The weather is warming up here in Bridgewater, and that can mean only one thing: spring is finally on the way.

My family loves spring. Particularly my kids. Particularly in light of April vacation.

If you’re not from around here, “April vacation” is how we refer to spring break. It’s a week of fun for the kids—and a week of *cough* horrors *cough* for parents.

Nah, I’m just kidding. Bridgewater is one of the best places to spend April vacation since there are plenty of sights to see and things to do. There’s no reason to stay locked up inside while your children discover where you stashed the cookies and tear through your house on a sugar high. Get them outdoors! Or at least *indoors in a different location.*

One of my favorite places to bring my kids when they’re on a school break is Nova Trampoline Park in Plymouth (about 30 minutes away). Besides trampolines, they also have a foam pit, a zip line, a rope course, a rock wall, and more. Whatever it takes to burn off some of that excess energy, you know?

If your kids are into animals, I highly recommend Sunday Funday at Pony Town Parties in East Bridgewater. They offer unlimited pony rides, a petting zoo, face painting, and yummy food. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon.

For older kids, Crazy Axes in Hanover (also about 30 minutes away) is another good option. It’s the first axe-throwing venue on the South Shore, and the instructors are excellent. (Which is important since we’re trying to lose energy here, not eyeballs.)

Not really into sharp objects? I hear you. If craft projects are more your/your kids’ speed, give Just Claying Around a try. They offer walk-in activities like ceramics, glass fusing, canvas, and mosaics, or you can book a class in advance.

And while we’re on the subject, another craft store I love is Pinspiration Easton. They have a super cool, one-of-a-kind splatter room that my kids adore.

Still have energy? Head over to Starland Sportsplex & Fun Park in Hanover. They have an arcade, laser tag, mini golf, bumper cars, go-karts, and more. Let your kids play, run, and slam bumper cars into each other until you have to carry them back to your car. Or…

Take them outside! There are so many beautiful places to hike and bike in and around Bridgewater. Some of my favorites are the Bluff Trail to Turkey Trail at Moose Hill, Bare Cove Park, Rockland Rail Trail, and Wompatuck State Park.

These are great spring activities, but honestly, a lot of them can be done year-round. Hang on to them for summer vacation, winter break, holiday weekends—whatever works. Your kids will love it, and you’ll get to keep your sanity. *wink*