What Should a Nanny Be Doing During Nap Time?

One of the most common questions families ask is, “What should my nanny be doing while my child is napping?” While it may seem like a simple question, the answer is often more nuanced than many parents realize.

Nap time serves two important purposes: it allows children the rest they need to grow and thrive, and it provides nannies with an opportunity to complete child-related responsibilities, prepare for upcoming activities, and enjoy a reasonable amount of downtime throughout their workday.

It’s important to remember that nannies are professionals, not machines. Just as a parent may use a child’s nap time to sit down with a cup of coffee, answer messages, or take a short mental break, a nanny should be afforded similar opportunities. A well-rested, appreciated nanny is more engaged, patient, and effective when caring for children.

That said, nap time can also be a valuable period for completing tasks that support the child’s development and help the household run smoothly. Depending on the family’s expectations and the terms of employment, these responsibilities may include:

CHILDREN'S LAUNDRY // I love starting a load of laundry in the morning. It’s a perfect way to get things going, and by the time the little ones are ready for their nap, you can pop it in the dryer and fold it afterward. I will say, I have always found that involving children in folding laundry can be a fun experience. I often play peek-a-boo with the younger ones or turn it into a fun game as they grow. Children really enjoy helping out around the house, and laundry is a great way for them to pitch in while learning responsibility. It may take a little extra time, but it's a rewarding activity to share. If you prefer no help, nap time is the time to wash, fold, and put away their clothes—and even their sheets, if the house cleaner does not take on that chore!

CHILD RELATED MESSES// Tidying up child-related messes is a way to give the children a calm and welcoming reset for when they wake up, plus it helps so there is less to do in the evening before the shift ends. This could also include sanitizing toys, bottles, highchairs, and feeding supplies.  If time allows, organizing board games, puzzles, books, arts-and-crafts supplies, and educational materials is always appreciated by families. Rotating toys is a great way to keep play areas engaging and developmentally appropriate.

PREPARING ACTIVITIES// Naptime is the perfect opportunity to get creative with age-appropriate arts and crafts, sensory bins, and engaging learning activities! Filling the water table for post-nap fun, organizing a scavenger hunt, or planning an exciting afternoon adventure are all things you can do during nap time. It's also a wonderful chance to set up materials for open-ended play or bring out baking supplies for some delicious kitchen fun.

DEVELOPMENT CLASSES AND PARENTING BOOKS// Continuing your education is incredibly valuable in any field, and childcare is no exception! With many online classes available, nap time transforms into the perfect opportunity for learning. Whether you're renewing your CPR certification or exploring a vast array of courses, it’s a great way to grow your skills when the kids are resting. Plus, diving into childcare and child development resources will certainly boost your resume! When parents ask the nanny to read a book they found helpful, and everyone can be on the same page, I remind the parents that this is paid time for the nanny. Most will complete that task at nap time.

REGISTERING CHILDREN FOR EXTRACURRICULARS// Enrolling children in extracurricular activities can be a journey that requires time and patience—something I’ve definitely experienced! However, if you can carve out some downtime while the house is quiet, it becomes much easier to tackle the necessary forms for classes, camps, sports, and other family-requested activities.

RESTOCK// Restocking diapers and wipes, diaper bags, snack bins, or art supplies used by the child can all be completed while the child is napping.

FOOD PREP// Unless your nanny is a family assistant, preparing snacks, lunches, or simple meals is for the child only.  Many families want the nanny to cook for them as well, and they sure can if they enjoy that, just be prepared to pay a premium for that level of service. Many nannies will make batch meals, especially for breakfast, and freeze them if the family has room.

Every family-and-nanny relationship is different, and expectations should always be discussed openly before employment begins and be included in a nanny contract.  The goal is not to fill every minute of nap time with work, but rather to find a healthy balance between productivity, professional growth, and well-deserved downtime.

When families recognize that both children and caregivers benefit from periods of rest and reset, they create a healthier and more sustainable working relationship for everyone involved.