When I became a new dad, I quickly learned that a sleeping baby is a precious gift. Those blissful moments of quiet can feel like a rare oasis in the chaos of early parenthood.
But what to do with this newfound freedom?
While the temptation to simply collapse on the sofa is strong, I discovered that using nap time productively can be incredibly rewarding.
Here are ten brilliant ways for dads to make the most of those precious naptime windows.
1. Savour a Proper Cuppa
There’s something special about enjoying a hot cup of tea or coffee without interruption. You can only appreciate it after you have had kids.
No more lukewarm brews or forgotten mugs. During naptime, I love to brew a proper cuppa using my favourite loose-leaf tea or freshly ground coffee beans. I’ll even treat myself to a biscuit or two while I’m at it. It’s a small luxury, but one that helps me feel human again.
To elevate the experience, consider investing in a quality travel mug. This way, even if your little one wakes earlier than expected, you can still enjoy your drink without worry. Plus, it’s perfect for those days when you need to take your caffeine fix on the go.
2. Tackle the Laundry
I know, I know – laundry isn’t exactly thrilling. But hear me out. There’s something oddly satisfying about conquering Mount Washmore while your little one slumbers. I’ve found that breaking the task into smaller chunks makes it more manageable. During one nap, I might sort and start a load. The next, I’ll fold and put away.
To make the chore more enjoyable, I often pop on a podcast or audiobook while I work. It’s a great way to catch up on current events or lose myself in a good story while being productive. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment when you close that last drawer of neatly folded clothes.
3. Get Moving
Exercise might be the last thing on your mind when you’re sleep-deprived, but a bit of physical activity can do wonders for your energy levels and mood. I’m not suggesting you run a marathon, mind you. Even a 15-minute yoga session or a quick set of bodyweight exercises can make a world of difference.
If you’re not sure where to start, there are loads of great fitness apps and YouTube channels geared towards busy parents. Look for workouts that require minimal equipment and can be done quietly – you don’t want to wake the baby.
Remember, any movement is better than none, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself.
4. Prep for Dinner
As a dad, I’ve found that one of the best ways to support my partner is by taking charge of meal planning and prep. Using naptime to get a head start on dinner can make evenings much less stressful. I like to chop vegetables, marinate meat, or even assemble a casserole that can be popped in the oven later.
(There are some great recipe ideas here)
If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, consider batch cooking. Spend one naptime making a large pot of soup or stew that can be portioned out for several meals. Your future self (and your partner) will thank you on those hectic days when cooking feels impossible.
5. Reconnect with Mates
Maintaining friendships can be challenging when you’re in the thick of new parenthood, and let’s face it, blokes aren’t always the best at keeping in touch. That’s why I’ve started using naptime as an opportunity to catch up with mates. A quick phone call or video chat can do wonders for your social life and mental health.
If a call isn’t feasible (perhaps your little one is a light sleeper), consider sending a few text messages or emails. Even a brief check-in can help you feel more connected to the outside world. Just remember to keep your phone on silent.
6. Declutter and Organise
It’s amazing how quickly baby gear can take over your home. I’ve found that using naptime to tackle small decluttering projects helps keep the chaos at bay. One day I might sort through the mountain of outgrown clothes, the next I’ll organise the changing table supplies.
Start with one small area or category at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed. The goal isn’t to achieve perfection, but rather to create a bit more order in your daily life. Plus, a tidy space can do wonders for your mental clarity.
7. Indulge in a Hobby
Remember those things you used to do for fun before becoming a dad? Naptime is the perfect opportunity to reconnect with old hobbies or explore new ones. Whether it’s reading a book, sketching, playing an instrument, gaming, or tinkering with your model train set, engaging in a hobby can be a great way to recharge.
The key is to choose activities that you can easily pause if your little one wakes up unexpectedly. I’ve found that having a dedicated ‘hobby corner’ set up and ready to go makes it easier to dive in during those precious naptime windows.
8. Learn Something New
Who says naptime can’t be educational? I’ve started using these quiet moments to expand my knowledge and skills. There are countless online courses, tutorials, and educational videos available on just about any topic you can imagine.
Perhaps you want to learn a new language to share with your little one as they grow. Or maybe you’re interested in picking up some DIY skills to tackle home improvement projects. Whatever piques your interest, naptime can be a great opportunity for personal growth and development, and there are tons of apps that deliver learning in bitesize chunks these days too.
9. Catch Up on Admin or Work
Let’s face it – adulting doesn’t stop when you become a parent. Bills still need paying, appointments need booking, and paperwork needs filing. While it might not be the most exciting way to spend naptime, using this quiet period to catch up on administrative tasks can help reduce stress in the long run.
I like to keep a running list of small admin tasks that need attention. This way, I can quickly tackle a few items during each naptime without feeling overwhelmed. It’s amazing how much you can accomplish in short bursts, and that goes for catching up with work too.
10. Practice Mindfulness
Last but certainly not least, consider using naptime for some mindfulness practice. As a new dad, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of nappies, feeds, and sleepless nights. Taking a few moments to centre yourself can make a world of difference to your mental wellbeing.
This doesn’t have to mean formal meditation (although that’s great if it works for you). It could be as simple as sitting quietly and focusing on your breath for a few minutes. Or perhaps you prefer to practice gratitude by jotting down a few things you’re thankful for. Whatever form it takes, mindfulness can help you navigate the challenges of parenthood with a bit more grace and patience.
Of course, you could always go to sleep too. That counts as being productive when you’re sleep deprived!
