Hey writers! Welcome back to Better Writing in 5, where we help you write more, procrastinate less, and remember what day it is. Writing as a stay-at-home parent? Not exactly a walk in the park. Between laundry, snacks, and the constant chorus of “MOM!”, it can feel impossible to carve out writing time. But guess what? You can do it.

Here’s how to manage your time and make writing a priority—even when the little ones are running the show:

1. Set that alarm

I know, waking up early sounds like cruel and unusual punishment. But hear me out: mornings are your secret weapon. Set your alarm 20-30 minutes earlier than usual, and you’ll have a quiet window before the chaos begins. Use this time to get some words down while your brain is still fresh, and the kids are (hopefully) asleep. You’ll feel like a productivity ninja—and still have time for coffee.

2. Seize naptime

Naptime is your holy grail. Whether you get 90 minutes or just 30, make it count. Put away the phone, forget the laundry, and get writing. If your kid is playing quietly, grab that time too. Treat naptime like a mini writing retreat. The more focused you are during this window, the more you’ll get done—and the happier you’ll be when they wake up.

3. Supercharge creativity with the kids

Who says writing has to be a solo activity? If your kids are old enough, involve them in your creative process. Have a “creative hour” where everyone reads, draws, or helps brainstorm ideas. You’d be surprised at how much a child’s wild imagination can spark your own! Plus, it’s a great way to show them how much fun writing can be, even if it’s just a scribbled doodle of your main character.

4. Set writing boundaries

Want more writing time? Set boundaries. I’m talking about no answering the phone, no checking emails, and no sneaking off to do errands. Treat your writing time like a meeting with your boss—because it is. Let your family know that this is sacred time. With consistency, they’ll learn to respect it (and you’ll get more writing done).

5. Stay flexible

Writing as a stay-at-home parent isn’t about perfection. It’s about making time for what matters, finding moments of focus, and refusing to let the chaos win. Every sentence you write, no matter how small, is progress. So embrace the process, be proud of your efforts, and keep showing up.

Conclusion

Writing more in less time isn’t about working yourself to the bone. It’s about creating consistent habits, limiting distractions, and making the most of the time you’ve got. Stick to your routine, keep your goals manageable, and write smarter, not harder. You’ve got this—just maybe not before that third cup of coffee.