A couple of weeks ago, we received a new DVD to add to the Madhouse Mini-testers' collection : Learn to Read with the Alphablocks - Phonics First Steps. If you have a pre-schooler or little learner, you probably already know about the Alphablocks because they have their own series on CBeebies.
If they have totally passed you by, the Alphablocks are 26 living letters who fall out of the sky and discover that if they hold hands and make a word, it magically comes to life. The focus is very much on learning, but young viewers will be having so much fun watching the stories, singing the songs and trying to work out the words that they won't even think about the fact that it's educational.
This first DVD, Phonics First Steps, introduces the first letters and sounds that children are taught at school and starts them off making simple words. The creators promise that, with repeat viewing, children can build key phonics skills and boost their reading confidence, all while having lots of fun. Having watched the younger Madhouse Mini-testers totally absorbed by the DVD and excitedly spelling out the words, I'd say that I'm convinced by its educational vlaue, as well as it's appeal as entertainment. I also love the fact that they really enjoy "playing Alphablocks" with the Junior Scrabble letters too - Juliette spells out a word and I have to draw it !
The DVD has a total runtime of 60 minutes and is divided into 18 short 3-minute episodes. It also comes with a parents' guide and an Alphablocks alphabet poster, to reinforce the learning message. I was also impressed to see that the series follows the school curriculum.
I love DVDs that mix learning with fun and Alphablocks appears to have found the perfect balance to appeal to both children and parents.
star rating : 5/5
- Studio: Abbey Home Media Group
- DVD Release Date: 25 Feb 2013
- Run Time: 60 minutes
RRP : £9.50
Disclosure : We received a copy of the DVD in order to write an honest review.
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We have this and I think its great!
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