For those in the dark, Pandora is an internet radio service that plays music it thinks you will enjoy based on the artists and songs you tell it you like. Kids will also enjoy giving songs the thumbs up or thumbs down to help shape their personalized radio station. Ah, the power! It's a great way to try out new music for free (at least for 40 hours a month, after that there is a $.99 monthly charge or an option to subscribe for ad-free listening) and discover new music you might like when your current selection is getting a little (mind-numbingly) old. There's even an iPhone app for happy listening on the go.

You can create a new, personalized Pandora station for your child by entering their favorite tune or band to get started. Or if you're stumped like me, just try out one of the premixed stations listed under the children's genre. My 1-year-old and I had fun playing and singing along to "Toddler Radio" which had some familiar, clap-and-stomp-your-feet-type songs from the Wiggles, Disney, the Muppets and more. I recommend the "Kids Folk Music" or "Radio For Kids" stations as being a bit easier on the ears for adults in the room over longer periods of listening.

Here is a list of Pandora's premixed stations for kids along with the descriptions listed by the site. Happy Listening!

Toddler Radio — For kids 4 and under, this station is educational and fun! A variety of kid-friendly themes and music genres are explored.

Sleepy Time — Meant for kids 5 and under, this station is designed to prepare your tyke for a nap or bedtime. Mellow sounds and sweet lullabies.

Radio for Kids — Meant for kids 7 and under, this station is fun, educational, and not too baby-ish. Parents might even like it!

Rockin' Kids Radio — Meant for kids 7 and under. This is an energetic station good for dancing, room-cleaning and high-energy play.

Kids Folk Music — Quality folk music for kids 7 and under. A nice melodic, gentle station...

Tween Radio — Meant for ages 8 to adult. This station is appropriate for those too old for children's music but a bit too young for rock 'n' roll. It includes pop music like Miley Cyrus, The Jonas Brothers, and the High School Musical cast.

Check out Pandora's free online kids music at www.pandora.com.