Recorded especially for children: take a safari through slumber land with these calming songs from across the continent. 11 tracks, USA. PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC.

A selection of lullabies from South Africa, Congo, Cameroon, Gambia, Uganda, Zimabawe, Madagascar, Nigeria, Cape Verde, Ethiopia and Sierra Leone. 17 tracks, 62:18 mins, GERMANY. Q RIOUS MUSIC.

Love songs for children. Commencing with the Zulu harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo, "Thula Mtwana" sets the tone, creating an atmosphere of warmth, safety, and peace, and is followed by a baker's dozen that reflect the gentle rhythms of an abundantly diverse continent. "Kounandu Deni" marries the dancing melody of Malian guitar and African harp with lyrics of paternal providence. Broadway's Sarafina! and The Lion King cast member Ntomb'khona Dlamini wails soulfully on "Thula Thula," and "Chitsidzo" is a mystical reverie of parental love and spousal longing accompanied by the intense beauty of a mbira (thumb piano). 14 tracks, 51:38 mins, GERMANY

A teacher's book of East African folk songs for children. The songs are transcribed into their original languages which include Lango, Japadhola, Acholi, Runyankole, Lugbara, Madi, Iteso and Lugwere amongst others. Each song is placed in context of a lesson plan which is in English. Includes musical notation and Illustrated with b/w drawings. 185pp. FOUNTAIN PUBLISHERS.

The pulsating rhythms and joyous melodies of African music make it particularly appealing to children. This anthology brings together songs from across the continent with emphasis on play and dance. All songs are sung in their original languages and the 27 page booklet provides a brief description of the country and its music. Text in English, French, Spanish, and German. 13 tracks, 43:35 mins, USA. PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC,

A celebration of Caribbean music and culture. Includes notes and song meanings in English, Spanish and French. 12 tracks, 40:56 mins, USA. PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC.

A compilation of calming songs and lullabies from around the world. Perfect for bedtime, meditation, yoga and relaxation. Includes a booklet in Spanish, English, French and German. 13 tracks, 40:39 mins, USA. PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC,

Intended to teach children a variety of dances, two-page chapters cover different types of dances, costuming and body painting, musical instruments and performance. Each dance has a painting depicting a troupe of American youngsters learning about that particular aspect of dance and preparing for a performance, along with a few short, rhythmic sentences. Includes an overview of the origins of African dance traditions and a pronunciation guide. 32pp, AGES 4-8, USA. LEE & LOW BOOKS.

Features some of the best-known artists from across the continent, with tracks chosen by children, for children. World Music Network, with the help of the music charity Music For Change, spoke to more than a thousand children, who selected their favourite African music tracks. Presenting the rich acoustic kora (African harp) and balafon (African xylophone) sounds of Guinean superstar Mory Kanté, the driving Afro-beat of Tony Allen and the Maasai rap of Tanzanias X Plastaz, this album showcases some of the best foot-stomping and hair-raising African music around. Artists include Issa Bagayogo, Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca, Mory Kanté, Tony Allen & Tweak, Alèmayèhu Eshèté & Shèbèlés Band, Kakai Kilonzo, X Plastaz, Real Sounds, JJC & 419 Squad feat. Cherise, Mahotella Queens, Mabulu and Ladysmith Black Mambazo. 12 tracks, 62:49 mins., UK. ROUGH GUIDES.

Folk and Blues classics for children and their families to sing along to. Includes notes and lyrics. 12 tracks, 39:11 mins, USA. PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC.

An inspiring musical journey around the world for children and their families. Includes songs from Greece, Canada, Bolivia, Senegal, Ethiopia and France. 12 tracks, 40:32 mins, USA. PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC.

The companion to World Playground. Volume 2 features more fun world music for children and their families. Includes music from Mexico, India, Algeria, Spain and South Africa. 10 tracks, 37:43 mins, USA. PUTUMAYO WORLD MUSIC.

2001 Compact Disc