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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ALL BLOG POSTS

ALL BLOG POSTS ✸

Parenting Lizzie Assa Parenting Lizzie Assa

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

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Parenting Lizzie Assa Parenting Lizzie Assa

Overscheduled Kids? 10 Must-Ask Questions Before Signing Up for Fall Activities

When my kids were small, I was a SAHM and I did not need childcare. I wanted my kids to be exposed to valuable sports and lessons, but it was more important to me to protect their unscheduled downtime. Leaving as many afternoons open as possible was my goal. At school, they were told when to sit, where to walk, and how to learn. It’s structured down to the minute. At home, I felt that my job was to provide the balance.

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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.

GET TO KNOW ME
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.

CHECK OUT MY FAVORITES