Here's our weekly showcase of the latest and greatest new selections in media for youth.

From books and games to educational toys and DVDs, there's never a dull moment for active and eager young minds.

This week, both Barney and Thomas the Tank Engine are the center of attention in two new DVD movies and a new book introduces early readers to the friendship bond between a boy and his dog.

DVDs

Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment, $19.98, Ages 2 to 5

"Thomas & Friends Railway Friends"

In Thomas' first CGI-animated movie, there are new destinations and adventures so hop onboard and enjoy. Young viewers have the chance to hear and see Thomas and friends Percy, James, Gordon and all the other engines as never before. And also new, are the voices of all the individual characters, which previously have never been heard, in favor of voice-over narration. There are also three new characters making their debut in this 60-minute movie, which includes bonus game features. It's available now in stores or at thomasandfriends.com.

Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment, $16.98, Ages 2 to 5

"Barney: Jungle Friends"

The rain forests of the world hold the secret to many mysteries, some which have yet to even be discovered. This new 50-minute movie and accompanying CD invites viewers to both look and listen as they help unlock the secrets of the jungle. With safari hat in hand, Barney, BJ and Baby Bop laugh, dance and explore the lush layers of the rain forests while meeting new animal friends and amazing plant and insect life. And while collecting butterflies along the way, they search for the legendary Higgledy Piggledy Bear Tree. It also includes special features like puppet activities and games. It's available in stores or at barney.com.

Genuine Prints LLC, $16.95, Ages 3 to 8

"Nico & Lola: Kindness Shared Between a Boy and a Dog," by Meggan Hill

Nico is a little boy who learns the importance of being kind to pets, while taking care of the family dog Lola. There are tender messages and beautiful photography in this 36-page hardcover book by Susan M. Graunke. The importance of caring for pets, from walking and exercise to food and water, is explained using simple text and large vivid images. The author and photographer explain the importance of the book by using their own lives as examples with the shared life lesson: "Caring for creatures while growing up helped shape who we became later in life." The book is available in stores or at nicoandlola.com.

The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer. He can be reached at philip.potempa@nwi.com or 219.852.4327.