July Filled With Video Releases For Children

Kermit the Frog and some new Muppet friends join with real kids in the new “Jim Henson’s Preschool Collection,” an engaging series of home videos featuring the Muppet Babies.

The initial release includes three titles - “Muppets on Wheels,” “Yes, I Can Learn” and “Yes, I Can Help” - each listed for $12.99.

The sing-along adventures by Jim Henson Home Video go beyond teaching ABCs by conveying wholesome values and lessons such as honesty and sharing.

On July 21, Walt Disney Home Video also is adding a fourth title to the “Pooh Learning” series. It’s called “Growing Up” ($12.99) and features Pooh and pals in the Hundred Acre Wood.

The four “Miss Christy’s Dancin”’ videos, which were recently awarded seals of approval by Parents’ Choice and the Coalition of Quality Children’s Video - Kids First!, are available at $12.98 and can also be ordered at 1-800-272-4214. Choreographer and dance teacher Christy Curtis has put together cassettes on “Tap,” “Jazz,” and “Ballet” for children ages 7 and up, and “Dance Adventures” for preschoolers.

Turner Home Entertainment releases “The Swan Princess” on Aug. 1 ($24.98, 90 mins.), an animated musical adventure featuring the voices of Michelle Nicastro, Howard McGillin, Jack Palance, Sandy Duncan and John Cleese.

MCA Universal Home Video is releasing “The Real Jurassic Park” on July 25 ($9.98, 55 mins.). Actor Jeff Goldblum and author Michael Crichton pose the question of whether scientists can create a real Jurassic Park.

Six of Shelley Duvall’s best “Tall Tales & Legends” have been repackaged and repriced at $9.98 ($54.98 for the full set). The titles: “Pecos Bill” (Martin Mull, Rebecca DeMornay, Steve Guttenberg); “Annie Oakley” (Jamie Lee Curtis); “Casey at the Bat” (Elliott Gould, Carol Kane); “Johnny Appleseed” (Rob Reiner, Molly Ringwald, Martin Short); “Legend of Sleepy Hollow” (Ed Begley Jr.); and “My Darlin’ Clementine” (Ed Asner).