From School Library Journal
reS-Gr 2-Good intentions and a creative concept don't make up for the disappointing result in this cassette featuring participative games for young children. Two children are taken on a journey through four "magical realms:" "Horse Realm," focusing on the body; "Dolphin Realm," focusing on feelings; "Eagle Realm," focusing on relationships; and "Frog Realm," focusing on imagination. While the approach may be inspired, the overall result falls flat. The songs are mostly dull, featuring repetitive, sometimes saccharine lyrics sung or rhythmically spoken by different voices. A few songs with more creative lyrics are sung in an eerie, other-worldly style which children may find somewhat menacing. The voices of fairies and other magical beings are altered with synthesization, making them more creepy than endearing. Many of the songs have blank spots meant for children to sing, speak, or act out parts of the games, which are described in the accompanying booklet. Preschool teachers might find the games useful for their classrooms, but they will find the suggested activities in the booklet more palatable without the accompanying cassette. Hap Palmer's recordings are a much better choice for teaching children some of the same concepts and offering opportunities for creative interaction.
Rachel Quenk, Thomas Memorial Library, Cape Elizabeth, ME
Copyright 2001 Cahners Business Information, Inc.
Review
"When my daughter said, 'I'm going to play with my new friends now!" I was amazed to watch her turn on the tape deck and engage with the characters on
28 Instant Songames." --
A.C., ParentAs a music and movement teacher and performer who specializes in interactive music for young children, I am often asked by parents about tapes for children. Recently, I discovered two gems produced by Boulder based Belle Curve Records: Danceland and 28 Instant Songames. ... I only wish I had found these tapes before my June road trip with my two young children.
The quality of the music and the creative approach to learning on both tapes is incredible and inspiring. These are tapes that most parents will want to listen to and act out with their children. My children were dancing in the living room the first time they heard Danceland. They were verbally and physically responding to 28 Songames right away too. They and I enjoy these tapes in the house and in the car. We enjoy doing them together and the kids are also able to play with them when I'm working around the house or driving. I do try to pay attention and participate with them when I can, and I would highly encourage you to do the same. These are wonderful tapes to share with your child, or maybe that should be, your child should share them with you. -- Sue Schnitzer, Boulder County Kids, Summer 1998
My kids always ask to hear the tape "with Aunt Barbara." They just love it! I love it too because it inspires creativity in their play. Often times during the day I'll hear them singing the songs and playing the games from "Instant Songames" on their own. Thank you for your joyous creation. -- Erica Storre, OTR, mother of 3
