"As a parent myself, the first thing I look for is award recognition," says Koch, an award-winning music educator who also writes for Chicago Parent. "Also, I make sure that the songs are age-appropriate. Look for artists who perform regularly for kids -- they know what works."

Several releases, winners of numerous national awards this year, make great family gift choices.

Babies

• Hunk-Ta-Bunk-Ta FUNsies1! -- Katherine Dines presents interactive songs for teachers and parents to do with children. CD booklet and guide offer hours of fun activities.

• A Playful Mind: Music for Infants -- Infant music composer Thomas Schoenberger creates mesmerizing instrumentals. The newest wave in baby music. TOP

Preschoolers

• Dreamland: World Lullabies and Soothing Songs -- Putumayo Kids presents a relaxing collection of music from around the world. Angelique Kidjo performs the first track.

• Not Naptime -- Justin Roberts writes silly songs like "Brontosaurus Got a Sweet Tooth" but also offers kids solace and inspiration for facing everyday issues.

• Daddy Raps--A father sings to his Daughter.  Delightful CD made for girls 4-8 that empowers as it entertains. TOP

Older Kids

• African Playground -- A range of African cultures and countries are included on this Putumayo Kids release featuring upbeat rhythms, appealing melodies and multilingual lyrics.

• Bon Appetit: Musical Food Fun -- Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer, 8-time Grammy Award nominees, dish up a tasty mix of tunes that inspire kids to try healthier lifestyles.

• El doble de amigos/Twice as Many Friends -- Sol y Canto's lively bilingual CD celebrates various Latin American musical traditions.

• Hear & Gone in 60 Seconds! -- When 29 of the best kids' artists create one-minute songs, it's a fast-moving ride through all sorts of musical styles.

• It's a Puzzle -- The zany duo Trout Fishing in America follow up a Grammy-nominated CD with this collection of witty tunes. Chuckle along to hits like "Alien in my Nose." TOP