"Why do I have to go outside to experience nature?" the middle school student asked. "Isn't there an app I can use instead?"

That might seem shocking or humorous to those of us who didn't grow up with our noses in electronic screens all the time. But for today's children, it's a reality that virtual reality is king.

While young people may be better at using their cell phones and programming websites than their elders, a life spent indoors has its down sides, too. 

We've all heard about childhood obesity, but there are mental effects, too. Computers and phones do the thinking for us, and we lose our own innate creativity and problem-solving abilities when we don't find ways to engage them. Getting back outside is a great way to reignite those skills.

When I was a kid, my favorite place to play was the empty lot next door, where a felled oak tree lay. That tree was the best toy I had - on various days it was my rocket ship for exploring other worlds, the pony I wanted so badly, the balance beam I walked as a champion gymnast. 

You no doubt had those experiences too when you were a child, and that's why you're a Sequoia Riverlands Trust supporter today. You understand that outdoor play and learning open kids' minds to the possible, such as new career options, and the almost impossible, those dreams we only dare to dream as children.

You can help today's kids get those experiences - it's easy and affordable. Just $100 sends a class of 20 to Kaweah Oaks Preserve for a half-day field trip. For many it's their first visit to a natural area, even though they live just minutes away. The students hike, look at trees and animals, and play educational games that have them laughing and learning at the same time.

Make a gift this spring to SRT to send more kids on field trips to our preserves. It's easy to do on SRT's website. Or you can send a check to SRT at 427 S. Garden St., Visalia, CA 93277.

And makes sure to follow SRT on Twitter @riverlandstrust, on Instagram @SequoiaRiverlands and of course on our Facebook page to see the happy, smiling faces of the latest class of students getting their first taste of science education at one of our preserves.