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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Strategies for Managing Sensory Overload as an Adult
Sensory overload? This post is for you.
Winter Books for Kids: Fun Reads for Cold Weather Days
Do you need some new books to add to your seasonal rotation? Here are a few of my favorites to bring out during the cold winter months.
5 Simple Strategies for Less Family Stress
Aiming for perfection in parenting is a myth. Struggle means you and your child are growing and learning. Embrace the messy parts and remember that the hard parts are often our teachers.
Easing Your Child Into School Mode: How to Avoid the Sunday Scaries After Vacation
Got a case of the Sunday Scaries - post vacation? Try these prompts to help ease back into your normal routine.
5 Tips for Encouraging Kids to Play Outside in Cold Weather
With a little preparation and some encouragement, you can help your kids enjoy the great outdoors all year round.
Simple Ways to Support Independence in Young Children
Simple reframes for supporting independence.
Does Your Child Run Away From You When It's Time to Leave?
Does your child run away when it is time to go?
The Best Lunchboxes for Kids
I’ve been making school lunches for ten years! Read on for my favorite lunch boxes and accessories. Plus- 5 tips top make lunchtime easier for your kids and you.
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!
Mental Health Days for Kids
All the details on how our family implements mental health days.
Teacher Appreciation Gift Guide
The ultimate gift guide for those special teachers in your lives!
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.