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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5-Minute Sensory Fun: How to Make Soap Foam for Indoor Playtime - Keep Kids Engaged and Entertained All Winter Long
Discover the magic of soap foam with this easy recipe and how-to guide. Keep kids of all ages entertained with this versatile and non-messy sensory material. Perfect for indoor playtime during the cold winter months or for a relaxing bathtime experience.
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
Cornstarch and Water for Easy Sensory Play
Oobleck is great for kids because it provides a hands-on sensory experience that encourages exploration of non-Newtonian fluids, fostering curiosity and fine motor skills development. Find out the details here.
Water Play for Kids: The Benefits and Easy Setup for Parents | Animal Washing Station Idea
Looking for an easy and affordable way to keep your kids entertained while promoting their learning and development? Try setting up a water play station! Our animal washing station idea is a hit with kids and helps promote muscle development, cognitive growth, and language skills. Discover the benefits of water play with our tips for easy setup.
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
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.
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.
Rainbow Rice... How to Make It and Why You’ll Want To
Curious about making a rainbow rice sensory bin? Check out this post for all the tips and tricks!
FIVE TIPS FOR HOW TO HANDLE MESSY PLAY INDOORS
Does messy play feel intimidating and overwhelming?
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.