SOMETHING PLAYFUL BLOGReal stories, gentle guidance + small shifts to help you find calm in the middle of it all.
Welcome to the space where we talk about what parenting really looks like. The messy moments. The funny ones. The ones that make you question everything you thought you knew. Here, you’ll find reflections, essays, and practical tools to help you raise connected, curious kids (and feel a little more grounded yourself along the way). No perfection. No guilt. Just real-life parenting.
A READ YOU CAN't miss:Maybe a “Good Day” at School Isn’t What You Think
From preschool pickup to college drop-off, this part hasn’t changed.
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You Don’t Have to Recreate a 90's Summer- let go of the pressure and keep the good stuff
Why trying too hard backfires/ loose routines/ screens are not the enemy/ ways to deal with boredom/ easy summer play ideas
Is This Worth Setting Up? 4 Questions to Ask Before Starting Any Activity with Kids
why some crafts might be setting you and your child up for failure/One Shell, 4 Prompts by Age (toddler, preschool, early grades, teens and tweens)
Overscheduled Kids? 10 Must-Ask Questions Before Signing Up for Fall Activities
When my kids were small, I was a SAHM and I did not need childcare. I wanted my kids to be exposed to valuable sports and lessons, but it was more important to me to protect their unscheduled downtime. Leaving as many afternoons open as possible was my goal. At school, they were told when to sit, where to walk, and how to learn. It’s structured down to the minute. At home, I felt that my job was to provide the balance.
8 Fun & Easy Spring Activities for Kids and Tired Parents
Looking for some simple, engaging outdoor activities to bridge the post-nap to dinner gap?
Halloween Rice Krispie Treats Simplified
Simple spooky treats for Halloween. Tips on how to decorate without the fuss.
Easy Ice Play Activity for Kids
An icy cold activity that won’t cost a dime and will entertain a very young child equally as well as a grade-schooler.
3 Fun and Engaging Activities to Calm Tired and Cranky Kids
Three easy activities you can pull off when you are both exhausted and need a break.
ICE PLAY FOR CHILDREN
An activity that won’t cost a dime and will entertain a very young child equally as well as a grade schooler.
A New Way to Think About 'Wasting' Art Supplies
Worried about your kids wasting art supplies? Here’s why you shouldn’t be.
THREE ACTIVITIES FOR TIRED AND CRANKY KIDS AND MOMS
Three easy activities you can pull off when you are both exhausted.
An Easy Guide to Keeping the Kids Entertained at Home
Easy activities for all ages for when you are feeling cooped up at home, or anytime!
THREE ACTIVITIES FOR TIRED AND CRANKY KIDS
What to do with tired, craky kids after a long day of school.
Hi! I’m Lizzie Assa, and I’m not here to fix your kid.
Parenting strategist, educator + momI’m here to help you feel better while you raise them.
I’m a parenting strategist, educator, and mom of three big kids who were once little and loud and made me question everything. Now I help parents of kids under 12 do it differently. Not perfectly. Just with more clarity, more connection, and way less second-guessing.
THE PLAY SHOP YOU’VE BEEN SEARCHING FORMy favorite toys, art supplies, storage hacks, and travel must-haves—all in one place.
Over the years, I’ve tested more toys, activities, and playroom setups than I can count. These are the ones that actually last—the ones your kids will come back to again and again. From gifts for ages 1–12 to water play essentials, creative art supplies, travel gear, and smart storage finds, these curated favorites help you bring more ease (and joy) to everyday play.