Letting Kids Be Bored (Without Feeling Like a Bad Parent) with Lizzie Assa

 
 
 
 

What do you do when your child says, “I’m bored” — and why does that moment feel so hard?

In this episode of Play on Words, Beth Gaskill sits down with Lizzie Assa (@theworkspaceforchildren), early childhood educator, parenting strategist, and founder of The Workspace for Children, to talk about her upcoming book But I’m Bored! https://amzn.to/3NaKnHl

Together, they explore why boredom isn’t something parents need to fix, how independent play builds confidence and creativity, and what it actually looks like to step back without guilt. This conversation is practical, research-aligned, and grounded in real life — not perfection or Pinterest setups.

If you’ve ever felt pressure to constantly entertain your child, this episode offers permission (and tools) to do things differently.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

•    Why “I’m bored” is an opportunity, not a problem

•    What independent play really means (and what it doesn’t)

•    How to support play without over-directing or hovering

•    Why stepping back helps kids — and parents — thrive

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Kelly Etz

Kelly Etz is a graphic designer, writer, and fisherman sweater enthusiast based in Chicago. She gets her best work done after 1am and spends too much money on fancy shampoo.

https://www.instagram.com/ketzdesign/
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