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.
ALL BLOG POSTS
✸
ALL BLOG POSTS ✸
Search by Category
Teaching Independent Play: How to Help Your Child Who Needs Constant Feedback
If you have a child who constantly seeks attention and feedback, you might think they’ll never play independently. But rest assured, all children can learn to play independently. It may just take a little extra effort and patience on your part.
Nurturing Self-Directed Play: How to Inspire Your Child's Independence
Learn how to nurture your child's self-directed play with these practical strategies. From observing their interests to creating engaging play invitations, discover how to support your 2-8 year old's independent play skills at home and outdoors.
Cornstarch and Water for Easy Sensory Play
Oobleck is great for kids because it provides a hands-on sensory experience that encourages exploration of non-Newtonian fluids, fostering curiosity and fine motor skills development. Find out the details here.
5 Ways to Reuse Your Child's Artwork
What to do with all that art work, plus our fave art supplies for summer!
Birthday Party Survival Guide for Parents of Preschoolers
Tips for navigating birthday parties and the ultimate birthday party gift guide by age
Fostering Trust Through Independent Play
As a fellow parent and a play expert, I've learned that one of the most valuable gifts we can give our children (and ourselves) is the freedom to play independently. This not only sparks their creativity and decision-making skills but also builds their confidence and trust in their own abilities.
5 Chores Your Kids Can Start Doing Today
Ever wondered what kind of chores are meant for your child’s age? Check out today’s post for a breakdown on all things chores!
8 Fun & Easy Spring Activities for Kids and Tired Parents
Looking for some simple, engaging outdoor activities to bridge the post-nap to dinner gap?
2024 Mother's Day Gift Guide
Ultimate Mother's Day Gift Guide: I’ve curated the perfect gift guide for any special woman in your life!
Turning Boredom into Play: Easy Ways to Spark Your Child's Creativity
When your child complains of boredom, it's not a lack of ideas, but rather a need for skills, resources, confidence, and clear play boundaries. Try these tips!
Rough & Tumble Play: Why It's Vital for Kids and How to Guide It Safely
Research shows that rough-and-tumble play helps kids learn to regulate and manage emotions… How to manage when things get too rough.
The Magic Pause: A Tip for Raising Independent Kids
This one tip can help you raise independent kids.
Is Your Child Ready for a Successful Quiet Time Today?
Have you ever noticed that despite a solid routine, there are just some days when you know your child is not going to have a successful quiet time? There’s a good reason and it is completely solvable.
Your Ultimate Checklist: How to Prepare for Kid-Friendly Travel
Traveling with kids? This post is for you.
How Ten Minutes Can Impact Your Child’s Whole Day
What if I told you that there was a SMALL thing you could do right now that would make a MASSIVE difference in how the day goes for your child and you?
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.
Parenting strategist, educator + mom
Hi! 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 & Parenting
Toys, 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.

