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.
ALL BLOG POSTS
✸
ALL BLOG POSTS ✸
Search by Category
Fun and Creative Ways to Use Stickers: Ideas for Kids and Adults
Creating with stickers, toddler hacks, and a peek at our collection.
Does Your Child Throw Toys? How To Help Them Stop Throwing and Start Playing
Does your child throw toys and supplies instead of playing? Read for exactly how handle it. Plus, my favorite toddler art supplies.
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!
Supporting Your Child Through Difficult Situations: Phrases to Help Build Resilience
These two phrases will help you and your child through difficult situations.
Unlock the Benefits of Puzzles: Our Favorite Puzzles for Every Age
Discover the FUN and benefits of puzzle-solving for kids with our selection of top picks for puzzles.
The 3 Birthday Traditions Our Family Never Skips: Ideas for Making Birthdays Special
Simple birthday traditions you don’t want to miss
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?
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.