Shake, rattle, and roll to kid-friendly tunes.

• Position: CDs - Albums for children

Giving the gift of music to children opens the floodgates for creativity:

The latest CD from award-winning children's performer Laurie Berkner showcases the artist's playful spirit with a collection of her greatest hits, "The Best of The Laurie Berkner Band" ($9.99). In addition to favorites such as "Boots" and "I Know a Chicken," the disc contains three bonustracks, including "Open Your Heart," written by the former preschool music teacher for the kids of the Pajama Program, which provides pajamas and books to children in need throughout the country, many of whom are entering foster care.

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Kids of all ages can shake, rattle, and roll to music by a group of established and up-and-coming artists in Putumayo Kids' "Rock & Roll Playground" ($14.98). Featuring Grammy Award winners Dan Zanes and Friends, Taj Mahal, and Bill Harley, the songs were recorded in recent ears, but were inspired by the evolution of the genre. Particularly interesting are the blues-infused cover of Steppenwolf's "Magic Carpet Ride" and the infectious Bo Diddley beat of "Willie and The Hand Jive." An illustrated booklet is included that details the history of rock 'n' roll and the story of each song.

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Music for Little People serves up a family dance party collection from the bayou in "Buckwheat Zydeco's Bayou Boogie." Featuring children's music superstars Laurie Berkner and Dan Zanes, the CD combines a rollicking mix of family-friendly rock tunes and original songs performed in Zydeco style. New spins on familiar treats...