Sweet Tradition Spreads Joy -The PreK Gingerbread Houses

The holidays around our campus are filled with rich traditions. Much like in your own family, our St. Agnes and St. Dominic Christmas traditions have evolved over time. Though some may look different from year to year, these traditions are an important part of our story. They bring us joy. They strengthen our community, connect generations of students, and remind us we are each part of something unique and special. 

New traditions have been added as our community has grown, like the PK2 Cocoa and the celebration of Las Posadas, while some other traditions have truly stood the test of time. Our St. Dominic Christmas pageant dates back at least 45 years, and one of our favorites-the Pre-Kindergarten Gingerbread Houses, has been a memory maker for 27 years. Soon we will have Pre-K parents who made a Gingerbread House as Pre-K students themselves!

In 1995 beloved Pre-K teacher Kathi Davidson (Ms. Kathi!), introduced this sweet activity to our campus. “I started this tradition when I was student teaching in 1977 and brought it to SAA-SDS in 1995,” said Ms. Kathi.  “I love watching the children and parents working together and relaxing at this crazy time of year.  The kids love their houses and are so proud! As many houses as I have seen over the years, the children still find ways to make them unique in their own little ways.”

Many families have experienced the joy of gingerbread houses with multiple children. Forsyth Whittington has made treasured memories with three daughters, Mallory (SAA 2026), Meredith (SAA 2030), and this year with Townes (SAA 2037). Mrs. Whittington shared, “Throughout the years, one of my favorite Christmas traditions at St. Agnes has been our Gingerbread House Day in Pre-K.  Whether they couldn’t sit still and ate all the candy while I decorated, or diligently sat and decorated every inch of their house, I have treasured memories from this day with all three of my girls. It is a special opportunity to carve out some time during the busy season to have a little fun with your child. Ms. Kathi and Ms. Sarah are amazing and made the process so easy for the parents to enjoy!” 

Ms. Kathi recognizes the importance of these shared moments. “It is a time for the parents to just enjoy their child and make something they will never forget.  It is hard to believe that a milk carton, frosting and some candy can make these wonderful houses and memories.”

None of us want to admit how long those gingerbread houses stayed in our homes before they finally had to be tossed—definitely weeks more than they should have! The good news is the memories will last far longer than the confectionary creations!