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Reviews: What's New This Week
Fun & Activities, Toys & Games, That's Entertainment
Here's a look at what's new in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
New in Theaters: Dear John
Featuring a wartime romance between a young college student and a soldier, "Dear John" is based on author Nicholas Sparks' best-selling novel of the same name. A weepy drama about honesty and love, the film has a positive message and, aside from some nongraphic love scenes and a few harsh words, no objectionable content. Rated PG-13, OK for kids 13+.
DVD: Zombieland
It is no surprise that "Zombieland" is chock full of bloody horror scenes in which characters are shot, bludgeoned, stabbed and separated from their limbs. But what might surprise is the fact that the violence is played for laughs and that it's actually quite funny. However, the abundance of gore, strong language and drug and sexual references make the film a no-go for kids. Rated R, Iffy for kids 16-18.
TV: Undercover Boss
A reality series in which CEOs go undercover as entry-level employees to see how their businesses are being run, "Undercover Boss" features such corporate giants including 7-11, White Castle and Hooters. As these big bosses spend a week in the trenches, they ostensibly learn how be more mindful and respectful of the little people who power their companies. Rated TV-PG, OK for kids 10+.
Reviews: What's New This Week
Fun & Activities, Toys & Games, That's Entertainment
Here's a look at what's new in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
New in Theaters: When in Rome
A romantic comedy with a supernatural twist, "When in Rome" tells the story of a work-obsessed woman who has magically drawn the attention of a bevy of romance-minded men. As she sorts through her possible suitors, there's a fair amount of sexual innuendo, creepy stalker-type behavior and objectionable language. Rated PG-13, Iffy for Kids 13-15
DVD: Michael Jackson's This is It
The late, great King of Pop prepares for the tour that never was in "Michael Jackson's This is It." This behind-the-scenes look at the mega star at work reveals a surprisingly kind and gentle perfectionist and is absent any evidence of his well-publicized problems. Other than the usual suggestive dancing and a few frightening images from "Thriller," the film is age-appropriate and wholly entertaining. Rated PG, OK for Kids 10+
TV: Caprica
A new show on the Syfy network, "Caprica" is a prequel to the television series "Battlestar Galactica." Delving into the world of the Cylons, the story centers around a distraught father as he tries to resurrect his murdered daughter by implanting her electronic essence into a warrior robot. While the language is clean and there's very little violence, the virtual-reality nightclub scenes feature glimpses of unsavory activities. Rated NR, OK for Kids 15+
New in Theaters: When in Rome
A romantic comedy with a supernatural twist, "When in Rome" tells the story of a work-obsessed woman who has magically drawn the attention of a bevy of romance-minded men. As she sorts through her possible suitors, there's a fair amount of sexual innuendo, creepy stalker-type behavior and objectionable language. Rated PG-13, Iffy for Kids 13-15
DVD: Michael Jackson's This is It
The late, great King of Pop prepares for the tour that never was in "Michael Jackson's This is It." This behind-the-scenes look at the mega star at work reveals a surprisingly kind and gentle perfectionist and is absent any evidence of his well-publicized problems. Other than the usual suggestive dancing and a few frightening images from "Thriller," the film is age-appropriate and wholly entertaining. Rated PG, OK for Kids 10+
TV: Caprica
A new show on the Syfy network, "Caprica" is a prequel to the television series "Battlestar Galactica." Delving into the world of the Cylons, the story centers around a distraught father as he tries to resurrect his murdered daughter by implanting her electronic essence into a warrior robot. While the language is clean and there's very little violence, the virtual-reality nightclub scenes feature glimpses of unsavory activities. Rated NR, OK for Kids 15+
Reviews: What's New This Week
Fun & Activities, Toys & Games, That's Entertainment
Here's a look at what's new in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
New in Theaters: Extraordinary Measures
In "Extraordinary Measures," a young couple teams up with ill-tempered research scientist to find a cure for the rare disease that is threatening the lives of their children. Despite the overall positive message of this medical drama, the cloud of impending death and sorrow that hangs over the film may be to heavy for young children. Rated PG, OK for Kids 14+
DVD: The Invention of Lying
In a world where deceit does not exist, a down-on-his-luck man inadvertently utters the very first lie in "The Invention of Lying." Though he often uses his new-found skill for good, he soon finds his life spinning out of control in the wake of his deceptions. The film features lots of alcohol consumption, crude language and a preoccupation with sex. Rated PG-13, Iffy for Kids 14-15
TV: The Pregnancy Pact
Inspired by the real-life pregnancy boom at a Massachusetts high school in 2008, "The Pregnancy Pact" addresses the issues surrounding teen pregnancy in America. While the school nurse lobbies for the distribution of contraceptives in school, a reporter delves into the reasons behind the sudden rise in teen pregnancies. Although the film is fiction, parents may find it a good jumping-off point for discussions about sex, pregnancy and parenthood. Not Rated, Iffy for Kids 14-16
New in Theaters: Extraordinary Measures
In "Extraordinary Measures," a young couple teams up with ill-tempered research scientist to find a cure for the rare disease that is threatening the lives of their children. Despite the overall positive message of this medical drama, the cloud of impending death and sorrow that hangs over the film may be to heavy for young children. Rated PG, OK for Kids 14+
DVD: The Invention of Lying
In a world where deceit does not exist, a down-on-his-luck man inadvertently utters the very first lie in "The Invention of Lying." Though he often uses his new-found skill for good, he soon finds his life spinning out of control in the wake of his deceptions. The film features lots of alcohol consumption, crude language and a preoccupation with sex. Rated PG-13, Iffy for Kids 14-15
TV: The Pregnancy Pact
Inspired by the real-life pregnancy boom at a Massachusetts high school in 2008, "The Pregnancy Pact" addresses the issues surrounding teen pregnancy in America. While the school nurse lobbies for the distribution of contraceptives in school, a reporter delves into the reasons behind the sudden rise in teen pregnancies. Although the film is fiction, parents may find it a good jumping-off point for discussions about sex, pregnancy and parenthood. Not Rated, Iffy for Kids 14-16
Reviews: What's New This Week
Fun & Activities, Toys & Games, That's Entertainment
Here's a look at what's new in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
New in Theaters: The Spy Next Door
Guns are drawn but no blood is spilled in "The Spy Next Door," an action-packed comedy starring Jackie Chan. With a convoluted plot involving a babysitting CIA operative, the jokes are mostly physical and the language is mild. Chan's impressive stunt work and the kids-as-heroes angle is probably enough to keep young grade schoolers interested. Rated PG, OK for Kids 8+
DVD: Fame
As you might expect, 2009's "Fame" is raunchier, edgier and sexier than the 1980 original. Featuring a diverse and talented cast, the film follows the lives of a group of ambitious teens chasing their dreams at the prestigious High School for the Performing Arts. The movie strives for realism by featuring lots of underage drinking, crude language and plenty of sexual situations. Rated PG, Iffy for Kids 12-14.
TV: Big Time Rush
After being discovered by a music executive, four teenage boys head to Hollywood to chase their dreams of stardom in "Big Time Rush." The kids are nice enough but have a tendency to use manipulation to get what they want from the clueless adults around them. Played for laughs, the friends learn to live their lives in the fast lane while staying true to their Midwest roots. Rated TV-G, OK for Kids 7+
Reviews: What's New This Week
Fun & Activities, Toys & Games, That's Entertainment
Here's a look at what's new in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
New in Theaters: Leap Year
A marriage-minded woman takes matters into her own hands when her boyfriend fails to propose in "Leap Year." Despite the presence of the adorable Amy Adams, Ireland's scenic beauty steals this otherwise bland show. However, with only a few mild swear words and no sex or nudity, it's a romantic comedy the entire family can enjoy together. Rated PG, OK for Kids 11+
DVD: Family Guy: Something, Something, Something Dark Side
The title gives a hint of what you can expect with "Family Guy: Something, Something, Something Dark Side." A silly and intentionally stupid parody of "The Empire Strikes Back," the DVD-only special feature is chock full of crude humor, rough language and offensive stereotypes. As with the television series itself, this extended Family Guy episode is not family-friendly. Rated NR, Iffy for Kids 14-16
TV: Peep and the Big Wide World
Using science to solve problems, "Peep and the Big Wide World" keeps the lessons simple enough to appeal to preschoolers. Narrated by Joan Cusak, each animated episode ends with a real-life segment featuring young kids repeating the experiment at home. Rated TV-Y, OK for Kids 3+
Reviews: What's New
Fun & Activities, Toys & Games, Gadgets & Tech, That's Entertainment, Music
Here's a look at what's new in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
New in Theaters: Sherlock Holmes
As much a buddy movie as a mystery, "Sherlock Holmes" follows the friendship of Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they fight crime in late 1800s London. Despite the abundance of slow-motion violence, the film is entertaining and fun and perfectly set up for a sequel. Rated PG, 13, OK for Kids 14+
DVD: Tinker Bell
First brought to life in "Peter Pan," everyone's favorite fairy gets her own movie in Disney's "Tinker Bell." Unhappy with her role as a Tinker Fairy, Tinker Bell tries to prove she's meant for bigger things. A tale about accepting and appreciating the talents you are born with, the film is as wholesome as they come. Rated G, OK for Kids 4+
TV: One Big Happy Family
A reality show on TLC, "One Big Happy Family" documents the struggles of an overweight family as they try to change their eating habits and their lives. Mom, dad and their two teens face their problems with humor, love and a willingness to accept responsibility for their issues. As real as a reality show gets, it's ultimately a portrait of a loving family. Rated TV-PG, OK for Kids 10+
Cabbage Patch Kids' New Birthing Center
Places To Go, In The News, Toys & Games, Shopping
First introduced as Little People in the late 1970s, Cabbage Patch Kids were the must-have toy in the early 1980s. With a marketing gimmick that involved adopting baby dolls that had been born in a cabbage patch, more than 65 million had been sold by 1990.
Reviews: What's New This Week
Fun & Activities, Toys & Games, That's Entertainment, Music
Here's a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
New in Theaters: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
Girl Chipmunk group The Chipettes join the cast in "Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel." Attending school for the first time, Alvin, Simon and Theodore enter the world of girls, bullies and peer pressure. Lots of physical humor, silly one-liners and the requisite happy ending make this film a good choice for families. Rated PG, OK for Kids 6+
DVD: (500) Days of Summer
A romantic dramedy, "(500) Days of Summer" attempts to unravel the mystery of why we fall in love. The complex characters don't fit neatly into stereotypical roles as they love, fight and navigate the terrain of an imperfect relationship. Strong language and mature themes make this inappropriate for young kids. Rated PG-13, OK for Kids 14+
TV: Nick News with Linda Ellerbee
A long-running news program for kids, "Nick News with Linda Ellerbee" presents current events in a kid-friendly format that includes open-minded discussions about the world in which we live. The topics can be heavy and at times upsetting, but Ellerbee's calm demeanor helps make sense of it all. Rated TV-Y, OK for Kids 11+
New in Theaters: Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
Girl Chipmunk group The Chipettes join the cast in "Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel." Attending school for the first time, Alvin, Simon and Theodore enter the world of girls, bullies and peer pressure. Lots of physical humor, silly one-liners and the requisite happy ending make this film a good choice for families. Rated PG, OK for Kids 6+
DVD: (500) Days of Summer
A romantic dramedy, "(500) Days of Summer" attempts to unravel the mystery of why we fall in love. The complex characters don't fit neatly into stereotypical roles as they love, fight and navigate the terrain of an imperfect relationship. Strong language and mature themes make this inappropriate for young kids. Rated PG-13, OK for Kids 14+
TV: Nick News with Linda Ellerbee
A long-running news program for kids, "Nick News with Linda Ellerbee" presents current events in a kid-friendly format that includes open-minded discussions about the world in which we live. The topics can be heavy and at times upsetting, but Ellerbee's calm demeanor helps make sense of it all. Rated TV-Y, OK for Kids 11+
Reviews: What's New This Week
Fun & Activities, Toys & Games, That's Entertainment, Music
Here's a look at what's new this week in family entertainment as adapted from reviews and ratings by Common Sense Media. Click on the links to read the reviews in full.
New in Theaters: Avatar
Intense and violent, James Cameron's "Avatar" is a visually stunning science fiction epic with a romantic side story. A message of peace and environmental responsibility pervades as a lone Marine tries to save the population of a distant world from a hostile military takeover. Strong language and scary scenes make the film inappropriate for young children. Rated PG-13, OK for Kids 13+
DVD: Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie
Just like the Disney series on which it is based, "Wizards of Waverly Place: The Movie" features a rebellious and back-talking teen stirring up trouble and then owning up to it. Despite their differences, the fictional wizard family is a close one and the film delivers a satisfying, feel-good ending. Not Rated, OK For Kids 7+
TV: The Sing-Off
Former boy band member Nick Lachey hosts "The Sing-Off," a reality contest featuring a capella groups competing for cash and a Sony recording contract. After all but three groups are eliminated by the celebrity judges, viewers take over the voting. Diverse contestants and great songs make the show entertaining and sometimes even inspirational. Rated TV-PG, OK for Kids 9+
The Goddard School: Encouraging Development In a Nurturing Environment
The Goddard School is a preschool franchise with locations in 37 states across America. The first Goddard School opened in 1986 in Malvern, Penn., as the Goddard Early Learning Center. Two years later, Anthony A. Martino formed Carousel Systems with the objective of franchising the Goddard Early Learning Center.
The first Goddard School within the franchise opened in 1990 in Marshallton, Penn., and today there are over 340 locations throughout the United States. Each Goddard School franchise is operated by an on-site owner and an educational director. Goddard Schools receive curriculum accreditation from the Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation.
Teachers at the Goddard School receive professional development through Goddard Systems University. Developed specifically for Goddard School teachers, the program keeps educators up to date on issues relating to child development trends and research as well as offering health and safety, developmental guidelines, curriculum and enrichment programs.
Based on an educational philosophy that emphasizes nurturing the whole child, the Goddard School focuses on emotional, social, intellectual and physical development as well as standard educational goals. The Goddard School offers programs for children aged six weeks to six years. In addition to the infant and preschool curriculum, many Goddard School locations offer programs for school-aged children during holidays and early-dismissal days at local elementary schools.
Read more about education at ParentDish.
The first Goddard School within the franchise opened in 1990 in Marshallton, Penn., and today there are over 340 locations throughout the United States. Each Goddard School franchise is operated by an on-site owner and an educational director. Goddard Schools receive curriculum accreditation from the Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation.
Teachers at the Goddard School receive professional development through Goddard Systems University. Developed specifically for Goddard School teachers, the program keeps educators up to date on issues relating to child development trends and research as well as offering health and safety, developmental guidelines, curriculum and enrichment programs.
Based on an educational philosophy that emphasizes nurturing the whole child, the Goddard School focuses on emotional, social, intellectual and physical development as well as standard educational goals. The Goddard School offers programs for children aged six weeks to six years. In addition to the infant and preschool curriculum, many Goddard School locations offer programs for school-aged children during holidays and early-dismissal days at local elementary schools.
Read more about education at ParentDish.




















