Blue Clouds
(Smithsonian Folkways $14.99 Score:)

You know that moment when you're in your child's nursery and the sun pours in?  No one's crying, no one needs a diaper....you're just enjoying being together.  Elizabeth Mitchell's new release Blue Clouds feels like the soundtrack for that perfect moment. A collection of deliciously accessible songs that highlight Mitchell's voice. The arrangements are simple--with guitars, piano, fiddles, and bass.  While the press release for this recording highlights that some of the music is from the likes of such legends as David Bowie, Jimi Hendrix, and Van Morrison, none of that seems very important here.  The take away, is a lovely collection of music to share. Click here to hear a sample.

Age: Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, Early School Years. Award Year: 2012. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

Little Seed: Songs for Children by Woody Guthrie
(Smithsonian Folkways $11.99 Score:)

Elizabeth Mitchell rocks this collection of Woody Guthrie songs. Right from the start with Riding in My Car we knew we were in for a treat. Her bright, strong voice makes you relax and enjoy these great songs in a new way.  She makes each song her own.  You could imagine Woody listening for a bit, smiling and then joining in.  Children's music at its best. This CD was just nominated for a GRAMMY! Click here to hear a sample.

Age: Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, Early School Years. Award Year: 2012. Click here to purchase the product on Amazon.com.

Bright Spaces
(Rounder, Rounder $10.95 Score:) A must-have collection of wonderful songs sung by the best in children's music. The voices of Arlo Guthrie, Woody Guthrie, Jessica Harper, Dave Mallett, Cathy and Marcy, and Sweet Honey in the Rock are brought together for this collection to benefit homeless children. Between Woody Guthrie's "This Land Is Your land" and Dave Mallett's "Garden Song"--all seems right with the world! (800) 768-6337.

Age: Infants,Toddlers,Preschool,Early School Years,Later School Years. Award Year: 2002.

Folksongs & Bluegrass for Children
(Rounder, Rounder $10.98 Score:) From the minute the disc starts spinning, you'll be singing along and tapping your foot! Phil Rosenthal's collection starts with "The Train Song" rolling down the track, and on to "In The Jungle," followed by such well loved songs as "Six Little Ducks," "The Paw Paw Patch," "Mama Don't Allow," and "Aiken Drum" among others. A winner! (800) 768-6337.

Age: Infants,Toddlers,Preschool,Early School Years,Later School Years. Award Year: 2002.

Kids, Cars & Campfires
(Red House Records, Red House Records $15 Score:) If you were going to buy one new collection of folk tunes, this is it. Bill Staines, Tom Paxton, Sally Rogers, the Chenille Sisters, and other great singers combine forces--the only thing missing are the marshmallows! Songs include "Froggie Went a Courtin'," "Little Brown Dog," and "Your Shoes, My Shoes." (800) 695-4687.

Age: Infants,Toddlers,Preschool,Early School Years,Later School Years. Award Year: 2002.