
SOMETHING PLAYFUL BLOG
Real 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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Less Toys, More Play (And Why I Struggled With This Year's Holiday Gift Guide)
The Gift Guide I Almost Didn't Create And Why Less Really is More
4 Ways Your Kids Can Give Back This Holiday Season (And All Year Round)
How to raise kids who give back
How to Handle Kids' Shopping Demands: Holiday Edition
If your child is constantly asking for things this holiday season, you are not alone! I’ve got a few strategies for you when it comes to responding to your kids when they are asking for EVERYTHING!
One Phrase That Will Transform Your Holidays With Kids
"You really wished you had that too.” Sound simple? This phrase is about to become your go-to, especially when the kids' presents are being flaunted, and feelings of envy start bubbling up.
How to Teach Your Child Gracious Gift Receiving: A Simple Guide
We've all been there: Your child rips open a gift, and the look on their face says it all – it's not what they were hoping for. Read here for some strategies to gracefully navigate these all-too-common situations
8 Kid-Friendly Tips for Stress-Free Thanksgiving Hosting
Hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be a daunting task, especially when you have little ones to consider. But with some creative planning, you can make the holiday enjoyable for guests of all ages, including YOU!
Hi! I’m Lizzie Assa, and I’m not here to fix your kid.
Parenting strategist, educator + mom
I’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 FOR
My 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.