Kids' network launches online hunt for host

NEW YORK (AP) -- If you want to speak to thousands of preschoolers in the morning without worrying about fixing breakfast or calming tantrums, the Sprout TV network is offering an opportunity.

The cable network that tries to reach young children launched an online search Tuesday for someone to help host "The Sunny Side Up Show," its three-hour morning show. Aspiring TV hosts are asked to submit a 60-second audition video and send it to Sprout's website, and the network will post some of the best on its YouTube channel.

Three finalists will be chosen to audition with Chica, its chicken character, in front of show producers in September in Philadelphia, Sprout said. Sprout, which is aimed at youngsters aged 2 to 5, is in about half of the nation's homes with televisions.

One requirement: Prospective hosts will have to sing Sprout's "Happy Birthday Song" as part of their audition.

"Our hosts tend to be very vibrant, very engaging," said Sandy Wax, network president.

The show, which mixes skits along with pre-recorded portions of favorites like "Barney & Friends," has four hosts: Carly Ciarrocchi, Dennisha Pratt, Kelly Vrooman and Sean Roach. The new host will replace Vrooman, who is leaving.