The Magic Bowl

PreS—The objective of this animated musical extravaganza is to motivate children to make the move from diapers directly to using the toilet. An opening song introduces Jennifer, Cindy, and Sammy Joe, three super-cool kids from Crabapple Row. The singer is an anthropomorphic toilet, featuring eyes and mouth atop the tank with arms that sometimes reach around and embrace the children, an unusual choice that some children might find discomforting. The ypungsters are encouraged in different ways to give up diapers and to begin using the toilet. Jennifer is motivated by pretty panties and a medal. Sammy's father cuts his zoo visit short because Sammy has wet himself and his father hasn't packed diapers. This, coupled with seeing men using the urinal in the zoo restroom, encourages Sammy to learn to use the toilet. In the most unrealistic scenario, Cindy doesn't like the bunchy silhouette diapers give her when she tries on a number of outfits. Each scene is accompanied by a song performed by a host of bathroom aides. This often bizarre video is filled with dramatic songs that may appeal to some children, although it is unlikely that it will achieve its mission of motivating toddlers to use the toilet.—Constance Dickerson, Cleveland Heights-University Heights Public Library, OH