A great place to start is by taking your kids outdoors — a lot.

As the parent of a 6-year old and a 10-month-old, I think a lot about how our family can provide experiences that help them reach their potential. As the head of the National Wildlife Federation, I am also focused on where children spend their time, and how it impacts their lives.

Here is a sobering statistic: The average American child spends five to eight hours a day in front of a digital screen, often at the expense of unstructured play in nature.

The good news is departing from this trend is easier than you think, and quality outside time can fit into even the busiest of schedules.

It is worth the effort; the benefits go beyond a little time spent in the fresh air.