By Angela, Contributing Writer

(prize section updated)

Ever heard of “Symphonic Art Animation?” I hadn’t either until I was sent these amazing DVDs. The Little Laureate‘s developmental series for children ages 1 to 4 (My World Gallery, My World Colors and My World Adventure) literally blew me and my kids away. Because these? Are nothing like your “typical” baby/toddler DVDs. No mind numbing sock puppets here!

In these DVDs, the main character, Star (and her sister Starlette), lead your child (and you – these DVDs are designed for a shared experience with you and your child) on a journey through famous works of art, culture, and classical music. It’s hard to articulate just what a visually stunning journey this is. Famous pieces of art are “constructed” on the screen, one piece at a time, in tempo with the music (some of my favorite pieces of classical music), teaching colors, art appreciation and even foreign language as you go. And be sure to check out “The Crawl,” an onscreen parent guide of art history, parenting tips and family art activities (a unique feature to this series). This series is amazing! Even my 5 year old could not take his eyes off the screen and asked for more when each DVD was finished!

Each set is only $34.95 and includes the 30-minute DVD, 60-minute CD of classical music performed by the Moscow International Orchestra, and 24 page parent booklet that contains information on the art, artists and music along with expert tips on raising a creative child.

• My World Gallery is a movable feast of art and music that explores over 500 years of art, from Van Gogh to Picasso to living artists (Andy Warhol showed up a lot!)
• My World Adventure is an interactive, cross-cultural journey to all seven continents that features art, animals, architecture, geography, climate and how to say “I Love You” in five different languages (English, French, Spanish, Italian and Japanese).
• My World Colors uses art, architecture and even international street signs to present the colors of the rainbow spectrum in order (a Kindergarten requirement in most states) in 3 languages (English, French and Spanish – Chinese characters are also used).

And I’m not the only one who thinks so highly of this series. Check out the numerous awards bestowed on them, including the prestigious Dr. Toy’s 100 Best Children’s Products for 2007.
Bonus? Check out the web page for a handy online (grand)parents guide and “kids corner” where you can find coloring pages featuring favorite characters from the DVDs. [Ed: You can also check out some clips from the series here.]

These DVDs are perfect for holiday gifts for that special child in your life. And to make your shopping easier, use the code PROMO for a buy one get one free special through 12/31/07.

Want to try your luck at winning the whole series? We’ve got three complete sets up for grabs! Send one email to theopinionatedparent@gmail.com by midnight MST on 12/20/07 with Little Laureate in the subject line and tell us the name of the brains behind the company. Three winners will be randomly selected from all correct entries. Congratulations Elizabeth, Betty & Melanie!