Every child should know the awe of watching the sun rise over a pristine lake, the challenge of climbing a rugged trail, and the quiet of a night sky untouched by city lights. We know that these experiences are transformative in the life of a child. I remember the first time I saw the Milky Way in the night sky and fully realized that we’re all a part of something bigger. These experiences build resilience, foster creativity and teach lessons about nature that classrooms cannot replicate.

Yet, for too many children, particularly in underserved communities, opportunities to experience the outdoors are out of reach. A two-day backpacking trip or even a simple visit to a state park unfortunately remains a privilege. It’s not unusual for kids to have little interaction with the outdoors.

We know that families living in urban areas or economically disadvantaged communities often lack the resources, time or proximity to explore nature. Transportation, equipment and other expenses can quickly add up, making what should be a universal experience unattainable for millions of kids. This is where programs like Scouting America can make a difference, providing valuable opportunities like this for children from all backgrounds.

Outdoor experiences shouldn’t depend on where a child lives or their family’s socioeconomic status. They should be part of every childhood, as fundamental as a good education. Spending time outdoors helps kids develop critical thinking skills — plus, they are just happier. I have personally witnessed hundreds of times the impact outdoor programs can have on children, young adults and their families.

We know that time in nature improves mental health, boosts academic performance and fosters a sense of environmental stewardship. Studies focused on time spent in nature include a long list of benefits, including reduced risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, premature death and high blood pressure.

For children growing up in environments dominated by concrete or screens, these experiences can be life-changing. I think we all want to see a world where our kids spend less time in front of a screen and more time socializing and learning life skills, and we see this in scouting every day. They are playing outdoors, hiking the trails and being active. They’re challenging themselves to accomplish things they never thought possible, they’re learning how to work in a team to accomplish a shared goal, and they’re developing lifelong friendships. Phones and screens are put away with little intervention by adults because nature has a way of providing an enriching learning environment — it’s almost sneaky. As an adult, I can see now the benefits of having these outdoor experiences during my childhood. They absolutely helped me learn on so many different levels, shaped me into the person I am today, and gave me memories and friendships that will last a lifetime.

Let’s ensure every child — no matter their zip code — has the chance to strap on a backpack, hike a trail and sleep under the stars. The great outdoors belongs to all of us. It’s time we made it accessible to all. Every kid will benefit.

Alex Stout is the Baltimore area camping director for Scouting America, formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America.