Picture this: You’ve finally gotten your little one down for a nap. You have a rare, quiet moment to yourself—but what do you do? Scrolling social media, tidying up, or squeezing in a quick nap might seem like the go-to options, but what if you could use this time to do something creative, fulfilling, and maybe even profitable?
If you’ve ever thought about finding a hobby, starting a small business, or just reclaiming a little "me time," naptime is the perfect opportunity. Here are some fun and creative ways to make the most of those precious quiet moments.
1. Try Your Hand at Crafting (and maybe start a business!)
Handmade crafts are more than just a fun way to unwind—they can also turn into an income stream. Many successful mompreneurs started their businesses during naptimes, creating products like:
- Jewelry (personalized bracelets, necklaces, or rings)
- Handmade candles or soaps
- Knitted or crocheted items (baby blankets, hats, or plush toys)
- Custom home decor (painted signs, macramé, or wreaths)
- Personalized gifts (engraved keychains, embroidered items, or vinyl decals)
If you find a craft you love, you might just discover a way to turn it into a business, selling your creations on Etsy, Instagram, or a personal website.
2. Journaling or Blogging (Yes, it can be profitable!)
Writing is one of the best ways to clear your mind and express your creativity. Whether you keep a private journal or start a blog, putting your thoughts on paper (or screen) is a great naptime activity.
Some moms have even turned blogging into a full-time job, writing about parenting, DIY projects, or family life. With the right niche and a bit of SEO strategy, blogging can generate income through ads, sponsored posts, or digital products.
3. Make Digital Designs to Sell Online
If you love being creative but don’t want to deal with physical inventory, digital products might be your thing. You can create:
- Printable planners or checklists
- Digital art or wall prints
- Canva templates for social media
- E-books or guides on topics you love
Websites like Etsy, Gumroad, or Creative Market make it easy to sell digital downloads with zero shipping hassle.
4. Start a Small Online Shop
Do you have a talent for thrifting, creating handmade products, or curating beautiful things? Platforms like Etsy, eBay, and Shopify allow you to sell unique items from the comfort of your home. Some easy online shop ideas include:
- Selling vintage finds from thrift stores
- Dropshipping trending products
- Curating and selling craft supplies
- Creating handmade baby clothes or accessories
Starting small during naptimes can lead to a full-fledged business if you find something that works.
5. Learn a New Skill That Could Earn You Money
If you’re not sure what creative outlet to explore, why not learn something new? Taking an online course or watching YouTube tutorials during naptime can help you build skills like:
- Graphic design
- Calligraphy or hand-lettering
- Photography
- Social media marketing
- Website design
With time and practice, these skills could turn into freelance work or a profitable business venture.
6. DIY Home Projects & Upcycling
Got a knack for decorating? Use naptime to tackle small DIY projects, like:
- Painting or refinishing old furniture
- Creating handmade holiday decorations
- Upcycling thrifted items into trendy decor
Sharing your projects on social media could even lead to opportunities for selling or teaching others how to do the same.
7. Make Handmade Gifts for Loved Ones
If you love crafting but don’t want the pressure of selling, why not make gifts for family and friends? Personalized, handmade gifts like:
- Embroidered baby clothes
- Custom mugs or tumblers
- Scrapbooks or photo albums
…can be extra special, and who knows? Your friends might start asking to buy them!
8. Plan Your Dream Business (even if you're not ready yet!)
If you’ve ever thought about starting a business but aren’t sure where to begin, use naptime to brainstorm. Think about:
- What you love creating
- Who your ideal customers would be
- Where you could sell your products
Even if you’re just dreaming for now, taking small steps can build momentum!
Ready to Turn Naptime into a Thriving Handmade Business?
If any of these ideas sparked something inside you, my book Naptime Enterprises is here to help! Written specifically for moms who want to start a handmade business from home, it’s packed with practical advice, step-by-step exercises, and real-life success stories to guide you from hobby to thriving business.
Because let’s be honest—naptime is short, but your dreams are big. 💕
