The gingerbread house is an iconic Christmas tradition, and every kid has probably made at least one.  But, gingerbread can do so much more than houses!  If you’re willing to get a little creative, there are lots of fun things you can make with this versatile cookie.

Or, you could switch up the recipe you’re using.  Obviously, you need a sturdy cookie that will hold it’s shape well.  Lebkuchen (lep-kue-gen), a German cookie made with molasses, is a great choice for making houses since it holds it’s shape so well.  This is a great recipe, though you…

Decorating Christmas cookies can be as simple as dipping sugar cookies in melted chocolate, or as involved as piping on complex shapes and patterns in multiple colors.  Regardless of your skill level with a bag of royal icing, give it a try and I promise you’ll be making beautifully decorated cookies in no time.  They make great gifts; just get some pretty ribbon and some clear baggies, and you’ve covered gifts for your kids’ teachers, your yoga instructor, and any unexpected gift-givers that might come knocking at your door.

What kind of cookie dough should I use?
Start with something…

Imagine yourself (with beautifully coiffed hair) and your perfect children cooking happily together in your spotless kitchen; everyone is smiling and the kids aren’t arguing at all.  Alright, now snap out of it!

It might not look exactly like that, but I’m a big advocate of cooking with your kids.  It’s a great way to teach the basics of math and science, and it’s fun to spend time getting your hands dirty together.  Plus, if your kids are picky eaters they’re more likely to eat something that they helped make.

Our friends in the US will be celebrated Thanksgiving in…

Trick-or-treating is a yearly tradition lots of families participate in.  Kids love getting dressed up as their favorite superhero or princess and collecting candy from neighbors.  However, the unfortunate reality is that there are lots of risks out there.  You want to make sure your kids have fun while staying safe on Halloween.

Costumes: keep it sensible
Whether or not your kids are old enough to trick-or-treat without you, it’s important they have a costume that’s safe.  Make sure your child can walk and move freely in her costume, and ensure any masks have large enough eye holes to allow…