Kids hear more than enough four-letter words and dumbed down "adult" lyrics through car radios and in stores; they don't need more of it on their own time. These made-for-children CDs are smart, appropriate, fun and entertaining.

"I Believe in Little Things" from Diana Panton; Little Things; $16.

Oozing elegance and swinging soul, Canadian jazz vocalist Diana Panton's newest release is a magical and divine treat for the ears. A carefully curated anthology of Disney, "Sesame Street" and even "Willy Wonka" gems, the timeless CD combines gorgeous acoustic bass, vibraphone, cello, piano and jazz guitar. But Panton's sweet, clear voice stands out in an incredibly exquisite manner, ensuring listeners forget their worries and savor the little things.

Songs include the Muppets' "The Rainbow Connection," "Hushabye Mountain" from "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang," Disney's "When You Wish Upon a Star" and 11 other classic gems.

"Are You Listening?" by the Not-Its! Little Loopy Records.

From Seattle's independent rock scene, The Not-Its! provide rollicking, punk-influenced rhythms — but with G-rated lyrics. Known for their athletic, energetic stage presences, the band delivers a bevy of songs with plenty of smart, fresh heft and humor. Inspired by daily family life, the hard-driving songs include "Done With the Science Fair," "Traffic Jam," "Granddad is a Spy" and "Brain Freeze," all witty and with tongue-in-cheek zest.

Fronted by strong female vocalist Sarah Shannon, The Not-Its! definitely rock and roll.

"Every Day's Your Birthday" from Miss Nina & the Jumping Jacks; Pacaroonus Publishing; $12.

With musical roots originating with the '60s and '70s sounds of the Brady Bunch to the Beatles to Led Zeppelin, then through the '80s with tunes and rap, Miss Nina combines high-energy dance music with some practical advice. The album covers a wide spectrum of genres, including old-timey ukulele music, pop rock, laid-back jazz and down-home country. "Every Day's Your Birthday" hits all the right notes.

Nina Stone's clear, strong voice is perfectly delightful, and her 12 unique, varied songs will put smiles on the faces of preschoolers everywhere.

"Wake Up and Sing" by Red Yarn; Red Yarn Productions.

Portland's acclaimed family folk singer (and puppeteer) Andy Furgeson is Red Yarn. His new CD aims to drive home the energy of his live shows, and does so swimmingly, with a zippy folk rock sound that's infectious and homey. "Wake Up and Sing" pays tribute to fun folk classics by Pete Seeger, Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan. Furgeson's wife, Jessie Eller-Isaacs, accompanies his rootsy vocals in songs rich with driving guitar and banjo. Furgeson's wife, Jessie Eller-Isaacs, accompanies him, as the two croon songs featuring driving guitar and banjo, bass and fiddle. And keep an ear out for some iconic guest appearances! "Wake Up and Sing" is chock-full of whimsy, wisdom and a ton of fun.

"Saddle Up: A Western Adventure Album" from Okee Dokee Brothers; Okee Dokee Music.

The Grammy Award-winning duo The Okee Dokee Brothers — Joe Mailander and Justin Lansing — deliver their third album in an adventure-themed series. Celebrating the outdoors with inspiring and thoughtful lyrics, the folk band features a diverse collection of musicians with styles ranging from cowboy to Mexicali to bluegrass, with Western stories inspired by exploration.

The album is accompanied by a DVD documentary and book, cover tales of western wildlife, Navajo stories, Spanglish and the issue of guns in western lore. A heartwarming and adventurous celebration of exploration and the Southwest, "Saddle Up" is a treat.

To find out more about Lee Littlewood, and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.

Photo credit: Dushan Hanuska