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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Less Toys, More Play (And Why I Struggled With This Year's Holiday Gift Guide)
The Gift Guide I Almost Didn't Create And Why Less Really is More
Turning Busy Days into Playful Moments: Toddler-Friendly Tips for the Holidays
How to turn your whining toddler into a playful toddler when you are hustling to get it all done.
Creating Play Spaces: A Guide to Encouraging Independent Play at Home
Three tips for more independent play at home
4 Ways Your Kids Can Give Back This Holiday Season (And All Year Round)
How to raise kids who give back
Stress-Free Holiday Cookie Decorating
A holiday cookie decorating hack to last you all year long.
Christmas Playdough Tray and Playdough Recipe
Simple Holiday Playdough Tray and Playdough Recipe
How to Handle Kids' Shopping Demands: Holiday Edition
If your child is constantly asking for things this holiday season, you are not alone! I’ve got a few strategies for you when it comes to responding to your kids when they are asking for EVERYTHING!
One Phrase That Will Transform Your Holidays With Kids
"You really wished you had that too.” Sound simple? This phrase is about to become your go-to, especially when the kids' presents are being flaunted, and feelings of envy start bubbling up.
How to Teach Your Child Gracious Gift Receiving: A Simple Guide
We've all been there: Your child rips open a gift, and the look on their face says it all – it's not what they were hoping for. Read here for some strategies to gracefully navigate these all-too-common situations
8 Kid-Friendly Tips for Stress-Free Thanksgiving Hosting
Hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be a daunting task, especially when you have little ones to consider. But with some creative planning, you can make the holiday enjoyable for guests of all ages, including YOU!
Narrating Play: Boost Your Child's Growth & Independence
Sometimes playing with your baby can feel daunting. Here’s a way to play that will not only boost development but also build the foundation for independent play later on. (plus our favorite play for baby!)
Halloween Rice Krispie Treats Simplified
Simple spooky treats for Halloween. Tips on how to decorate without the fuss.
5 Ways to Enhance Your Child's Decision-Making Skills
Children learn how to make decisions by making decisions, not by being told what to do. Click to learn why decision-making skills matter for your child.
5 ways play helps children develop a strong sense of self
Free play is a crucial aspect of childhood that significantly contributes to a child's development of a strong sense of self. Plus, it’s free! And pretty low-lift for us busy parents.
Here they come… I saw one, and then, like an avalanche, my inbox flooded.
when does school even start/ button fly jeans and a pee your pants moment/ /the best canvas kicks for your littles/ our 2024 BTS roundup/ what to do instead of teaching the ABCs
How to Host a Playdate at Home
Playdates are an important way to support your child’s socialization. Don’t miss these tips on how to make them run smoothly.
Introducing Toddlers to Chores: 5 Tips for a Smooth Start
Starting chores early with toddlers can instill a sense of responsibility and help them develop essential life skills. Click here for three tips to introduce chores to toddlers effectively.
The Magic of "Alone Dates": The Essential Bonding Time Every Child Needs
Being together as a family is a beautiful mosaic of laughter, chaos, messiness, and even occasional bickering. But sometimes, amidst the shared moments, the individuality of each child needs to shine.
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.