Reshaping Bad Habits

of spots between programs, has grown into a monthly show challenging teens to drop weight and adopt healthier lifestyles. (A new episode airs Sunday at 8:30 p.m.)

"Challenge" was launched when Nick "began to pick up through our research and interaction with kids that the rite of childhood play was being whittled away," said Jean Margaret Smith, Nickelodeon's senior vice president for public affairs. "Kids were engaged in a sedentary lifestyle . . . because of modern life."

Some may find it ironic that television -- which millions of children watch on a daily basis when they could otherwise be outside playing -- is addressing the issue. But some of TV's more popular children's shows, such as Nickelodeon's "LazyTown" and Disney Channel's "JoJo's Circus," have featured physical fitness themes. Even Cookie Monster on PBS's "Sesame Street" has substituted carrots for cookies.

As a father of six, O'Neal said he's no monster when it comes to monitoring his own kids' physical fitness. His children are "active," he said, but "I'm going to let a kid be a kid. They're going to eat the candy and the hot dogs. They just have to eat in moderation."

SHAQ'S BIG CHALLENGE

Tuesdays 9 p.m., ABC

SHAQ'S ROSTER

The six children challenged to change their ways

Walter (age 14, 285 pounds) loves his video games almost as much as his "pizza burritos."

Kit (age 14, 263 pounds) is pampered by her protective parents and blames Mom for her weight.

Kevin (age 13, 230 pounds) is sick of being teased at school and wants to lose weight to make Dad proud.

Ariel (age 14, 211 pounds) first developed a weight problem after her parents split up.

James (age 11, 182 pounds) says his favorite meal is a "fryburger" -- a hamburger topped with French fries.

Chris (age 11, 206 pounds) can't get enough of his mom's cooking, served up in abundance.