Barneys Rhyme Time Rhythm (VHS, 2000) and 50 similar items

The video is an effective introduction to Mother Goose rhymes, songs, and stories (which, mercifully, are not rewritten in typical Barney fashion). As in most Barney fare, there's an emphasis on cheerfulness, creativeness, friendship, and affection. It's nice that the basic premise encourages children to read and write--especially their own rhymes. The many songs include "Did You Ever See a Lassie?" as well as "London Bridge," "Humpty Dumpty," "Baa Baa Black Sheep," "Little Boy Blue," "Little Bo Peep," "The House That Jack Built," "Little Miss Muffet," "Three Little Kittens," "The Old Lady in the Shoe," and "Old King Cole." (Ages 2 and older)