5 last-minute DVD gift ideas for kids

As you may have guessed by now, I grew up as a movie and television junkie. From the time I can remember making a Christmas list for Santa, it would be overflowing with movies I wanted. So I couldn't help but put together a mini list of five "great-find" DVDs that have come out in time for Santa to bring home to your little ones.

1. Kung Fu Panda 2 + Secrets of Masters double pack
There's nothing I like more than a double pack, two movies for one— does it get any better? In these two kid flicks, Jack Black is back in action as Po, the butt-kicking Panda. Entertaining? Yes. There's plenty of edge-of-your-seat viewing for the kids and witty, comical dialogue for the parents, courtesy of Mr. Black and Seth Rogen.
Available: December 13
Suggested age: 8 years+

2. Dinosaur Train - T.rex Tales
Are your little ones a fan of the PBS series Dinosaur Train? It's high up on the list of favourites for my three-year-old niece, Monkey. This DVD is chock-full of Dino Train adventures with Buddy, the T. Rex who's being raised by a family of Pteranodons. And there's a special holiday bonus episode included, called "Don's Winter Wish."
Available: now
Suggested age: 3 years+

3. Prep & Landing
I just recently discovered the Disney film Prep & Landing, which is about an elite elf unit from Santa's workshop. With a veteran elf voiced by Canadian comedian Dave Foley (Kids in the Hall, News Radio) this movie will definitely be enjoyed by the whole family and surely be loved by the kids at Christmas time.
Available: now
Suggested age: 5 years+

4. Thomas & Friends: Adventure on the Tracks
I've yet to meet a single one-, two-, or even three-year-old who isn't "into" that famous blue, shiny train engine named Thomas. If you're looking for something for the ultimate Thomas fan in your house, this six-pack of DVDs — which features many of those cheeky steamies and even the Diesels — would be your best bet in my opinion.
Available: now
Suggested age: 1 years+

5. Care Bears: Super Cuddly Collection
The Care Bears were definitely a childhood favourite of mine. And even though the modernized version has them looking like alien bears, I can't wait to introduce my niece, Moneky, to Share Bear, Grumpy and the rest of the gang over the holidays. This collection includes a full-length movie, along with five other jam-packed discs—and is bound to keep any little fan of "Cares-a-lot" entertained for hours.
Available: now
Suggested age: 2 years+