Spring is the time when we gardeners clean out the old to make way for the new. We pluck out the crisp brown leaves that escaped last fall's rake and pull up the tangle of dried stalks and stems ... only to discover (tiny gasp!) the green tips of daffodil, crocus, and iris leaves beginning their journey upward to blue skies and sunshine. We watch in wonder as our gardens open up to receive new gifts.

Families are a lot like gardens. They need tending and raking out from time to time. Spring is a great time to take a fresh look at not only our homes, but the routines our families follow.

Here are some spring-cleaning tips to help you declutter your family's life - and instigate and model changes that can pave a path for you and your child to discover clarity and new adventures. As you'll discover, the potential that lies beneath the clutter is bountiful!

• Clean out a closet together — open space for... you'll see!
• Donate old toys and clothing to those in need.
• Cut down screen time and replace it with family game night.
• Review your weekend schedule — delete something to make room for new family adventures.
• Go to City Island for seafood and a walkabout.
• Visit a nearby farm or make the farmer’s market part of your weekly rhythm.
• Explore Central Park — there’s always something new to discover.
• Visit a museum, like the American Museum of Natural History or the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.
• Spend a day at Coney Island or the Bronx Zoo.
• Clean out the pantry and cook a “shop-from-home” meal with what you find.
• Run, walk, dance, sing, join, watch, and become... whatever inspires your family to move and connect!