Barney's Beach Party

Newly crowned Yoplait "Yumsters" mascot Barney hits the beach in this new addition to the violet dinosaur's extensive library of escapades. Rain showers have kept the gang from venturing outdoors for days, but a little help from Barney (coupled with strong imaginations) transports everyone to a sun-drenched, sandy seashore with plenty of delightful diversions. After slathering on sunscreen, the group (clad in coordinated, summer attire) is joined by friends B.J., Baby Bop, and Mr. Boyd, who works at the seaside store. Songs such as "Mister Sun," "Icy Creamy Ice Cream," "If I Lived Under The Sea," and "Imagine A Place" are supplemented with activities that include kite-flying, shell-hunting, windsurfing, sailing, and making sand castles. Although the song lyrics are sometimes weak ("A Silly Hat" features the line "I wear it on my head because that's where it's at"), Barney's Beach Party does manage to squeeze in sensible lessons about sun safety, sharing, and water sport precautions. Recommended. Aud: P. (J. Williams)