Life & Family | Toys

It’s that time of year when the kids are all sledded out and an impending snowstorm has inevitably lost its allure. If the weather outside is frightful, then pop some popcorn, fire up the DVD player and hunker down with the family. Here are some of the latest small fry flicks coming to a small screen near you.

Thomas & Friends: Splish Splash Splosh

Everyone’s favorite little blue engine is at it again, but this time, he’s all wet. Thomas & Friends: Splish Splash Splosh features four new episodes that take Thomas and viewers from sudsy spills to snowy situations, showing them they can always have fun—whatever the weather. Extras include two interactive games: Lift and Load Crane and Counting with Thomas. $14.98; http://www.thomasandfriends.com.

March On! How My Brother Martin Changed the World

“I Have a Dream” is a phrase that students have undoubtedly heard in the classroom. March On! How My Brother Martin Changed the World is a wonderful teaching tool that tells the story behind the legendary man as told by his sister, Dr. Christine King Ferris. This animated release includes other moving stories that celebrate Black History Month, such as “Rosa” and “Henry’s Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad.” $14.95; http://www.newkideo.com.

Meet the Instruments

Music lovers in the making will relish two new releases from the Meet the Instruments series. Grammy award-winning performers Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer introduce young viewers to a menagerie of eclectic instruments, from banjos and mandolins, to the steel drum and ukulele. Their energy is so infectious, it won’t be long before kids are clapping and stomping along. $15 each; http://www.cathymarcy.com.