The holiday season is the time to get into traditions that bring joy to the whole family. One of our favorite traditions is Elf on the Shelf, a fun way to get the kids involved and add some magic to December. Looking for Elf on the Shelf ideas whether they are funny, creative, easy, or last minute? We’ve got you covered.
What Is Elf on the Shelf?
Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas tradition where a small elf doll is placed around the house to “watch” over the kids and report back to Santa. Each night the elf moves to a new spot, and kids wake up to find their elf in a new hiding spot or getting into mischief. This tradition has grown and now there are countless Elf on the Shelf ideas.
Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas
Not every idea takes hours to set up. Here are some simple and quick easy Elf on the Shelf ideas that require minimal effort but maximum fun:
· Elf in a Christmas Stocking – Just pop your elf in a stocking for a cozy hiding spot.
· Elf Hanging from a Curtain Rod – A fun and easy idea that looks like your elf is climbing or swinging.
· Elf in a Cereal Box – Cut a small hole in a cereal box and let the elf peek out for a breakfast surprise.
· Elf Wrapped in Toilet Paper – Wrap the elf in a roll of toilet paper to look like a mummy.
· Elf Reading a Book – Position the elf with a book in hand like they’re reading a bedtime story.
· Elf in a Shoe – Pop the elf in a shoe to surprise the kids when they get dressed.
· Elf Holding a Candy Cane – Let the elf bring a sweet treat to start the day.
· Elf in a Jar – Just place the elf in a jar and they’re good to go.
Last Minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas
Busy parents sometimes need a quick fix. If you forgot to move the elf, here are some last minute Elf on the Shelf ideas to save the day:
· Elf Watching TV – Just plop the elf on the couch with a remote.
· Elf in the Christmas Tree – Tuck the elf in between the branches and you’re done.·
Elf with a Toothbrush – Have the elf sit next to a toothbrush to remind the kids of their morning routine.
· Elf in a Cup – Put the elf in a clear cup and say he got himself stuck overnight.
· Elf using a Tissue Box – Have the elf pretend to be sneezing into the tissues in the morning.
· Elf in a Sock Drawer – Hide the elf in a sock drawer for a morning surprise.
· Elf Making a Paper Snowflake – Leave the elf with scissors and paper to look like he made a snowflake.
Funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas
Make mornings more fun by adding humor to your Elf on the Shelf routine. Try thesefunny Elf on the Shelf ideas:
· Elf on a Toy Dinosaur – Have your elf go on an adventure with a toy dinosaur or stuffed animal.
· Elf making Snow Angels in Flour – Spread flour on the counter and have your elf leave a snow angel.
· Elf playing Video Games – Set up your elf with a game controller next to your gaming console.
· Elf in a Marshmallow Bubble Bath – Fill a small bowl with marshmallows and have your elf take a bath.
· Elf stuck in a Cookie Jar – Leave your elf inside a cookie jar with the lid slightly open like he’s sneaking treats.
· Elf drawing on Bananas – Use a marker to draw funny faces on bananas and have your elf be the artist.
· Elf hung from the Ceiling Fan – Tie your elf to the ceiling fan to look like he went on a daring adventure.
Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids
Since Elf on the Shelf is for kids, these Elf on the Shelf ideas for kids will keep them entertained:
· Elf leaves a Christmas Countdown – Have your elf write a note counting down to Christmas.
· Elf hosting a Tea Party – Set up your elf with toy cups and dolls for a tea party.
· Elf in the Fridge – Put your elf in the fridge next to the milk or eggs.
· Elf drawing on a Mirror – Use an erasable marker to draw on the bathroom mirror.
· Elf with a Candy Cane Scavenger Hunt – Hide candy canes around the house and have your elf leave a note for kids to find them.
· Elf wrapped in a Blanket – Tuck your elf into a doll bed or a small blanket.
· Elf with a Christmas Wish List – Have your elf leave a note for kids to write their wish lists for Santa.
Elf on the Shelf for Adults
The Elf on the Shelf isn’t just for kids! Adults can have fun with it too! Here are some Elf on the Shelf for adults:
· Elf with a Coffee Cup – Place the elf next to the coffee maker with a note that says, “Coffee first!”
· Elf in a Wine Glass – Put the elf in an empty wine glass after a long day of shopping.
· Elf at a Desk – Put the elf next to a laptop with a fake to-do list.
· Elf wrapped in Lights – Tangle the elf in lights as if caught decorating.
· Elf with Remote and Note – Leave a note that says, “Let’s watch Christmas movies!”
· Elf with Takeout Menu – Place the elf next to a menu, implying it’s takeout night.
· Elf with Face Mask – Put a tiny cotton pad on the elf’s face as if it’s having a spa night.
Conclusion
The magic of Elf on the Shelf continues to delight families each year. Whether you need easy Elf on the Shelf ideas, last minute Elf on the Shelf ideas or funny Elf on the Shelf ideas this tradition never gets old. With a little creativity you can make this holiday season even more fun for your family. Start planning your Elf on the Shelf today and create memories to last a lifetime!
FAQs
Easy Elf on the Shelf ideas?
Stocking, cereal box, reading to stuffed animals. Minimal effort, maximum excitement for kids.
Last minute Elf on the Shelf ideas?
Tree, TV remote, cup with a note. 5 seconds to set up.
How do I make Elf on the Shelf fun for older kids?
Puzzles, scavenger hunts, interactive challenges where they have to decode a message or complete a task from the elf.
Unique Elf on the Shelf scenarios?
Zip lining with string, mini office with laptop, elf caught baking cookies in the kitchen.
How do I get my child involved in Elf on the Shelf activities?
Let them write letters to the elf, make small gifts for it, or suggest hiding spots for the next day. They’ll feel part of the fun and the magic won’t die.
