Children’s Day is here again. In Nigeria, May 27 is more than a holiday, it’s a joyful reminder of the laughter, curiosity, and boundless potential of our little ones.

Traditionally marked with fanfare and play, this year let’s celebrate in a way that not only nurtures our children but also the planet they will inherit. Whether through green gifts, nature-based adventures, or sustainable activities at home or in school, there are many fun and impactful ways to make this Children’s Day both memorable and meaningful.

Eco-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Children’s Day

1. Gift Eco Books Instead of Plastic Toys

Instead of plastic toys and single-use party favors, gift children books made from recycled and sustainable materials. These spark curiosity while being kind to the Earth.
Recommended titles include:

• Tobi Visits the Conservatory by Olubunmi Aboderin Talabi – a charming story of Lagos tourism, family bonding, and conservation, perfect for ages 4–6.
• Eseohe the Little Environmentalist, Ife the Energy Conservator, and Tunde’s Mango Tree – all available on EkoPages.

2. Explore Nature Through Eco-Tourism

Turn Children’s Day into an adventure! Explore eco-tourism sites where kids can discover wildlife and learn about the environment.
Top destinations:

• Lekki Conservation Centre (Lagos)
• Yankari Game Reserve (Bauchi)
• Okomu National Park (Edo)
• Ngwo Pine Forest (Enugu)

These visits help children connect with nature and understand the importance of environmental preservation.

3. Host a Creative Recycling Workshop

Organize a fun recycling activity at home, school, or in your community. Kids can transform old cartons, magazines, and bottles into art, toys, or decorations.

Target audience: Ages 5–12
Venue suggestions: School halls, community centers, or backyards

This not only fosters creativity but also plants seeds of environmental responsibility at an early age.

4. Throw an Eco-Friendly Party

Host a green celebration using:

• Reusable utensils and plates
• Locally made decorations
• Recycled wrapping paper
• Recyclable party favors

You can even use the event to demonstrate basic recycling or composting techniques. This way, children see sustainability as fun, practical, and rewarding.

Example: During a recent Children’s Day event, LAWMA’s MD/CEO Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin emphasized the importance of teaching kids about recycling early. According to him, parents and caregivers must instill waste management habits in children to build a sustainable future.

Read more from LAWMA’s Children’s Day Message

Celebrate the Future, Sustainably

As we mark this year’s Children’s Day, let’s look beyond balloons and cake. Let’s raise environmentally conscious children by showing them that sustainability is not just necessary, it’s exciting, creative, and fulfilling.

These simple experiences can leave lasting impressions and shape lifelong habits. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or community leader, your choices today influence the kind of world our children will inherit tomorrow.

Let’s make this Children’s Day not just a celebration of youth, but a celebration of a greener, more sustainable future.

REFERENCES

• EkoPages – Eco-themed Children’s Books
• LAWMA on Recycling Education for Kids
• Talabi, Olubunmi. Tobi Visits the Conservatory. Read more