
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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Teaching Independent Play: How to Help Your Child Who Needs Constant Feedback
If you have a child who constantly seeks attention and feedback, you might think they’ll never play independently. But rest assured, all children can learn to play independently. It may just take a little extra effort and patience on your part.
Nurturing Self-Directed Play: How to Inspire Your Child's Independence
Learn how to nurture your child's self-directed play with these practical strategies. From observing their interests to creating engaging play invitations, discover how to support your 2-8 year old's independent play skills at home and outdoors.
Fostering Trust Through Independent Play
As a fellow parent and a play expert, I've learned that one of the most valuable gifts we can give our children (and ourselves) is the freedom to play independently. This not only sparks their creativity and decision-making skills but also builds their confidence and trust in their own abilities.
Is Your Child Ready for a Successful Quiet Time Today?
Have you ever noticed that despite a solid routine, there are just some days when you know your child is not going to have a successful quiet time? There’s a good reason and it is completely solvable.
Encouraging Independent Play: Strategies for Overcoming Parental Obstacles
If your child is struggling to play independently, use these play tips to help toddlers, preschoolers, and grade schoolers.
3 Creative Indoor Play Ideas with LALO's Sorting Coins: Perfect for Toddlers and Preschoolers
There is a cold front rolling across much of the country this week, so it looks like we will be playing indoors. Sometimes a new twist on an already loved toy is all you need to get the littles playing productively while you grab a few minutes to yourself.
6 Essential Tips for Creating a Safe Independent Play Space for Your Child
You finally got them to play independently, and now you’re worried about whether or not it’s safe to let them play independently!
Revitalize Playtime: 3 Expert Strategies to Get Your Kids Playing With Their Toys
Your child's eyes sparkled with every gift they unwrapped this Christmas, but now, those same toys are gathering dust in the corner. Before frustration sets in, take a deep breath. We’ve got you covered with a few effective strategies to transition from toy overload to productive independent play.
Turning Busy Days into Playful Moments: Toddler-Friendly Tips for the Holidays
How to turn your whining toddler into a playful toddler when you are hustling to get it all done.
Creating Play Spaces: A Guide to Encouraging Independent Play at Home
Three tips for more independent play at home
Narrating Play: Boost Your Child's Growth & Independence
Sometimes playing with your baby can feel daunting. Here’s a way to play that will not only boost development but also build the foundation for independent play later on. (plus our favorite play for baby!)
4 Tips for Independent Play On-The-Go With Kids
Traveling with kids can certainly be an adventure, but it's usually not the relaxing vacation we dream of. Try these 4 tips to make your trip smooth sailing!
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.