TDmonthly. Launch date: October 23, 2007.

From Tiger Electronics, this remote-controlled, 29" dancing robot moves and two wheels and can tote an iPod or MP3 player on its back. Equipped with flashing LED lights, stereo speakers and hands shaped like turntables, the Automated Music Personality robot uses Dynamic Balancing Technology in order to move in a way that seems to defy the laws of gravity. Launch date: November 2008.

With Crosley’s Memory Master turntable and CD recorder combo system, simply put on an LP or pop in a cassette, load a blank CD and press “record.” For computer savvy collectors, the Memory Master is USB-enabled for connection to Windows-equipped Macs™ and PCs, and includes a software suite for ripping and editing audio content. The Memory Master also allows one to spin records, play cassettes and CDs, or tune in to a favorite swing or big-band station on the analog AM/FM tuner, using the full-function remote control for hours of nostalgic enjoyment. "Reintroductions of original vintage radios and turntables feature the newest technologies graced by unforgettable Crosley stylings," Director of Marketing Elizabeth Braun of Crosley Radio told TDmonthly. Launch date: August 2008.

This Crosley 2/3 scale CD Jukebox is the finest replica of the most famous juke box ever produced, the Wurlitzer 1015. Updated for our times, it features a state-of-the-art, 10 compact disc changer, an AM/FM radio, a full-function remote control and a 42-disc storage base. The Crosley Jukebox is also equipped with four speakers and four transformers, each appropriately thermostatically controlled to keep the internal components cool for hours of endless enjoyment. Each unit is individually checked and tested extensively to meet the highest standards of quality workmanship. "Today, the Crosley name lives on with superbly detailed replicas that truly transcend time," Elizabeth Braun, director of marketing for Crosley Radio, told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2001.

The Autorama CD represents a vintage icon, mimicking the clean, streamlined stylings of a classic 1950s automobile. From the sleek lines to the chrome grill side-mounted speakers, this beauty takes one back to the days of drive-ins and diners, but adds a hint of technological advance with a CD player. The Autorama CD features an AM/FM Radio, a three-speed turntable, a compact disc player and enough sophistication to render most enthusiasts speechless. Launch date: 2001.

Vinyls can be converted to CDs in minutes with just a few simple steps. The Keepsake allows old albums to be recorded in a digital audio format for high quality sound on a smaller, more modern compact disc. It easily interfaces with the USB port on any computer by utilizing the supplied software suite. However, if one still wants to enjoy albums old-style, Crosley’s Keepsake offers a three-speed turntable for listening enjoyment.

The Crosley Traveler Turntable is designed to reflect the portable stylings of yesteryear. This fan favorite is a three-speed, belt-driven turntable that plays 33 1/3, 45 and 78 RPM records. The Traveler includes modern conveniences, such as a diamond stylus needle and dynamic full-range stereo speakers. "Rich lines, retro designs and authentic crafting have made Crosley today’s premier vintage electronics manufacturer. True to the Crosley tradition, these replicas are as fabulous as they are functional, providing a delightful dose of nostalgia," Elizabeth Braun, director of marketing for Crosley Radio, told TDmonthly. Launch date: 2001.

The thumb piano or marimba is easy to play and has a quiet soothing sound. By gently striking the ends of the keys with your thumbs, you can play familiar melodies and rhythms or improvise your own. It is a fun instrument to play since anything you play on it sounds good. "The Schoenhut Thumb Piano has twelve metal tongues or keys," explained Kristy Schaffer, manager of Schoenhut. "It is primarily a percussion rhythm instrument. Simple songs are easily tapped out using only your thumbs. It is tuned to the C key. Each instrument is handcrafted." It won a 2005 Dr. Toy Best Children's Vacation Products. Launch date: 2005

This music CD has songs about the everyday lives of kids and their silly, gross and wonderful behaviors. Life lessons give each song a happy ending. The short 1- to 2-minute song lengths and variety of styles keep families entertained for the whole CD. "It dares to discuss fighting, biting, boogers, burps, diapers, dirt and warts in an educational and entertaining way," said Chris Bihuniak, Songwriter, Musician, Producer, Owner of 4Boys. Launch date: 07/01/2008

Follow Professor Pocket, Desi the Dinosaur and Chico the Chicken on a bilingual musical adventure to visit the very unique and magical farm where Chico was born. Listeners will be delighted to learn that pigs drive tractors, cows make chocolate milk and horses fly at this farm, where nothing is what it seems. A silly bilingual storyline, five original songs and a remake of the popular Latin American folk song, “Los Pollitos”, are sure to get the whole family singing and speaking along in Spanish. It's a Dr. Toy Best Products award winner. "Professor Pocket takes a completely fresh approach to language introduction," said Paula Jorge Guglielmino, co-founder of Professor Pocket. "Instead of bombarding listeners with vocabulary words, we seamlessly weave English and Spanish storytelling throughout our CDs and reinforce key concepts and vocabulary through songs." Launch date: 02/20/2007