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 ✸

Play, Activities Lizzie Assa Play, Activities Lizzie Assa

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.

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Play Lizzie Assa Play Lizzie Assa

3 Simple Toys to Enhance Your Toddler's Emotional and Social Growth - Tips You Need!

If you have a toddler, you know their emotions can be a whirlwind.  As parents, it's our job to guide them through this complex emotional landscape. Surprisingly, some of the most effective tools for this task are toys you probably already have at home. In this blog post, we'll explore how playdough, stuffed animals, and markers and paper can be transformed into instruments of social and emotional growth for your toddler.

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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