With the dominance of the digital age fueling increasingly sedentary lifestyles among children, a group of concerned mothers have emphasized the urgent need for families to reintroduce outdoor play into their children’s routines—particularly during holiday seasons. These mothers, who are the founders of Nano, Mini and Tots, a child-focused initiative, have launched a movement aimed at promoting safe and engaging outdoor experiences that foster children’s holistic development.

Sedentary Living on the Rise in the Tech Era

Modern technology, while transformative in many ways, has had unintended consequences on children’s well-being. Long hours spent on screens have significantly reduced physical activity levels, contributing to a worrying trend of sedentary behavior among young people. According to the mothers behind Nano, Mini and Tots, this lifestyle shift is already taking a toll on children’s physical and mental health, exposing them to various risks such as obesity, anxiety, poor posture, and underdeveloped motor skills.

Although technology holds potential to encourage physical movement through educational and interactive platforms, the founders highlighted that most data point to negative health outcomes from its current use patterns. As a response, they created Nano, Mini and Tots—a platform that not only supports children’s play needs but also reinforces safe, educational, and fun environments that counteract the effects of excessive screen time.

A Fun-Filled Holiday Fiesta with a Purpose

The 2025 Easter Fun Fiesta, organized by the group in Lagos, brought these ideas to life in an atmosphere filled with joy, laughter, and reflection. The event, which featured a wide array of activities including games, food stalls, arts and crafts, and carnival booths, drew dozens of excited children and their families. The celebration doubled as a platform for educating parents about the critical importance of unstructured, creative outdoor play.

One of the founding members, Dr. Tosin Adeniyi, shared insights into the motivation behind the initiative. A seasoned medical doctor with over 15 years of global experience and a mother of two, Adeniyi said her professional background in health and personal commitment to child development inspired her to advocate for outdoor activities.

“Children need more than gadgets—they need enriching environments that stimulate their senses and strengthen their bodies. Outdoor play enhances everything from sensory awareness to problem-solving skills,” she explained. “Our dream to build Nano, Mini and Tots was born out of a deep concern for the absence of safe spaces for play. We’re not just promoting fun, but also learning, creativity, and social development.”

Creating a Well-Rounded Experience for Children

According to Adeniyi, the group tailored the event to cover different areas of child development. “We created zones for arts, crafts, cooking, and decorating—not just games. These hands-on activities help children engage in ways that digital media cannot replicate. They learn to collaborate, imagine, and build,” she said.

She encouraged parents—especially those with demanding schedules—to carve out time during holidays to bond with their children, take them outdoors, and share experiences that nurture both relationships and growth. Adeniyi also underscored the importance of family meals, noting that shared eating times foster connection and contribute to overall wellness.

Nano, Mini and Tots: Designed with Children in Mind

The name Nano, Mini and Tots represents distinct age brackets among children, reinforcing the group’s focus on offering age-appropriate, developmentally supportive activities. From toddlers to older children, the initiative targets multiple stages of growth with tailored interventions that meet both educational and recreational needs.

The founders believe that by appealing to children’s natural curiosity and energy, the project can effectively reduce dependence on screens and reorient families toward healthier lifestyles.

Building Core Memories Through Play

Another co-founder, Damilola Ajibade, also shared her perspective during the event. As an international property lawyer and founder of Diapers.ng, Ajibade emphasized that play is not only a right but also a fundamental tool for self-discovery among children.

“Outdoor activities allow children to discover their hidden talents, try new things, and make lasting friendships,” she said. “We’re building core memories that children will carry into adulthood. Those moments are just as important as academic achievements.”

Mitigating the Health Impact of Screen Addiction

Adesola Ajayi, a certified project manager with vast experience in oil, gas, and telecom sectors, echoed similar sentiments. She warned that excessive use of smartphones and other gadgets not only impairs children’s physical health but also their ability to form and maintain relationships.

“Engaging children in outdoor activities not only improves their physical strength but also boosts their confidence and social skills. This is especially important for reducing screen addiction and helping kids interact more naturally at school and home,” Ajayi noted.

Health Benefits of Outdoor Activities Are Backed by Research

Medical studies continue to affirm the extensive benefits of outdoor play. Experts agree that regular exposure to natural environments enhances cognitive functioning, reduces stress, and improves concentration and creativity in children. Outdoor environments also promote motor skill development, strengthen bones, and encourage cardiovascular fitness.

Notably, these health benefits often extend to adults too. Families who engage in outdoor play together report better emotional connection, reduced stress levels, and improved mental well-being.

The Way Forward: A Call to Action for Parents

The founders of Nano, Mini and Tots stress that reversing the growing dependency on screens starts at home. They urge parents to be intentional about balancing screen time with real-world interactions. While digital tools can be educational, they cannot replace the multi-dimensional benefits of physical play.

For parents unable to commit to elaborate outings, they recommend simple actions like family walks, garden play, or attending community events. The key lies in prioritizing active, shared experiences over passive consumption of media.

A Broader Vision for Healthier Children and Families

Ultimately, the mothers behind Nano, Mini and Tots envision a future where Nigerian children grow up in safe, healthy environments that foster their full potential—physically, emotionally, and socially. They believe that community efforts, backed by parental commitment, can change the trajectory of childhood development in the digital age.

As families face the challenges of raising children in a fast-paced, technology-driven world, these mothers offer a timely and practical reminder: childhood is meant to be explored, experienced, and enjoyed—outdoors.