Sunday, 27 December 2015

Does The Moon Sleep?

I read the book ‘Corduroy’ which was written and illustrated by Don Freeman.

It’s a wonderful story about a toy bear called Corduroy who lives at the department store but wants to be taken home.

When the little bear finds that he has lost a button he goes on an adventure to find it, unfortunately he’s found and returned to the toy department.

All ends well when a little girl likes the little bear and brings him home where they become forever friends.

In my view this is a beautiful story that reflects imperfection and a longing to be wanted that is shown in a positive way.

Many children long to be wanted and loved by their families, the latest games, toys and merchandise does not make up for the quality time you could spend playing with your child, once that time has gone there’s no turning back the clock.

It’s definitely worth reading, young children will like it.

My final thoughts on this book are that you don’t realize how emotional the ending is, when a lonely bear and a lonely child finally find each other. I think it’s beautiful.


Read it now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 20 December 2015

Can Animals Dance?

I read the book ‘Giraffes Can’t Dance’ which was written by Giles Andreae, with illustrations by Guy Parker-Rees.

It’s a wonderful story about a giraffe called Gerald who had four left feet or legs in his case.

When all the animals at the annual jungle dance make fun of Gerald’s dancing he leaves very sad. He wished he could dance.

When a cricket helps Gerald find the music that he loves, his dancing comes naturally.

Back at the jungle dance Gerald shows off his dancing moves and impresses them all.

A great end to the story for Gerald, beautifully illustrated.

In my view it’s a lovely story that’s so familiar to a lot of children and adults alike.

If we attempt to do something that’s done incorrectly we’re either laughed at or it’s frowned upon.

Not all of us are high achievers but like Gerald we are unique we must find our own way to achieve the same thing. Just because something has been done one way does not mean that it cannot be done in another way?

So the message here is never give up until you find the music that comes naturally to you.

I would definitely recommend reading this book.

My final thoughts on this book are that it’s a lovely book for both children and adults.


Read it now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 13 December 2015

Who’s Corduroy?

I read the book ‘Corduroy’ which was written and illustrated by Don Freeman.

It’s a wonderful story about a toy bear called Corduroy who lives at the department store but wants to be taken home.

When the little bear finds that he has lost a button he goes on an adventure to find it, unfortunately he is found and returned to the toy department.

All ends well when a little girl buys the little bear and brings him home where they become forever friends.

In my view this is a beautiful story that reflects imperfection and a longing to be wanted that’s shown in a positive way.

Many children long to be wanted and loved by their families, the latest games, toys and merchandise does not make up for the quality time that you could be spending playing with your child, once that time has gone there is no turning back the clock.

This book is definitely worth reading, young children will love it.

My final thoughts on this book are that I found the ending emotional, a lonely bear and a lonely child finally find each other. It’s beautiful.


Read it now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 6 December 2015

Do All Aliens Love Underpants?

I read the book ‘Aliens Love Underpants’ which was written by Claire Freedman, with illustrations by Ben Cort.

It’s a delightful story about aliens that come to Earth and steal Earthling’s underpants.

They have fun with the underpants and particularly like the elastic.

They sound like a very strange bunch indeed!

My view is that it would be difficult for aliens to steal underpants from my washing line as I haven’t got one; I use a dryer.

It’s definitely worth reading, young children will like it.

My final thought on this book is that it’s a fun book about aliens who like playing with pants.

But remember bring your washing in at night to stop your underpants from going missing!


Read it now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 29 November 2015

A Very Puzzled Monkey?

I read this popular children’s story book called ‘Monkey Puzzle’ to my grandson the other day.

It’s written by Julia Donaldson and beautifully illustrated by Axel Scheffler.

This delightful children’s story is about a little monkey who has lost his mum in the forest.

When a butterfly tries to help he always gets it wrong, introducing the wrong animals along the way.

I wonder if the little monkey will ever find his mum.

It’s a wonderful book for young children and my grandson loves listening to me read this book to him.

Afterwards we look through the pages together to find other insects and bugs in amongst the beautifully illustrated pages.

The rhyming storyline is great and I’d definitely recommend this book for young children. 

My final thoughts on this book are that it’s sad but has a happy ending children will love it. If you look closely daddy monkey has been eating the fruit, I wonder if he’s left any for the little monkey?

Read it and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 22 November 2015

Harry The Dirty Dog?

I read the book ‘Harry the Dirty Dog’ the other morning which was written by Gene Zion, the pictures are by Margaret Bloy Graham.

It’s a delightful book about a white and black spotted dog called Harry.

He hates baths and when he learns that he’s to have one he hides the scrubbing brush and runs away from home.

When he’s hungry he returns home dirty, unfortunately his family doesn’t recognize him.

However Harry has a plan to show the family that he is indeed Harry?

The story shows how Harry has to comply in order to prove his identity and to get his dinner and sleep in his little bed.

The lesson for small children is that they need to listen to their parents as they only want the best for them.

It’s definitely worth reading.

So my final thoughts are; it’s a lovely book to read to young children.


Read it now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 15 November 2015

Do You Like Green Eggs And Ham?

I read one of my favourite books the other day called ‘Green Eggs and Ham’ written and illustrated by Dr Seuss.

A very entertaining and funny children’s story about a character called ‘Sam I Am’ that keeps pestering his friend about eating green eggs and ham, throughout the story his friend refuses but at the end decides to try them and guess what? He liked them.

The rhyming and illustrations of the book are wonderfully done.

It’s an enjoyable book that I would definitely recommend reading to children.

So my final thoughts on this are; could I eat green eggs and ham?

I don’t think so ‘Sam I Am’ I prefer a dish of fish!

 Now how’s that for rhyming?


Read the book and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 8 November 2015

You Can Do Anything?

I read the book ‘Amazing Grace’ the other afternoon which was written by Mary Hoffman, with illustrations by Caroline Binch.

It’s a wonderful story about a little girl called Grace that loves acting.

When a part in the school play needs a Peter Pan, Grace Holds up her hand in confidence.

It’s only when two of her class mates put obstacles in her way that she begins to doubt herself as one inform her that she’s a girl, the other that he wasn't black.

Her loving family tells her that she can be anything she wants if she puts her mind to it.

And with that in mind Grace proves them both wrong and captures the lead role.

A child will voice their opinion if something appears different to what they have seen before and this book shows that.

The message in this story shows that children are capable of becoming whatever they want to be in life with encouragement from adults.

I would definitely recommend reading this book.

So my final thoughts are; you can be whatever you want to be, just work hard then you’ll achieve it.


Read the book and let me know what you think?

Sunday, 1 November 2015

Can A Fly Do A Flyby?

I watched ‘A Fly Went By’ on You Tube one afternoon.

The book is written by Mike McClintock with illustrations by Fritz Siebel.

A very entertaining children’s story about a little boy who watches a fly being chased by a frog, however all is not as it seems and after a number of animals are seen chasing each other, the little boy finally finds out the truth.

It’s the lambs fault, but that’s not exactly the truth either, however it does have a lamb in it; you’ll just have to read it or as in my case watch it to find out the ending.

A wonderful rhyming book, lots of fun, it captures the imagination as you never know what’s chasing each animal or why.

It’s definitely worth reading or watching, like in my case. 

So my final thoughts on this book is that it’s the most enjoyable book about a fly I have ever read so far, young children will love it.


Read it or watch it now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 25 October 2015

What’s A Tree Fu?

I watched Tree Fu Tom on CBeebies the other afternoon with my grandson.

The programme begins when a real boy Adam Henderson turns into a miniature animated super hero called Tom and has adventures in the forest with his bug friends.

The animated stories are quite funny and when a problem comes up, Tom interacts with viewers asking for their help. Tom is voiced by Sophie Aldred.

The viewers are encouraged to do a sequence of moves to increase Tom’s power and turn the magic on.

When Tom collects the power his belt glows and he can then use the magical power in order to save the day.

It’s a great action adventure series for both boys and girls, they will enjoy it.

In my opinion the moves are great for fitness in both children and adults, even I’ve joined in; at least it got me off the sofa!

My final thought; I’d love to shrink down to miniature and ride on the back of a bird, just think how much I’d save not using my Oyster card?

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 18 October 2015

What’s A Woolly?

I watched Woolly and Tig on CBeebies the other day with my grandson.

This children’s programme is about a little girl called Tig played by Betsy McCredie and her toy spider called Woolly voiced by Jamie Oram.

The series is produced by Tattie Moon and narrated by Maisie McCredie.

The theme tune is very catchy and great to sing-along to.

Often when Tig can’t get her way she gets upset and pulls a strop.

Then Woolly her toy spider intercepts he becomes animated and explains to Tig why it’s not nice to be unkind.

When Tig says sorry to her parent she feels better and they enjoy the rest of the day together, until Woolly scares somebody.

Then Tig says her catchphrase, “It’s only a toy spider.”

It’s definitely worth watching, young children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s a brilliant children’s series that show Tig experiencing new things.

My final thought; this programme is great for young children who may be going through the same experiences, by watching Tig it may encourage them to try new things too?

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 11 October 2015

Where’s Justin’s House?

I watched Justin’s House on CBeebies the other morning with my grandson.

Justin’s House is presented by Justin Fletcher and is recorded in front of a live audience.

This children’s show is full of comedy, music, dancing and singing; the theme tune is also catchy and great to sing-a-long to too.

Justin is a wonderful entertainer, with his sidekick Robert the Robot played by Steven Kynman they make the show fun and exciting to watch.

They work well as a double act or a triple act if you include little monster!

The children love it and interact with Justin and Robert the Robot when they imitate the instruments when the instrument song comes on.

My opinion it’s a great show for all the family especially for children of all ages, they’d love it.

My final thought; Justin’s house looks fun, I’d like to go and visit someday, how about you?

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 4 October 2015

What’s A Beastie?

I watched ‘Minibeast Adventures with Jess’ the other morning with my grandson. He liked the bugs!

The Minibeast Adventures with Jess series is shown on CBeebies and is written and produced by Claire Bradley.

This series is an excellent first nature series that introduces children to all types of bugs and insects.

Each episode show Jess with little helpers that go on adventures to look for insects out in the great outdoors.

Jess French is the host of the children’s series she’s great at explaining everything there is about the insect or bug found.

It’s a wonderful nature series for children of all ages.

In my opinion this series is very educational, it should be shown in schools, even I’ve learnt a lot by watching it.

My final thought; is that you never know what’s lurking in the garden or even outside your own front door?

Why not go and take a look and tell me what you found or watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 27 September 2015

Why Do Clangers Whistle?

I watched the Clangers on CBeebies the other morning with my grandson.

The Clangers was created by Oliver Postgate. The series is narrated by Michael Palin.

The Clangers are a family of adorable knitted aliens that live on and inside a small blue planet; they look a tiny bit like an elephant with a trunk, but they have no ears, and they’re Pink in colour!

To communicate with each other they whistle; they also have some very unusual friends like the Soup Dragon and the Iron Chicken?

The stories and animation are great. The theme tune sounds quite dainty it reminds me of a merry go round.

This children’s series is very entertaining and also shows problem solving.

In my opinion it’s a lovely series that show family and friendship, you could say they’re a close knit family!

It reminds me of when I was a child; I never knew the Clangers were Pink as our television was a black and white set!

My final thought; if we communicated in whistles, what would the sound of a child’s frustration sound like? What do you think?

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 20 September 2015

Can Tea Travel?

I watched Teacup Travels on CBeebies the other afternoon.

It was created and produced by Plum Films with support from Creative Scotland.

This children’s programme is based around historical fiction, with the stories being told by Charlotte and Elliott’s great aunt Lizzie, played by Gemma Jones.

When either Charlotte or Elliott visits their great aunt, they are invited to choose a tea cup from many that depict pictures.

Whatever illustration is shown on that tea cup, a story is then told about it, as they sip tea they’re swept into the magical adventure as the story is played out.

The actors, backdrops and props are fantastic; the show is very well put together.

It’s definitely worth watching. 

In my opinion, it’s a lovely children’s series that’s exciting to watch.

My final thought; it’s a great children’s drama, modern with a touch of oldie worldly.

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 13 September 2015

Going To Big School?

I watched Time for School on CBeebies the other afternoon with my grandson.

This children’s reality series is filmed at two different schools, Holy island and Lowick first school. 

Time for School is narrated by Rebecca Keatley.

The theme tune is quite catchy and great to sing-along to.

This programme shows reception school children experiencing school life as it happens.

It’s filmed in such a way that it doesn't seem to affect the children as they enjoy school activities.

It’s definitely worth watching. 

In my opinion it’s a great series for young children to watch, especially if they are about to start school.

My final thought; it’s great to see the teachers helping children learn through play to make their time at school a happy and positive one.

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 6 September 2015

What’s A Wussywat?

I watched Wussywat Clumsy Cat on CBeebies one morning, however my grandson had other plans he went off to play with his toys.

This children’s series is about an inquisitive cat that always gets into a muddle and his clumsiness gets him into trouble.

It’s narrated by Liza Tarbuck.

The illustrations and animation look great.

The story lines are fun, with a play on words, for example my favourite character is a Tortoise called Ortus.

Other characters in the series include Duckadile the Crocodile, Ird the Bird and Oggy the Doggy; now you know why pre school children are confused!

In my opinion, older children would love the story lines but may think it too babyish because of the characters names, as for pre school children they may not understand the story.

My final thought, I have never heard of a cat being called a ‘Wussywat’ before, have you?

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 30 August 2015

Who’s Squawk?

I watched Swashbuckle on CBeebies the other day with my grandson.

This children’s programme is a game show that is themed around pirates, my grandson likes pirates.

The theme tune is very catchy and great to sing-along to.

Hosted by Gemma Hunt she enlists the help of four children who compete in a series of games to find her stolen jewels, hidden by pirates.

It’s fast, action packed and full of fun as the children race against the clock to search for the missing jewels.

Captain Stinker, Cook and Line the pirates are enjoyable to watch too, plus there’s a parrot called Squawk keeping an eye on everyone.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s one of the best children’s programmes that are fun and exciting to watch.

My final thought, they should make an adult version!

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 23 August 2015

What Is A Prairie Dog?

I watched little Prairie Dogs on CBeebies the other day, my grandson watched with interest.

This children’s programme tells the story of brother and sister Prairie Dogs Tate and Sage and their adventures exploring their home on the North America’s prairies.

It’s a wonderful wildlife programme for children, with sounds and other wildlife shown. 

Kate Sachs narrates.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s a great children’s programme that show animals in their own environment.

My final thought, it’s educational, enjoyable and fun to watch!


Watch an episode and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 16 August 2015

Who’s Ann Teak?

I watched Gigglebiz on CBeebies one afternoon when my grandson was sleeping.

This children’s television programme is a live action comedy sketch show, ideal for all the family to watch.

The theme tune is catchy and great to sing-along to.

Justin Fletcher plays a lot of characters. He’s brilliant, very funny and is a great entertainer.

My favourite character is Ann Teak (a play on words) she is suppose to be an antiques expert but knows nothing about antiques. She usually ruins or breaks whatever she’s examining.

It’s definitely worth watching, older children and adults will love it. 

In my opinion, Justin Fletcher is in a league of his own; a very talented man and a master of disguise!

My final thought; it’s enjoyable and fun to watch.


Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 9 August 2015

Who’s Big and Small?

I watched Big and Small on CBeebies the other day with my grandson.

This is a children comedy series featuring puppets, one big and one small, they live together in a house and garden in the countryside.

The two best friends don’t always see eye to eye however they always resolve the issue and are friends again by the end of the show.

The puppets Big and Small are voiced by Lenny Henry, the other puppets are voiced by Imelda Staunton.

It’s definitely worth watching if you’re into puppets, music and comedy.

In my opinion, very young children may not understand some of the story lines. 

My final thought; what type of creature is Big? and Small?


Watch an episode now and let me know what you think?

Sunday, 2 August 2015

Who’s Timmy?

I watched Timmy Time on CBeebies the other day with my grandson.

Timmy Time was created by Jackie Cockle.

The stop motion animation is great, the theme tune catchy.

It’s a delightful children’s television series about a little lamb called Timmy and his nursery antics.

Timmy likes to do things differently from his animal friends usually disrupting the class in the process, however he always learns from his mistakes.

The storylines are wonderfully creative and humorous.

My favourite character is Timmy his facial expressions have me in stitches.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s a great children’s television series that encourages friendship.

My final thought; the start of the series is particularly beautiful, when all the young animals dance towards the nursery.

On the sidelines you see Timmy handing his dummy to his mummy it’s so adorable, he’s a big lamb now going to nursery it’s just great to see such detail.

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 26 July 2015

What’s Tinga Tinga?

I watched Tinga Tinga on CBeebies the other morning with my grandson. He loves the brightly coloured animals.

The fusion of Tingatinga Art combined with African folk tales are shown in wonderful animation all thanks to Claudia Lloyd the series creator.

This delightful children’s television series is based on African folk tales and is narrated by a Red Monkey voiced by Eugene Muchiri / Geoffrey Curtin.

The music and catchy theme tune was produced by Eric Wainaina.

It’s very amusing I must admit it’s one of my favourite children’s television series so far.

All the animals have different accents. The elephant is voiced by Lenny Henry.

The storylines, songs and animation are great, it’s definitely worth watching the children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s a great children’s television series that encourages friendship, teamwork and leadership.

My final thought; it’s enjoyable and fun to watch even for adults!


Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 19 July 2015

What’s A Groovy Move?

I watched Show Me Show Me on CBeebies with my grandson the other morning he especially likes the ‘show me your groovy moves’ part.

In a playgroup on the top floor of a tower we listen to stories, sing songs, play games and have fun with the presenters Chris Jarvis and Pui Fan Lee.

They’re so energetic I don’t know where they get all their energy from.

The children’s television series features the toys; Stuffy, Mo Mo Bot, Miss Mouse, Toddler Tom and Teddington Bear, they are all very good actors too!

My favourite character has to be Pui. I like it when she dresses up as a nursery rhyme character and wants to buy something from the shop, it’s very amusing.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it.

In my opinion, it’s a great children’s television series for young children, very educational. The theme tune is catchy too.

My final thought; Chris and Pui are very entertaining and funny to watch.


Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 12 July 2015

What’s A Salty?

I watched Old Jack’s Boat on CBeebies one afternoon when my grandson was sleeping.

Old Jack’s Boat is a children’s television series played by live actors.

The theme tune is very catchy.

It features Bernard Cribbins as old Jack and his faithful companion called Salty the dog his real name is Scuzz.

Old Jack tells quirky little stories on board his boat the Rainbow.

The Rainbow is an unusual boat, it looks like a wreck at the quay, but when old Jack steps on board it magically transforms into a new colourful one.

Old Jack’s Boat is filmed in Staithes on the North Yorkshire coast, the scenery is beautiful. It’s definitely on my list of holiday destinations.

My favourite character is Emily Scuttlebutt played by Janine Duvitski she likes gossip and is a bit scatty.

The series features other well known actors, Freema Agyeman, Paul Hawkyard, Helen Lederer and Nadine Marshall.

It’s definitely worth watching older children and adults will love it, however not sure if preschool children would enjoy it as they get bored quite easily. 

In my opinion, it’s a wonderful children’s series it reminds me of Jackanory a story with live actors.

My final thought, it’s enjoyable and fun to watch, but why did they change the dog’s name from Scuzz to Salty?


Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 5 July 2015

What’s A Balamory?

I watched Balamory on CBeebies the other morning with my grandson.

Balamory is a live action Scottish children’s television series filmed mostly in Tobermory on the Isle of Mull.

It was created by Brian Jameson. The theme tune is catchy.

The children’s series is about a fictional island community called Balamory in Scotland, the setting and the different coloured houses are spectacular.

The series begins when Miss Hoolie the nursery teacher opens up the nursery and tells us the weather. The nursery soon fills up with school children where the school day begins.

The children’s series features songs, dances and the odd exercise routine provided by Josie Jump, the most energetic person in Balamory.

My favourite character is Edie McCredie the bus driver she is always happy and pleasant to everyone she meets.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

In my opinion it’s a great children’s series that encourages problem solving and friendship. It’s very educational.

My final thought; the shop and café called ‘Pocket & Sweet’ run by Suzie Sweet and Penny Pocket is brilliant.

They stock everything and are very friendly to their customers; maybe the big chains could learn a thing or two!


Why not watch an episode now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 28 June 2015

Where’s Zoo Lane?

I watched 64 Zoo Lane on CBeebies the other afternoon with my grandson.

64 Zoo Lane was created by author An Vrombaut.

The music is by Rowland Lee; the theme tune is beautifully sung by children.

This children’s television series is about a little girl called Lucy who lives next to Zoo animals.

At night a Giraffe allows Lucy to leave her bedroom window to slide down her neck into the Zoo for a wonderful bedtime story. A different story is told each night by one of the Zoo animals.

It’s a wonderful animated children’s television series featuring stories, music and songs.

The animation is great it look’s like it’s just come out of a picture book it’s definitely worth watching the children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s a great children’s series encouraging friendship and kindness to animals.

My favourite episode is called ‘Georgina the Giraffe’ she gets herself tied into a knot, the storyline and the song that she sings are hilarious but that’s just my opinion.


My final thought, it’s enjoyable and fun to watch but don’t take my word for it watch an episode now and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 21 June 2015

What’s A Numberjack?

I watched the Numberjacks on CBeebies with my grandson a few months back.

The Numberjacks is a children’s television series that was produced by Open Mind Productions and combines computer generated animation with live action.

The theme tune is catchy, the animation is great.

The Numberjacks are animated numbers from zero to nine that live in a sofa or what I usually call a settee!

A child agent contacts the Numberjack’s for help, the most suited Numberjack is then sent on a mission to deal with the problem in order to solve it.

My favourite character is a villain called the Spooky Spoon who always mixes things up and likes causing problems.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s a great children’s series that encourages mathematics and problem solving, it’s very educational.

My final thought; it’s entertaining, but could be scary for toddlers especially with the evil villains in the series!

Watch an episode now and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 14 June 2015

What’s A Lingo?

I watched the Lingo Show on CBeebies with my grandson some time ago, he loves it.

The Lingo Show is an animated children’s television series hosted by a Ladybug called Lingo. He has a team of bug performers that speak in a different language.

The series was created by Nicole Seymour, produced by the BBC and animated by Dino Productions. The characters were designed by Kate Sullivan.

The show combines live action with animation which works really well and the theme tune is very catchy.

In each episode a different bug is chosen to perform at the Big Bug Show, but before they can perform they need to get some props to use.

Whilst these are chosen we learn the name of each prop in a different language.

The bug then entertains the children at the Big Bug Show, performing tricks with the props found at the beginning of the show.

My favourite bug is Jaadoo he speaks Urdu and rides a unicycle; the singing, music and animation is fun to watch.

This children’s series is interactive, educational and encourages children to learn a new language; it’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

My final thought; fun and enjoyable to watch, even for adults!

Why not watch an episode and let me know who your favourite bug is?


Sunday, 7 June 2015

What’s A Tilly?

I watched Tilly and Friends on CBeebies the other day with my grandson, he likes the Elephant.

Polly Dunbar is the author and illustrator of Tilly and Friends.

The theme tune is catchy; the animation has a dainty dated look which works well with the illustrations.

The children's television series features a little girl called Tilly who lives in a yellow house with a red door.

She has many wonderful little adventures with her friends; Tumpty the Elephant, Pru the Chicken, Tiptoe the Rabbit, Doodle the Crocodile and Hector the Pig.

My favourite character has to be Doodles she loves eating apples, even the unripe ones!

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s a great children’s series that encourages teamwork, leadership and friendship.

My final thought; Tilly is a beautiful person, she's patient with her friends and always likes to make them happy.

Are you patient enough to watch an episode and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 31 May 2015

Is Dave Ruff Or Just A Tweet?

I watched Ruff-Ruff, Tweet & Dave on CBeebies the other morning with my grandson.

He loves it, and is mesmerised by the children’s programme, he thinks the television’s interactive and tries to press the answers to the questions when shown as pictures on the screen.

It’s an education children’s programme that features a Hamster called Hatty, a dog called Ruff-Ruff, a bird called Tweet, and a Panda called Dave; they go on wonderful adventures together on the Spin-Again which looks like a spinning top that blows bubbles.

Hatty the Hamster wears a magical hat that asks multiple choice questions; Ruff-Ruff, Tweet and Dave each give an answer to the question then Hatty asks the children watching too to choose before the correct answer is given.

The storylines, multiple choice games and songs are great for young children and even adults.

My favourite character is Tweet, the cute fluffy chick that wears glasses.

In my opinion it’s a wonderful children’s series, education with colourful animation and a catchy theme tune.

My final thought: Dave is always the first to fall asleep do you think he had a Ruff day?


Watch an episode and tell me what you think?

Sunday, 24 May 2015

What’s A Tweenie?

I watched the Tweenies on CBeebies with my grandson the other morning.

The theme tune is catchy the costumes are great; the children’s series was created by Will Brenton and Iain Lauchian and developed by Tell Tale Productions.

The Tweenies is a children’s series that feature colourful characters in a playschool setting, with a touch of animation which works really well.

The two adults Max and Judy try to keep Bella, Milo, Fizz and Jake entertained.

When the Tweenie clock changes colour the Tweenies activities change to one of the following; song time, story time, news time, messy time, or telly time but when all the lights glow together its ‘surprise time.’

Oh yes we mustn’t forget the two large dogs Izzles and the talking dog Doodles.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

This children’s series is very entertaining, I especially like ‘Song Time,’ when the Tweenies sing and dance to a nursery rhyme; some are more familiar than others.

It’s even funnier when they dance, look out for Milo he’s so energetic his dance moves are great I don’t know where he gets all his energy from.

My favourite character has to be the youngest of the bunch young Jake, he often gets his words mixed up and is quite cute.

In my opinion the Tweenies is great for children, it’s educational, entertaining and fun to watch.

My final thought: if you have a colourful exterior, a fun personality and are excellent singing rhymes and dancing you must be a Tweenie!

Watch do you think?


Sunday, 17 May 2015

Get Well Soon?

I watched Get Well Soon on CBeebies the other morning with my grandson.

Dr Ranj Singh the singing and dancing doctor helps children understand different medical conditions and the treatment needed to make them well again.

The programme uses puppets as patients, with children as healthy helpers assisting Nurse Morag when answering questions about the body.

It’s a brilliant children’s programme using terminology that most children can understand.

What make’s it even more so, is the fact that Dr Ranj Singh is a real-life peadiatrician who works for the NHS, it’s refreshing to see an actual expert on a children’s television series.

Morag Calder is not only an actor but she’s also a trained nurse that likes to act, fortunately she can do both in this series.

In my opinion it’s one of the best children’s programmes shown, it’s educational and informative.

The method in which it’s played out encourages children of all ages to go and see a doctor if they feel unwell.

The songs in the show are great; even Nurse Morag has a song called, “Ask The Nurse.”

The theme tune is catchy, “Be happy, be healthy and get well soon,” which is a great line to remember; it also makes you feel great when you sing along to it.

In my opinion if all doctors were happy and entertaining like Dr Ranj it would make going to the doctors much more pleasurable!

My final thought: I think John Moray in the Paradise looks a little like Dr Ranj?

Watch an episode from both series and tell me what you think?


Sunday, 10 May 2015

A Misunderstood Bean?

I watched Mr Bean in the episode called ‘Super Trolley,’ one morning on ITV it’s great for older children and adults.

I like the theme tune and Mr Bean’s little dance at the end of the series; he’s definitely got some groovy moves!

In my opinion the animation looked a bit dated and reminded me of an old comic book however it works really well, they've captured the character completely especially with his actions and expressions, the series is very amusing.

My favourite character is Mr Bean, a man of few words and misunderstood by many!

In the ‘Super Trolley’ episode Mr Bean goes shopping to buy three packets of his favourite cereal with a surprise gift inside each packet, unfortunately his experience is not a good one let’s just say it doesn’t end well.

My final thought: Mr Bean is a highly intelligent individual he prefers the company of his Teddy rather than people; it’s logical really they don’t answer back and you can win every argument?

What do you think?

Sunday, 3 May 2015

Is A Menace A Bully?

I watched Dennis the Menace and Gnasher on CBBC out of curiosity the other day.
                                                     
The children’s series is about Dennis who’s a mischievous little boy; he likes to play tricks on his family and friends with his dog named Gnasher; together they are truly menacing to everyone they meet.

When I was just a child my mum used to buy three comics to keep us occupied the Dandy, Twinkle and Beano.

Remembering Dennis the Menace in the Beano, I was intrigued to see if the animation in the children’s series captured him correctly; in my opinion the style is similar to that of the comic.

However Dennis’s voice surprised me, I thought it would have been deeper, also he’s turned into a rock dude I assume as rock music is heard throughout the programme.

My favourite character is Gnasher he’s got the same hair style as Dennis, it reminds me of a lady I know she styles her hair in the same way as her poodles, unless it’s the other way round!

My final thought: Can you distinguish between a menace and a bully?

In other words should we call bullies, menaces instead?

What's your views tell me what you think?

Sunday, 26 April 2015

What’s A Wild Adventure?

I watched Andy’s Wild Adventures on CBeebies the other day; my grandson loves animal programmes.

Andy’s Wild Adventures is a wildlife programme for children featuring Andy Day as Andy the Park Keeper at Pickles Animal Farm; his sidekick is Kip a cat inventor.
                                                  
The story lines are about adventures around the world. 

Andy and Kip fly on a Kip mobile; a flying car invented by Kip that can take them to a country of their choice where they can see wild animals in their own habitat.

Andy Day is great in this children’s programme, his facial expressions put a smile on my face, he’s funny and he always gets so messy!

It’s a great wildlife programme for children, very educational, informative and funny and the theme tune is very catchy.

In my opinion it’s a great wildlife programme for adults too although it’s not exactly done in the style of David Attenborough.

My final thought I think Andy should be sent to the wild for real to do a wild animal or bug documentary, now that would be educational and really funny to watch?

What do you think?                                                

Sunday, 19 April 2015

What’s A Twirlywoo?

I watched a new children’s programme on CBeebies last week called the Twirlywoos; my grandson loves it.                                           

The Twirlywoos was created by Anne Wood and is narrated by Linda Bassett; the theme tune is catchy and the stop frame animation is great.

The Twirlywoos feature the Great BigHoo, Toodloo, Chickedy, Chick and Peekaboo, their unusual little creatures that look like birds without beaks. Peekaboo looks a little like an Owl.
                                                     
The children’s programme starts with a red boat crossing the sea carrying three yellow ducks as lookouts.

Once it reaches the shore the boat sounds its horn and the Twirlywoos go on an adventure to a live indoor or outdoor setting; they wait and watch and then repeat the action in their own mischievous way which always causes havoc.

So far, Peekaboo has not ventured out of the boat he can just about manage to come out from behind the wall!

I have no favourite character, they are all great.

It’s definitely worth watching, young children will love it.

Its educational teaching something new to the children in each episode; I would imagine this is how a toddler could view something new? 

In my opinion it is a lovely programme to watch, it feels spacious not clogged up with too much detail or colour, absolutely brilliant, but that’s my view.

My final thought; I wonder what Peekaboo is hiding behind the wall, it seems far more interesting than going on an adventure?

What do you think?

Sunday, 12 April 2015

What’s A Compostarium?

I watched Mr Bloom’s Nursery when it was aired on CBeebies; my grandson likes watching the talking vegetables.

The gardener Mr Bloom is played by Ben Faulks.
                                                   
Mr Bloom wears a trilby hat and wellies and welcomes children to his allotment to help tend his plants and vegetables; he calls the children Tiddlers.

It’s a brilliant children’s programme, it encourages planting and shows how to recycle vegetable products by using a compost bin that Mr Bloom calls his a Compostarium!
                                          
The veggies; Colin the runner bean, Raymond the butternut squash, Joan the fennel, Margaret the cabbage, Sebastian the aubergine and a group of mischievous radishes called the MacGregors are introduced in the song 'Meet The Veggies,' sung by Mr Bloom; it’s very catchy.
                                          
My favourite character is Mr Bloom he’s very entertaining and informative.

This is a great educational programme that encourages planting and recycling. It also shows how to look after plants and vegetables.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it.

In my opinion, it’s a great programme for grown-ups too!

My final thought; if I sing to my veggies do you think they will grow any quicker?

What do you think?  

Sunday, 5 April 2015

Do You Have Magic Hands?

I watched Magic Hands on CBeebies the other day, when my grandson was playing.

Camilla Arnold is the writer, director and producer of Magic Hands.

The theme tune is catchy, the animation basic.
                                                           
Magic Hands is a children’s poetry series for young children that features animation; it’s translated using British Sign Language.

Ashley, Donna, Aimee and Simon feature in different episodes signing and acting out the poem. They pick and create pictures out of the air to tell the story; remarkable if only real life was like that!

In my opinion, it’s unique, not sure about some of the poems that are read out; some don’t rhyme and children like rhyme.

Perhaps a future series children could be encouraged to write poems to send in; to be animated, read and acted out by child actors?

My final thought; it’s a great introduction to poetry for young children.

What do you think?  

Sunday, 29 March 2015

What’s A Kerwhizz?

I watched Kerwhizz on CBeebies the other day when my grandson was sleeping.

The theme tune is catchy, the CGI animation is great.
                                                    
Kerwhizz is a live action animated quiz show for children.

Jacob Scipio features as the presenter or should I say Kerwhizzitor of the game show.
                                           
The quiz show starts off with the Kerwhizzitor asking questions for the team; Ninki, Twist and Kit to answer; afterwards they race against each other in pods cheered on by children.

My favourite character is the Kerwhizzitor; he’s very enthusiastic and tells bad jokes it’s very entertaining.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

In my opinion, it’s a great children’s quiz game that encourages teamwork and leadership; it’s also educational.

My final thought; its fast past and enjoyable to watch – so keep up!

Watch the series and tell me what you think?  

Monday, 23 March 2015

What’s A Neuron?

I watched Nina and the Neurons on CBeebies the other day.

Although the children's programme is aimed towards four to six year old's my two year old grandson enjoys watching it; maybe he’ll be an engineer or scientist one day?
                                                       
The show Nina and the Neurons is produced by Lucille McLaughlin.

This drama series features Katrina Bryan who plays Nina; experiments are conducted with the assistance of children together with the Neurons; five animated characters that represent her senses, Luke her sight, Belle her hearing, Ollie her smell, Felix her touch and baby Bud her taste.

At the beginning of the programme children ask a question; Nina invites them to join her and try out some experiments to find out the answer.

My favourite character is Nina she’s full of energy and is always smiling.

It’s definitely worth watching, the children will love it. 

In my opinion it’s a great show to watch, very educational and is also interesting for adults too!

My final thought; the ‘Go Engineering Song’ is great, it’s got the good feel factor.

When Nina starts singing so do I, if everyone sang the 'Go engineering song' in the morning it would definitely put a smile on your face!

Watch Nina and tell me what you think?