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.
ALL BLOG POSTS
✸
ALL BLOG POSTS ✸
Search by Category
How to Actually Enjoy Vacation With Kids (Yes, Even Little Ones)
It won’t be perfect or tantrum-free, but if you play your cards right, it can be very enjoyable. Not because you have the perfect family, but because you’ve found what actually works for your imperfect family.
Beach Survival Guide for Moms Who Want to Sit Down This Summer (Even with little kids.)
You don’t need to sweat the beach with kids. You need smart systems, durable gear, and some surprisingly simple play tools.
How to Set Up Long Lasting Potion Play
creating childhood memories/ what they're learning/ why it's more than just "keeping them busy"
5 Ways to Reuse Your Child's Artwork
What to do with all that art work, plus our fave art supplies for summer!
2024 Mother's Day Gift Guide
Ultimate Mother's Day Gift Guide: I’ve curated the perfect gift guide for any special woman in your life!
Top Gear for Spring Outdoor Play with Your Kids
Spring gear to get the kids playing outside for hours.
The Secret Reason Toddlers Want the Same Book Read Over...and Over...and Over Again
If you're a parent of a toddler, you've likely experienced your little one insisting you read the same book constantly. Click here to find out why thats a GOOD thing!
Fostering Resilience: Helping Kids Cope with Disappointment
Instead of fixing your child’s feelings, help them find ways to cope with what they’re experiencing.
5 Reasons to Let Your Kids Be Barefoot
Let's talk about the benefits of letting your kids play barefoot, including improved foot and leg strength, sensory stimulation, and better balance and coordination skills. While some adults may raise eyebrows or disapprove, science-backed data shows that going barefoot can contribute to healthy physical and cognitive development.
3 Essential Tips to Get Kids Playing: Insight from a Mom and Play Expert
You know how important play is for your child, but sometimes play can feel overwhelming. Here are three simple tips that can transform your child’s playtime.
2024 Easter Gift Guide
Discover the perfect Easter gifts for every bunny on your list! From sweet treats to thoughtful tokens, our gift guide has you covered.
Helping Your Child Cope with Waiting: Strategies and Book Ideas
It is so hard to wait. Read this for tips.
How Do Children Use Play Silks?
How many ways can you use a play silk? Dust off those play silks and watch your child’s independent play explode!
Books and Simple Activities to Help Sick Kids Feel Better
Are your kids feeling a little under the weather?
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.