Birds are chirping. The green grass is sprouting. And the sun is starting to shine. All signs that spring has arrived. Old man winter has finally decided to part ways, and you couldn't be happier for it! Especially your kids, who've been cooped up indoors like hibernating cubs all winter, and can't wait to get outdoors. Luckily, there are many springtime activities that you and your children can take part in together. Whatever your preferences are, be it spring crafts, nature walks, or bird watching, there are many fun ways you and your kids can spot and enjoy the signs of spring together.

Kick up the kickstand

A great way to enjoy the new season is to start things off with a bike ride. You can to take in some fresh spring air and enjoy the new warm weather. Get the bikes out of storage and make sure to air up all the tires. Check your helmets to ensure that they are still the right fit, and you're all ready to roll. Choose scenic bike paths or parks that will allow you and your kids to enjoy the blooming flowers and trees.

Take a hike

Another great way to get out and spot the signs of the new season is to take a nature hike. It will allow you to enjoy the fresh spring weather and also give you and your kids a great chance to seek out all the budding spring flowers, birds, and butterflies. It's nature's form of Show and Tell. Prepare yourselves for the hike by getting a simple nature guidebook to help you identify all that you see.

Animals and crackers

With the arrival of spring weather, what better activity is there than a picnic and a trip to the zoo? Most zoos either reopen or return to full capacity come spring. The animals will be rejuvenated and ready for spring and your children will be excited to see them. Take further advantage of both the weather and the trip by planning a mini-picnic. Most zoos offer picnic table areas, but if your zoo doesn't, a nearby park will do just as well. Keep the kids even more interested and engaged by having animal crackers as a snack. That way they can continue to talk about the animals they just saw or are about to see!

Stop, drop, and grow

A longstanding springtime classic, planting a garden is yet another great way for you and your kids to enjoy the season. It gives them a chance to be outdoors, but also serves as a teamwork and responsibility exercise. Pick easy-to-grow plants. That way you can enjoy the fruits of your labor without too much effort. Annuals are a great choice; they're readily available and very easy to grow. Have each of your kids pick a color or plant and patch of garden. Tomatoes are another great option. They're also readily available and do not require much work, plus they're healthy and yummy! Your kids will enjoy the time they spend with you outside in the garden, watering their plants and ultimately reaping the fruits of their labor-especially when the tomatoes are ripe and ready to eat.

Once all the garden work is done and its time to get those dirt stains out, try using 2X Ultra Tide® with Clean Breeze scent. It'll give your clothes a fresh, clean feel and aroma.

So go on, get out there with your family and start enjoying the spring together!