Whimsical world of fun awaits

Ralph’s World -- Say Hello

Mini Fresh; DVD: $19.99

VHS: $14.99

Ages 2 to 8

www.minifresh.com

Ralph Covert, the Chicago-based former rocker whose terrific “Ralph’s World” albums have made him a children’s music superstar, brings his trademark whimsical, play-along fun to his first DVD release. Using original, colorful puppetry and sets, Covert and several kids offer an irresistible invitation to viewers to bop along to such songs as “Surfin’ in My Imagination,” “At the Bottom of the Sea” and “Clean-Up.” (Covert is giving a free concert at 2 p.m. Oct. 11 at Storyopolis in L.A.)

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Barbie of Swan Lake

Artisan’s Family Home Entertainment, DVD and VHS: $19.98

Ages 4 to 12

The Barbie-centric fairy tale series continues with another lavishly detailed computer-animated feature whose creativity and sweet nature nearly mitigates its unavoidable product promotion. Starlit skies, an enchanted forest, a magic crystal, fancy gowns, graceful ballet sequences, Tchaikovsky’s gorgeous themes, a terrific villain (voiced by Kelsey Grammer) and a moment of selfless love all lead to a happily-ever-after ending for romantic Barbie-Odette and her handsome prince.

Nifty DVD extras include a well-made documentary with young Juillard musicians.

-- Lynne Heffley