Pardon my hyper cynical observation of "Elmo's World" but I could not help but laugh at the bewildered face of one toddler who is interviewed by Elmo. Their look of giddiness followed by sheer confusion at the talking hand puppet is hilarious. And will likely be their earliest memory. Though I still insist these DVD's are a bit exploitative of the concerned parent demographic worried their child won't grow up intelligent, "Elmo's World" is harmless. It's absolutely harmless and only serves as a way to teach its audience fundamental learning tools. These DVD's are targeted to people like my two year old nephew who is learning a lot thanks to these kinds of DVDs. These DVDs are sent to him as soon as I've finished and reviewed them, and there's often nothing but good results that come from watching these titles.

Mr. Noodles is an odd character and one that will encourage children to furrow their brows. And I'm still not sure how much you can expect from a toddler who can barely hold his head up let alone imitate a penguin. I know, I'm being disparaging, but "Elmo's World" really isn't that bad a show, especially when you account for the merciful run time, and gentle pacing that makes it worth watching without giving the children a head ache or confusion. Comprised of basic shapes and simple lessons, "Penguins and Friends" is a short and sweet lesson in our animal friends, and one that the kids will love. If you love Elmo. I don't. I miss Big Bird.

Confusing and sometimes surreal, "Elmo's World" really isn't all that bad a show for the toddlers and pre-schoolers providing firmly paced and well taught lessons about animals and penguins that will stick to the target audiences mind. And I'm basing that mainly on my two year old nephew's response to the lessons taught.