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
Rough & Tumble Play: Why It's Vital for Kids and How to Guide It Safely
Research shows that rough-and-tumble play helps kids learn to regulate and manage emotions… How to manage when things get too rough.
Breaking the Ice: Simple Tricks to Get Your Kids Chatting About the Tough Stuff
Have you ever found yourself in a spot where your child is going through something tough, and you sense they really need to talk it out, but you're just not sure how to start digging into it? This post will give you some tools to navigate those challenging conversations.
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
Effective Communication: 4 Things to Say When Your Child Doesn't Get Their Way
Effective communication with your child is crucial for their growth and development. When your child doesn't get their way, it can be challenging to navigate the situation without causing a meltdown. In this blog post, I’ll cover four things you can say to your child to help them understand their feelings and find a solution that works for everyone.
How to Stick To Your Limit When Your Child Is Crying
Setting limits is HARD. Setting limits when your child is melting down is even HARDER. Here are 4 steps to help you stay grounded and anchor you in the storm.
When Your Child Says, "I Hate You!"
What do do when your child says I hate you, plus our favorite children’s books for talking about anger with your kids.
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.