How to Actually Get Things Done During Nap Time (Without Losing Your Mind)
Nap time. It sounds like a gift from the heavens—and sometimes, it is.
But if you're a parent, you know the truth: those precious quiet minutes can come with a side of panic.
Should you clean?
Shower?
Nap yourself?
Fold the mountain of laundry?
Finally answer those emails?
Start dinner?
Or maybe, just maybe, sit down and do absolutely nothing?
If you've ever stood in the middle of your living room, mentally racing through ten things you could be doing while your baby sleeps, this one's for you.
We’re here for the kind of support that feels like a friend who totally gets it. The kind that tells you it’s okay to do less. The kind that knows you’re already doing more than enough.
Let’s walk through how to actually get things done during nap time—without the guilt, the pressure, or the performance expectations.
Start With What Matters Most—to You
Productivity is personal.
For one parent, it's catching up on work emails. For another, it’s taking a long shower or finally finishing a cup of coffee while it's still hot.
And sometimes? It’s simply laying down and closing your eyes for 20 minutes.
So let’s ditch the one-size-fits-all nap time routine. The most helpful thing you can do is ask yourself:
What would make me feel a little more human right now?
Sometimes the answer is rest.
Sometimes it's a chore.
And sometimes, it’s just scrolling your phone in peace.
Whatever it is—let that be enough.
Don’t Try to Do Everything—Choose One Thing
The biggest nap time trap is trying to cram too much into too little time.
You start the dishes, spot the laundry basket, remember the package you meant to open, then notice the baby book you meant to update.
Before you know it, baby’s crying and you’ve got five half-finished tasks and zero sense of calm.
Instead, try this: pick one thing. Just one.
That could be loading the dishwasher. Answering one email. Putting away laundry. Resting your eyes. Watering the plants. A single task gives you a finish line—and that sweet feeling of completion.
Break Tasks Into Mini Wins
If the idea of folding all the laundry or deep-cleaning anything makes your brain short-circuit, scale it way down. Focus on what you can do in 5 or 10 minutes. Wipe down one counter. Prep one part of dinner. Put away just the baby’s clothes.
These mini wins are still wins. They add up. And they give you something solid to show for that nap window, no matter how short.
Prep Before Nap Time Starts
When you know a nap is coming, even loosely, it helps to prep. Not in a “be ultra-productive” kind of way, but in a “don’t waste 10 minutes looking for your phone charger” kind of way.
Have a few go-to items ready: your water bottle, headphones, your laptop or book, maybe a snack or cozy blanket. That way, once baby is down, you can ease right into your plan instead of scrambling.
Let Some Days Be for Recovery, Not Progress
Not every nap time has to be useful in the traditional sense. Sometimes, the best use of your time is catching your breath. Especially after a rough night or a long morning. There’s no shame in that.
One of the kindest things you can do for yourself as a parent is recognize when you need a break—and take it. Even if that means the dishes sit a little longer or you eat cereal for lunch. You’re a better parent when you’re not running on empty.
When in Doubt, Set a Timer
If you're not sure where to start, set a 10-minute timer. Use it to tidy one room, write down your to-dos, sit in silence, or move your body. Sometimes starting is the hardest part, and this little trick helps you get over that hump. And if the timer goes off and you're done? Great. If you keep going? Also great.
Try Using Sound to Anchor Your Focus
The right sounds can help set the mood—whether you're working or winding down. Some parents swear by lo-fi beats or white noise to help them focus, while others prefer nature sounds or a short guided meditation to recharge.
Experiment a bit and see what helps your brain settle. Just like your baby has sleep cues, you can build your own sensory signals for “now’s the time to reset.”
Simplify the Stuff That Sucks Up Time
If you’re constantly spinning your wheels on everyday tasks, it might be time to automate or simplify. That could mean setting up a weekly grocery delivery. Ordering diapers in bulk. Creating a meal plan with three go-to dinners. Choosing clothes that are easy to mix and match—like our bamboo coveralls that go from nap to play to dinner without a fuss.
The less you have to think about those things, the more headspace you’ll have during nap time (and beyond).
Give Yourself a Mind Reset
Before you dive into any task, take 60 seconds to pause. Breathe. Check in.
Ask yourself: What do I need right now?
Do you need movement? Stillness? Focus? A snack? A text to a friend? Let that guide you.
This little pause helps you move from reactivity to intention—which is a game-changer when time is limited.
Remember: Connection Is More Valuable Than Productivity
When you look back on these early years, it won’t matter how many tasks you crushed during nap time. What will matter is how you felt. How your home felt. How your baby felt being cared for by you.
So if the most important thing you do today is sit in quiet and refill your own cup, that counts. More than you know.
Nap time isn’t just for baby. It’s for you, too. Whether you use it to hustle, rest, or something in between, the goal isn’t to “do it all.” It’s to do what helps.
And if all you do is read this and take one deep breath? That’s already something.
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Got a nap time routine that works like magic? We’re all ears. Tag us @coco_moon_hawaii or share your wisdom in the comments—because this whole parenting thing? We’re figuring it out together.
