Bear in the Big Blue House - Happy and Healthy [VHS]

Bear in the Big Blue House, Happy and Healthy is a cheerful and lively 48-minute video packed with songs, stories and information for two to seven year olds. Produced by The Jim Henson Company, this two-episode video features Disney Channel's favourite seven foot Bear and his colourful muppet friends.

The first episode "The Big Blue House Call" attempts to tackle children's fear of the doctor. When Doc Hogg pays a visit, Bear explains to his friends the importance of check-ups and with a song he coaxes Ojo the frightened bear cub from under the bedclothes for his vaccination. The second show "Picture of Health" emphasises that rest is as important to good health as a balanced diet and exercise. Bear successfully advises exhausted mouse Tutter that he will feel stronger and refreshed if he takes a short sleep.

Youngsters will quickly warm to Bear who is friendly, confident, curious and cuddly. He encourages a participatory mood with his young audience by moving very close to the camera and talking directly to them. He even claims he can smell his healthy young viewers! Songs play an important part in setting the pace. Each episode starts with the cast belting out "Welcome to the Blue House" and finishes with the striking image of Bear on the balcony and the moon character Luna singing a harmonious duet. There are three additional original songs per episode, many with funny and memorable lyrics.

Visually stimulating and mentally engaging, youngsters will find this educational video lots of fun.--Tracy Hogan