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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Don’t Turn the Car Around: Why holding back is sometimes the most supportive parenting move you can make.
Rescuing them from discomfort also robs them of resilience.
The Ultimate Back-to-School Survival Guide for Moms Who Want to Stay Sane This September.
Because ripped backpacks, untouched lunches, and mystery leaks don’t need to be part of your story.
School Readiness Isn’t Reciting the Alphabet
…It’s being able to handle a “no” at the bakery.
Stop Explaining the Fish
Why stepping back is the parenting move no one talks about (but every child needs)
You Don’t Have to Recreate a 90's Summer- let go of the pressure and keep the good stuff
Why trying too hard backfires/ loose routines/ screens are not the enemy/ ways to deal with boredom/ easy summer play ideas
We Didn’t Homeschool, But We Did This Instead.
An Unbusy Childhood/ We Said No So Our Kids Could Rest/ Birthday Party Boundaries/ Quiet Time/ Open Doors and Messy Floors
When Others Question Your Child's Play Time
Permission granted NOT to sign up for that extra enrichment- Your kids are developing the skills they need through simple, unstructured play, so you can let out the breath you are holding.
If Your Kids Won’t Cooperate, It Might Be More About You Than Them
If the tactics you grew up with aren't working, here's what will...
When Your Kid Is the "Only One" Without a Phone
From a mom whose 11yo REALLY wishes she had one. Plus, 10 one-liners for when you already said no.
How to Respond When Others Question Your Child's Play Time
Your child isn't just playing—they're building their brain in ways that matter most. Read this post to learn how to respond when others question this essential part of childhood.
From Chaos to Cooperation: 4 Ways to Get Your Kids to Listen Without Losing Your Mind
Tired of threats and bribes that don't work? Discover four practical strategies to get your children to cooperate without the power struggles. Learn how connecting, respecting their time, involving them in decisions, and seeing things through their eyes can transform your daily parenting struggles into moments of connection.
The 'Manipulative' Child Myth: What Your Child is Really Telling You
Why Your Child's 'Difficult' Behavior Might Be Their Best Attempt to Communicate
Helping Your Young Child Build A Positive Self-Image With Words of Affirmation
Today's blog post discusses the power of words of affirmation in parenting. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and verbalizing positive qualities in our children and how it can build their self-esteem and self-image.
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.
Breaking Free from the "Look, Mommy!" Loop: Building Independent Play Skills
If you have a child who constantly seeks attention and feedback, you might think they’ll never play independently. Try these simple tips…
Building Independence Through Collage
Don't let the word "collage" intimidate you - all you need are some scraps, scissors, and glue to start. The results are worth every minute.
Feeling Like a 'Bad Parent'? Here's Why You're Not - and One Simple Trick to Boost Your Kid's Independence
Feeling Like a 'Bad Parent'? Here's Why You're Not - and One Simple Trick to Boost Your Kid's Independence
Mastering Kid Cooperation: Why Threats and Bribes Fail & Effective Strategies That Work
A few reasons our knee-jerk reactions to getting kids to cooperate won’t work, and what to do instead…
How You Praise Your Child Matters...But Not That Much
Praise is getting a bad rap. Let's talk about it.
Forced Family Fun Day: Why I Insist on Together Time Even When My Teens Don't Want
(a glimpse into parenting teens and my go-to resource)
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.