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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What is the After-School Restraint Collapse and How to Prepare for It
How to handle transitioning back to school and all of the emotions that come along with it.
Dinner at 3pm?
Ways to make school lunch easier for your newbie/ a lunchbox that’ll last until your kid loses it/ a side-by-side comparison of lunchboxes/ why I used to feed my kids dinner at 3pm
Here they come… I saw one, and then, like an avalanche, my inbox flooded.
when does school even start/ button fly jeans and a pee your pants moment/ /the best canvas kicks for your littles/ our 2024 BTS roundup/ what to do instead of teaching the ABCs
When Your Child Doesn't Want To Go To School
Is you child having a difficult time transitioning back to school? Check out this blog post for tips on how to make that change a little easier.
Back to School Roundup
I scoured the internet for everything you’ll need (and want) to send the kids back to school in style
5 Creative Ways to Ease the Back-to-School Transition: A Guide for Parents and Caregivers
With the back-to-school season upon us, the excitement, anticipation, and sometimes anxiety can be felt by both parents and children alike. Here are five creative, child-centered strategies to help ease this transition.
Conquering Separation Anxiety: 5 Proven Strategies to Support Your Child's Transition to School
For many children (and parents!), this can be a time of high anxiety and stress, particularly when it comes to saying goodbye at the classroom door. But don't worry, I'm here to help.
5 Key Tips for a Smooth School Lunchtime
Is your little one off to a full day of school? Will they be eating lunch at her new school? Here are some tips to make lunchtime predictable and successful for your child.
Why Your Child Loves Stories With Animals: Unpacking the "Child in a Fur Coat" Concept
Have you ever noticed that the characters in your child’s favorite shows and books are animals? There is a good reason for that (And no, it’s not just because kids love cute animals!)
Coping With Back to School Anxiety in January 2022
It is normal for your child to have anxiety around heading back to school over the break….
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.