It’s that time of year again – the time when the Elf on the Shelf makes his grand entrance into homes across the country! Kids love the magic and mischief that comes along with having a mischievous elf in their midst, and parents love the opportunity to have a little fun and get creative with their elf positioning! Whether you’re an old pro or brand new to the phenomenon, we’ve got 10 amazing Elf on the Shelf ideas to help you celebrate the season in style.
- The Classic Elf Arrival
Starting off with a classic – the arrival of your Elf on the Shelf! This tried-and-true approach is a great way to kick off the holiday season with your little ones. Simply place your elf in a prominent location (such as the mantle or a favorite holiday decoration) with a special note or message. Use this as an opportunity to set the tone for the season, and let your kids know that their elf is here – and watching!
- Elf on the Shelf Jokes
Everyone loves a good joke, and your elf is no exception! Print out a sheet of Elf on the Shelf jokes (there are tons available online), and place them around the house for your kids to discover. They’ll love reading the jokes and trying to find their mischievous elf!
- Elf on the Shelf Tic Tac Toe
Create a fun game that your kids can play with their elf! Use a piece of poster board to create a tic tac toe board, and cut out pieces that your elf can move around. Place the board in a prominent location (such as the living room or kitchen), and let your kids know that they can play a game with their elf whenever they’d like!
- Elf on the Shelf Snow Angels
If you live in a colder climate, take advantage of the snow and have your elf make snow angels! Simply sprinkle some flour or powdered sugar on a table or counter, and place your elf in the middle. The result will be a cute and unexpected scene that your kids will love!
- Elf on the Shelf Cookie Party
Who doesn’t love cookies – especially around the holidays? Your elf is no exception! Create a mini-cookie party for your elf using mini cookies, frosting, and sprinkles. Keep the supplies nearby, and let your kids know that their elf is ready to party!
- Elf on the Shelf Elf-tastic Breakfast
Brian Flakes? Candy Cane Toast? Santa’s Special Cereal? The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating an Elf-tastic breakfast for your little ones! Get creative with food coloring, sprinkles, and fun-shaped cookie cutters to create a one-of-a-kind breakfast that your kids won’t soon forget!
- Elf on the Shelf DIY Snow Globe
Your elf doesn’t always have to be present to spread some holiday cheer! Create a DIY snow globe that your kids can enjoy all season long. Simply fill a jar with water, glitter, and any small trinkets that you’d like (such as mini Christmas trees or snowmen). Then, add a photo of your elf to the inside of the lid. Your kids will love shaking up their snow globe and watching their elf make his way around the scene!
- Elf on the Shelf Superhero Academy
Your elf is always looking for ways to learn and grow – why not enroll him in Superhero Academy? Create a fun obstacle course using household items (such as pillows, chairs, and hula hoops), and have your elf make his way through. You can even create a fun certificate to celebrate your elf’s graduation from Superhero Academy!
- Elf on the Shelf Christmas Countdown
Get your kids excited for the big day with a Christmas countdown featuring their favorite elf! Print out a special calendar and have your elf move to a new location each day. Your kids will love watching their elf get closer and closer to the big day!
- Elf on the Shelf Santa’s Workshop
Your elf is part of Santa’s team, so why not have him build his own workshop? Use cardboard boxes, wrapping paper, and other household items to create a DIY workshop for your elf. Add in some mini tools and other supplies, and you’ll have a fun scene that your kids will love!
Whether you’re brand new to the Elf on the Shelf craze, or a seasoned pro looking for some creative new ideas, these 10 activities are sure to help you get the most out of your beloved elf. So grab some hot cocoa, get cozy with your kids, and let the holiday spirit take over!
