This Blue’s Clues DVD is a good way of introducing kids to the show, as well as a good DVD for fans of both Steve and Joe. It is good introduction to how Blue’s Clues works because in the episodes Steve’s, younger brother, Joe learns how the Blue’s Clues game works. This is also fun for preschoolers that already enjoy the show because they are encouraged to help in teaching Joe how to play. Lastly it appeals to both those that prefer Steve, prefer Joe, or like both equally, as the episodes mostly feature both of the hosts.

Throughout all the episodes of Blue’s Clues viewer involvement is encouraged. One of the main things taught is problem solving through helping Steve and Joe find Blue’s Clues and what the clues stand for. The episodes occasionally teach other basic concepts such as sequences and counting. The episodes also incorporate sign language for certain words, such as the sign for help being one of the most often used. This, however, is not always obvious unless you already know at least somewhat familiar with sign language.

The DVD has a total of four episodes as part of the play all (can also be selected individual from the Episode Selection Menu). The episodes were used to slowly introduce Joe and transition him into being the new host. The first episode is called “Joe’s First Day.” This episode is a classic Blue’s Clues episode with Steve being the host and playing Blue’s Clues to find out Blue’s guess about what Joe will bring for show and tell. As Steve looks for clues he (with the viewer’s apparent help) helps various friends in the house (including Blue and Slippery Soap) put their pictures back in order for their show and tell stories. Near the end of the episode Joe’s brother makes his first appearance.

The second episode is called “Joe Gets a Clue.” I recommend starting with this episode for kids unfamiliar with the show, as this is the show where Joe learns how the game Blue’s Clues works and thus kids can get used to the shows format easier by seeing this show first. This show features both Steve and Joe as main characters throughout the episode. They play Blue’s Clues to figure out what Blue wants to give to Joe. This episode includes a part where they skidoo (magically transport into a picture) and play hide and seek behind shapes, which interactively teaches about shapes.

The third episode is called “Steve Goes to College.” Now that Joe knows how to play Blue’s Clues he has been introduced enough to bring in the plot that has Steve leaving the show. This show is about Steve preparing to go to college and packing his stuff. The Blue’s Clues game for this episode is about what Blue thinks Steve needs to take with him. By the end of the episode Steve is off at college and Joe is now the one living with Blue and taking care of her and the other characters in the house. I think this was a very well done transition to the new host and gives a good fictional reason for Steve leaving. Plus it encourages the viewers to eventually go to college.

The final episode on this DVD is called “The Big Book About Us.” This episode has just Joe as the host and shows the starting of him as a new host with a new theme song. In this episode viewers learn more about Joe through the plot about Joe, Blue, and other household characters making a Big Book About Us. Each character has their own page featuring some of their favorite things. Joe plays Blue’s Clues to find out Blue’s idea for what should be on the cover of the book.

This DVD only has one main special feature, but it is a good one. The special feature is the 100th episode of Blue’s Clues. It is a very special episode of the show and features Steve coming back for a visit to celebrate. It, however, may disappoint some fans as it does not have the typical plot of looking for Blue’s Clues. Instead is it a show looking back at some of the best times in past episodes. This is done through short clips in the following categories: Places We’ve Been, Laughs We’ve Had, Things We’ve Learned, Clues We’ve Found, and Songs We’ve Sung. There is also a part near the end of the episode with kids sharing about their favorite Blue’s Clues moments.

The other special feature is the Parent's Guide, which tells about the show and its learning goals. It also tells about an extended activity of having kids make their own Big Book About Me based on what Joe and the gang does in the fourth episode.

Recommended:
Yes

Viewing Format: DVD
Suitability For Children: Suitable for Children up to Age 4