Gingerbread houses

Last week-end some girlfriends and I got together for brunch and to make gingerbread houses. I figured my 3-year-old would love it so I added as much stuff to the house as I possibly could to make it more interesting for her.

Last week-end some girlfriends and I got together for brunch and to make gingerbread houses. I figured my 3-year-old would love it so I added as much stuff to the house as I possibly could to make it more interesting for her.

I added gumdrops both large and small, red hots, m&m’s, candy bar doors, gum balls, candy canes, gingerbread people and gingerbread trees. There wasn’t a space left to add anything else.

Proudly I brought it home. My daughter was so excited when I said it was for her. I set it up on the buffet in the dining room so we could all enjoy it. And did what Moms do – I said don’t touch.

Then I had an moment of why not. Is it permanent no. Who did I make it for anyway. It’s not Grandmother’s fine china. So I decided it was her house and told her to touch it all she wants. She’s been gentle but so far some things have come loose.

Yes, it doesn’t look as good as it did when I brought it home but is she having more fun YES.

I’m not saying let your kids ruin things but pick your battles. Touch is very important to them. Select ornaments they can handle, give them their own holiday decorations to dress up the house or their room.