Baby Einstein Review and Giveaway

I remember when Baby Einstein Videos fist came out 10 years ago. The simple, colorful visual images along with soothing music was (and still is) a refreshing contrast to the "boom boom boom" flashiness of many children's videos.

I received the Baby Mozart DVD, which was perfect for me, since I'm a music teacher! I think it's so important to expose the young mind to the order and structure of music, and the research supports that theory! I loved this video, and so did the kids. Even my three year old was attentive as the unique perspectives of the camera shots on intricate images were accompanied by soothing music.
We also explored the Lullaby Classics CD, with selections by Baroque and Classical Masters, and the Touch and Feel Farm Animals book.The book gives another dimension to the reading experience. And lest you think these books are only for babies, I caught my almost eight year old sneaking a touch of the textures, while trying to look cool!
Of course, you can't just plop your baby down in front of a DVD and have them become an "Einstein," but Baby Einstein videos and products provide a jumping off point to quality interaction and cognitive development of your child. I encourage you to watch the videos and listen to the CDs with your child and learn together. Here are some activities you can do to get the most out of your time together.

From the Video Theme to the Real World Scene Whenever there is an opportunity to link what you have seen on the DVD to other experiences in baby’s life, make that connection. For example, if you watched a DVD about animals, you might say, “Oh, look. There’s a BIG fish on the screen. Do we have another fish in our house?” And off you go to look at your gold fish. This kind of activity shows baby that something we see in one place can be seen in other places too.

Bring it to Life If children or puppets on the DVD are jumping or dancing, you can hold your little one and dance along to show baby how it feels. You can also play infant sized musical instruments to accompany the DVD Orchestra. Or, try using puppets or baby’s favorite stuffed animals to mimic the action in the DVD. You may get giggles from your little one. Babies usually want to do what they see and you can make that happen.

Make it a Family Affair Consider using DVD time as a way to interact with the whole family. If baby has an older sibling(s) around you can invite them watch the DVD with you. Encourage your older child to point out the names of the animals, say the colors, or even make animal sounds. They will probably love playing with baby and will be excited about showing off how much they know!

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And now for the GIVEAWAY! Comments will be open through Thursday, December 18!

I'm giving one reader of Real Life Review a chance to win your choice of the DVD, CD, or book! (pick one)

• Hop over to BabyEinstein.com and choose your favorite developmental product. Leave a comment on this post.
• If you follow me on Twitter, you get an extra chance.
• If you tweet or blog this giveaway, you can get a third chance. be sure to begin your tweet with @sarahsingforhim so Ill know.