Sprout's Wiggly Waffle (Sprout)

SPROUT’S WIGGLY WAFFLE is a three-hour programming block designed to get preschoolers excited about the start of a new day. The show stars The Wiggles, who hang out in and around an oversized waffle with squares that open to reveal visitors -- as well as abbreviate episodes of preschooler favorites like Bob the Builder and Play with Me Sesame. The colorfully clad singers also perform original songs, and interactive segments allow kids to submit their own photos and videos for use in skits.

Though it’s true that entertainment-a-la-Wiggles isn’t every parent’s cup of tea, there’s no denying that the Aussie foursome know what they’re doing when it comes to kids. In this case, the Wiggles’ catchy tunes, silly skits, and preschool-friendly games like "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes" do more than capture kids’ attention -- they teach young viewers about the importance of healthy habits like eating well and exercising and encourage them to jump up and work out their own wiggles.

Although the Wiggly Waffle block is technically three hours long, all of the transitions between segments and program episodes offer plenty of opportunity to turn off the TV without too much protest. Ultimately, the only thing parents might find iffy is how often the show promotes its Web site, which is where kids can submit photos and videos for use on the show.