This is a home-brew video--no question of that. But despite fairly rough video work from low resolution consumer grade cameras and some sound problems from less than optimum mikes, it's a program worth buying. Robert Alcorn shows two average boys (Jamal and Napoleon) how to deal with some of the basics of being responsible for oneself. The program covers changing bed linen, washing and drying sheets, sewing a button, basic cleanliness, setting a table, doing dishes, and the importance of doing homework. The demonstrations are clear, and proper attitude is emphasized. After mopping the floor and dumping the soapy water down the toilet, the narrator reminds the boys to lower the toilet seat, because the next visitor might not be a male. It would have been nice to see a couple of thousand dollars more put into production, but don't let that stop you from picking up a copy. My 7-year-old co-reviewer said, let's keep this one. While he doesn't always like to do the things depicted, I think he found knowing how empowering. Recommended. Aud: P. (E. Swanson)
Basic Training for Boys
(1995) 30 min. $9.95. Diaspora Entertainment. PPR. Color cover. Vol. 11, Issue 3
Basic Training for Boys
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