Simple Tools for Joyful Structure

There’s something magical about watching a child lose themselves in the act of creating — the hush that falls as concentration takes over, the tiny tongue poking out in focus, the pure joy of seeing an idea turn into something real. But if you’ve ever found yourself scraping dried glue off the table or wondering…
Evenings with children are often painted in dreamy tones: stories by lamplight, warm baths, cuddles before bed. In reality, many families know the other version: kids bouncing off the walls, squabbles over toothbrushes, cries of “I’m not tired!” and parents counting down the minutes until quiet finally arrives. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.…

There’s something powerful in a story — especially when children see themselves in the pages. During Black History Month, we have a chance not only to remember struggles, but to celebrate joy, innovation, resilience, and voices that more often go unheard. A great way to begin is by reading books together — picture books, narrative…

Every story begins with a spark. Sometimes it’s a funny idea at bedtime, sometimes it’s a craft gone sideways, and sometimes it’s the question a child asks that lingers in your mind. That’s how Bats & Biscuits was born — a curious, slightly spooky, always joyful new picture book for children ages 3–8. I’m excited…

Every printable, every play prompt, every felt character photographed into a storybook begins the same way: with me, a cup of tea growing cold on the table, and two little boys running circles around the house. Hi, I’m Lily Luz — artist, sculptor, children’s book creator, and the hands (and heart) behind Spoon & Sky.…

There’s something special about the moment a book leaves the studio and finds its way into the world. For me, it feels a little like sending a friend off on their first adventure: nerves, pride, and excitement all bundled together. This September, one of those friends is stepping out — or should I say trotting.…

If you’ve ever walked into your child’s room and felt like you accidentally stepped into a toy store that exploded, you’re not alone. Piles of plastic, overflowing bins, and toys that were must-haves last week but now sit untouched — it’s the endless cycle of kid clutter. But here’s the secret: kids don’t need all…

If you’ve ever noticed your child completely absorbed in stacking blocks, twirling around in a cape, or quietly flipping through a book, you’ve witnessed the power of play stations. Play stations are simply zones — small, intentional spaces that encourage kids to dive deep into different types of play. They don’t require fancy playrooms or…

Mornings Don’t Have to Be a Rush of Lost Shoes and Missing Lunchboxes The alarm goes off. Someone yells that they can’t find their left shoe. The cereal box spills across the counter. You glance at the clock, knowing you should have left five minutes ago, but the lunchbox is still empty. By the time…

If you’ve ever tiptoed across the living room and felt the sharp sting of a rogue Lego underfoot, you know the daily chaos of kids and clutter. Toys, crayons, school papers, snack wrappers, costumes, socks (so many socks!) — somehow, they all multiply when we’re not looking. But here’s the thing: organization for kids doesn’t…

If you’ve ever watched your child step outside and transform—shoulders drop, eyes widen, feet start to hop—you already know what the research tells us: even short bursts of outdoor play can reset energy and mood. But most days aren’t built for epic nature walks or elaborate scavenger kits. They’re built for school runs, snack time,…

Helping Kids (and Parents) Build Connection Friendship is one of the sweetest parts of childhood—and one of the most grounding parts of parenting. Whether it’s a child learning to share a swing at school, or a parent finding someone to text after a hard day, friendships give us belonging, laughter, and support. But here’s the…