One of our Solstice Calendar activities was to make a gingerbread house. Making a gingerbread house is normally a very involved activity, and I just didn’t think I had it it me. So, instead, we opted for one crafted out of graham crackers. The kids decided it would be much more fun to make a castle. We headed to the store and found supplies to fit in the set budget. Their grand plans were a bit waylaid by my energy level. They had to purchase the items at the grocery store rather than us driving to the mall, battling the crowds, and going to the bulk candy store so that they could purchase tiny amounts of a wider variety. Here are pictures of the final result:
I think it turned out quite well for a cooperative effort, from start to finish, between an eight year old, a six year old, and a three year old. They had a lot of fun making it. The next day we were (I was) rushing, trying to get everyone ready so we could leave for an activity on time. I suggested they grab a castle wall, dunk it in milk and eat it for breakfast. I think I got some cool mom points for that.
living peacefully with children 
I LOVE this idea! I don’t like ginger cookies anyway, so this would be a great, easy alternative and so much cheaper than those kits to be sure! Did you purchase icing or make it?
I made icing. It only takes a minute or two and much less expensive (and much tastier without the extra ingredients).