This is a highly subjective, non-comprehensive list of my favorite kids stuff of the year. I tend to prefer things that are fun, playful, and not dumbed-down too much for kids. It is also important to teach a positive message without being too heavy-handed about it. This list is 99% "Dad Choice" and 1% "Pediatrician."
Music
Favorite New Album: Mommy Says No! by Asylum Street Spankers
This is an eclectic Austin-based band with their first children's album. I prize kids music that does not drive adults crazy, and this fits the bill.
Favorite Song: “18 Wheels on a Big Rig” by Trout Fishing in America, from the album Mine!
Funniest counting song ever. This was released in 1994, but we first heard in 2007, so that's why it's on the list.
Hall of Fame Album: Not For Kids Only by David Grisman and Jerry Garcia
Yep, the same Jerry Garcia from the Grateful Dead. These are beautiful, traditional songs in a folk and bluegrass style.
Books
Author: Mo Willems
I was planning to list a favorite book, but you just can’t go wrong with anything by Mo Willems. We were hooked from the start with Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! Since then, Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late!, Leonardo the Terrible Monster, and Elephant and Piggie: Today I Will Fly! have become regular favorites in the book rotation.
Toys
Favorite Toy: Stomp Rocket When was the last time a $15 toy actually did what it was supposed to do, kept your kid's attention for months, and got them outside being active? This toy claims to teach your kids the physics of trajectory, force, and motion, but I just think it teaches them that rockets are awesome. Order online, or find it at Learning Express in Snider Plaza.
TV Show
Yo Gabba Gabba!
For the majority of the year, The Backyardigans were the clear favorite. Recently, however, we have discovered Yo Gabba Gabba! The music is great, and Biz Markie teaching your kid how to beat-box increases the Cool Quotient considerably. This is a very sweet show that teaches developmentally appropriate messages in a gentle and fun way.
(Pediatrician Disclaimer: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends no TV before age 2, and then no more than 2 hours per day of supervised, well-chosen programming.)