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 Expert Tips to Ease Preschool Drop-Off Anxiety: Building Confidence Together
Ease preschool drop-off anxiety with these 5 expert tips. Learn how to build your child's confidence, foster resilience, and create a smoother transition into school with simple, effective strategies that encourage emotional preparedness.
6 Reasons to Start Playing More Board Games as a Family
Looking for some new board games to play as a family?
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.
How to Make Playdough at Home and Teach Your Kids to Play with It Independently: A Step-by-Step Guide
All things play dough: Recipe, Where to Buy, Why it is a great tool for learning
3 Fun and Engaging Activities to Calm Tired and Cranky Kids
Three easy activities you can pull off when you are both exhausted and need a break.
Creating Without Directions: The Value of Process Art for Children
Simple activity for the whole family to enjoy. Takes only minutes to set up.
Fun and Creative Ways to Use Stickers: Ideas for Kids and Adults
Creating with stickers, toddler hacks, and a peek at our collection.
How to Use Narration to Boost Your Child’s Independent Play Skills
Sometimes when we ask questions while our kids are busy at play, we unintentionally insert our own ideas and the magic of independent play doesn't fully come to life. Here’s what you can do instead!
Getting Messy: How Indoor Messy Play Supports Healthy Child Development and 5 Tips for Managing the Aftermath
Getting messy is vital to healthy child development. As the weather gets colder, and we can’t take the mess outside, I want to make sure you feel prepared to get messy inside AND deal with the aftermath.
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!
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.
Five Busy Bags Guaranteed To Keep Kids Occupied on the Go
Make these quick and easy busy bags to keep your kids busy when you are at a restaurant, waiting at the doctor, or anywhere!
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!
Parenting strategist, educator + momHi! I’m Lizzie Assa, and I’m not here to fix your kid.
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.
Curated Guides for Home, Play & ParentingToys, tools, travel picks, and gift ideas by age.
(All in one spot.)
These are all the things we’ve used, loved, and shared over the years— organized to make your life easier, not more overwhelming. 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 (+ joy) to everyday play.