For the first time, there is a DS games based on the popular kids show Ni Hao Kai-lan. Based on Nickelodeon’s educational entertainment television series for preschoolers and designed for the youngest of gamers, Ni Hao, Kai-lan: New Year’s Celebration is a collection of easy-to-play mini-games featuring six-year-old Kai-lan and her young animal friends, Rintoo the tiger, Tolee the koala, Hoho the monkey, and Grandpa YeYe.

The games, developed by 2KPlay, (given to us to try) involove gentle and engaging activities such as cooking Chinese dumpling, making almond cookies, and marching in parades. This game is designed with young gamers in mind, (3-5 years old), so it’s relatively easy for them to play independently. I only had to show my 4 year old once before he got the gist of the steps. In addition, the game also provides encouraging hints whenever help is needed. My 4 year old was so happy there is a game for him on the DS. He has already asked for one for himself!

While this game is designed for preschoolers, my 7 year old also enjoyed playing the game. It also provided him something common to share with his little brother. It was cute to watch the two of them huddled over the screen while coloring, and clicking through the shapes. According to them, their favorite activity was cooking dumplings as they both love to eat dumplings!

Many of you know I fly often with my boys to visit  families in California. I’m so looking forward to bringing this game with us on our next trip. Anything to contain 3 boys on a 6 hour flight is a lifesaver in my opinion! Oh yeah, it offers some Chinese culture  and words they can buff up with before seeing my parents!

Ni Hao Kai-lan: New Year’s Celebraion game is available at retailers nationwide including Toys R Us and Target.