Nick to spend $30 million on kids. (Nickelodean network to revamp daytime programming)

Cable network revamps its Nick Jr. lineup, including Henson Productions project

Run for cover, Big Bird. You're about to get slimed.

Faced with growing competition in the preschool category from the Public Broadcasting Service. The Discovery Channel and others, cable network Nickelodeon is embarking on a $30 million revamp of its 9 a.m.-2 p.m. "Nic Jr." daytime lineup.

As part of the revamp, Nickelodeon will work with Jim Henson Productions to develop 40 two-minute vignettes featuring original characters with spin-off series potential.

Nickelodeon has seen its ratings soar among 6-to-11-year-olds with offbeat cartoons like Ren & Stimpy …