In September 2007 PBS Television introduced toddlers and young children to the lovable cartoon, WordWorld. This educational show teaches early literacy concepts of letter recognition, letter sound relationships, rhyming, and other reading skills. Target has recently released a companion educational toy line for the show.
Words Come Alive
The concept behind Word World is that the characters' bodies are shaped in the form of letters that spell their name. The WordFriends get into many shenanigans and their problem can only be resolved by using letters to spell a certain word that will resolve the issue. The WordFriends spell the word letter by letter, sound by sound. Magically, the word comes alive into the shape of the needed object.
Toddlers will undoubtedly be captivated by the delightful characters, the interactive nature of the show, and the familiar music. Program creators state that the goal of the show is to "fascinate children with words and to inspire a love of words and reading." This educational cartoon should please parents who are concerned about the quality of television programming.
Series Toys, Books, and DVDs Available On-line and In Stores
The creators of WordWorld have partnered exclusively with Target Stores to release a companion toy line. The plush and educational toys were released in January of 2008. Plans for a book series of the WordWorld antics are in the works for release in Fall 2008. For families wishing to have access to DVDs, episodes should be available in early 2008.
Diverse Product Line - Puzzles, Games, Animals, and Activities
The new line of WordWorld toys offers a diverse selection from which to choose. The following is a brief description of a few of the toys from the line.
- Plush magnetic stuffed animals. The body is magnetic, allowing children to pull apart the word. Children can mix with letters from other animals to create new words.
- Puzzles. Several sound puzzles are available.
- Bucket sets. These sets are scenes and buildings around WordWorld. They come with letter blocks and some of the WordFriends. Some sets also come with a WordWorld DVD.
- Games. Children will have fun and learn from the various card games and board games.
- Stamps and stickers. Children with an artistic side will be able to access their creative talents.
Points to Consider
The toys are not all found in stores or on-line. Currently some are exclusive to the brick and mortar store, while others are specific to on-line shopping. The Target website does differentiate where the toys are available. However, some people may have initial difficulty locating a specific toy for their child.
Resources:
WordWorld. Parents and Teachers FAQ. Accessed 01/23/2008
Target. WordWorld Toys. Accessed 01/23/2008
