As a sleep consultant, I always suggest maintaining “Quiet Time” when naps begin to ebb.  It encourages independent play, but it also allows them to rest and even nap if they wish.

As a parent, I NEED Quiet Time.  A few minutes to myself to “regroup” is enough to recharge my parent batteries.

When I can keep my daughter interested in something interesting, quiet time is much more successful.

Felt boards are fun and quiet.  It’s a great way to foster imaginative play.  We have super girlie and very pink/purple ballerinas.  There are lots of options from Creatology, which they carry at Michaels.  We always seem to get flyers that include coupons for 40% off (check the front of the store for flyers, or if you can’t find one, I believe you can join a email list and they’ll offer you the deal).

There are a tonne of options available from Etsy as well!