The holiday season is upon us, and for busy moms, that means it's time for the beloved Christmas tradition of Elf on the Shelf. We know how challenging it can be to come up with creative ideas every night, especially when you're juggling work, family, and all the other holiday preparations.
That's why we've put together this list of 45 easy Elf on the Shelf ideas that won't take up too much of your precious time. These simple yet fun ideas will delight your children without adding stress to your already hectic schedule. From elfin bowling adventures to movie nights with popcorn, we've got you covered with quick and entertaining setups.
Let's make this holiday season magical for our little ones without losing our sanity in the process. With these easy Elf on the Shelf ideas, we can keep the wonder alive and still have time for a cup of hot cocoa at the end of the day. Ready to dive in and discover some elf-tastic inspiration?
My annual Elf on the Shelf PSA: The most important thing to remember is that no matter how much or how little you do, your children will believe wholeheartedly in their little friendly elf, and they will absolutely LOVE whatever the elf does. So sit back and enjoy your child(ren) as they welcome this new family tradition. Don't stress over the little things, or try to keep up with the Joneses. You don't want to lose the Christmas spirit.
Plus, in addition to the fun Elf on the Shelf ideas below, check out our free printables to help make your Elf on the Shelf the coolest elf on the block! (Click on the images to download the printables.)
45 Amazingly Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Busy Moms: Quick and Fun Holiday Magic
Getting Started with Elf on the Shelf
Elf on the Shelf has become a beloved Christmas tradition for many families. Let's explore the origins of this magical custom and how it brings joy to children during the holiday season.
Understanding the Christmas Tradition
The Elf on the Shelf is a special Scout Elf sent from the North Pole to help Santa manage his naughty and nice lists. Each night, the elf flies back to the North Pole to report on the day's activities. Upon returning home, the elf perches in a new spot, ready to watch the family's adventures.
We love how this tradition encourages good behavior and adds an element of magic to the Christmas season. Children wake up excited to find where their elf has moved overnight. It's a fun way to countdown to Christmas and create lasting memories.
To get started, we suggest:
- Naming your elf
- Reading the story together
- Explaining the “no touching” rule
- Planning some simple elf antics
The Story Behind the Scout Elf
The Elf on the Shelf tradition began with a children's picture book published in 2005 by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell. Their story brought to life the idea of Santa's helper elves who watch over children and report back to the North Pole.
This charming tale resonated with families, quickly becoming a widespread phenomenon. The Scout Elf serves as a physical embodiment of Christmas magic, fostering imagination and wonder in children.
We find it fascinating how a simple story has grown into a cherished tradition for millions. The Elf on the Shelf has inspired creativity in parents, who come up with clever scenarios for their elves each night.
Creative Arrival Ideas
Welcoming your Elf on the Shelf back for the holiday season is an exciting time for families. Let's explore some imaginative ways to kick off this magical tradition and create unforgettable memories.
Grand Entrances
We love making our elf's arrival a spectacular event. One fun idea is to create a miniature zip line for your elf to “fly” into your home. Simply tie a string between two points and attach your elf with a clothespin.
Another creative entrance involves setting up a tiny “North Pole passport control” desk. Use a small box as the desk, add a tiny sign, and place your elf behind it with a stack of miniature passports.
For a touch of whimsy, try having your elf arrive in a balloon. Tie a small basket to a helium balloon and place your elf inside, letting it float down from the ceiling.
Elves Returning from the North Pole
We can make our elf's journey from the North Pole feel real with some clever staging. Create a mini suitcase for your elf using a small box decorated with stickers from various “destinations” they visited on their way back.
Set up a “welcome home” banner with your elf's name on it. Use colorful paper and string it across a doorway or mantel. Place your elf nearby, looking excited to be back.
For a cozy touch, arrange a tiny sleeping bag or blanket fort for your elf. Add a note explaining they're tired from their long journey and need a quick nap before the fun begins.
First Day Fun
We want to start the season off right with some exciting first-day activities. Have your elf “bake” some cookies by placing them near a toy oven with a tiny rolling pin and mixing bowl.
Create a Christmas movie night scene with your elf. Set up a small TV made from a box, add some popcorn, and position your elf with other toys as the audience.
For a playful twist, stage a snowball fight using cotton balls. Position your elf behind a “fort” made of books or boxes, ready to launch their fluffy ammunition at unsuspecting toy soldiers or other playroom inhabitants.
Our Elf on the Shelf returned on December with a little note for the kids.
Clever and Simple Elf Antics for Busy Parents
We've compiled a delightful array of easy and fun Elf on the Shelf ideas that are sure to bring joy to your little ones this holiday season. These creative setups require minimal effort but deliver maximum smiles!
Stairway Shenanigans: Our mischievous elf loves a good tumble down the stairs. It's a simple yet hilarious scene to set up – just place your elf at the top of the stairs and let gravity do the rest!
Storytime Elf: We love catching our elf sharing his favorite Christmas tales. Simply prop him up with a festive book for an adorable and educational display.
Elf Bowling: Set up a mini bowling alley using small plastic cups as pins and a marble as the ball. Your elf will look right at home in this playful scene.
Fruit Loop Necklace Maker: String some colorful cereal onto thread and let your elf “wear” his creation. It's a crafty idea that's sure to delight!
This. This is the day near tragedy struck. Our poor little elf barely escaped our Boxer’s gripping jaws of death, as he was nearly devoured in an attempt to satisfy her ravenous, uncontrollable appetite.
Ok, maybe it wasn’t quite that dramatic, but our oinker of a pet did grab our little friend in the middle of the night and started eating the Fruit Loop necklace he was making. But no worries, hubs saved the day (and our elf) and relocated him to a much safer place.
Christmas Troublemaker: Uh oh! Someone got himself in a bit of trouble again!
Christmas Tree Climber: We can't help but giggle at the sight of our elf scaling the Christmas tree. Just nestle him among the branches for an adventurous look.
Pony Rider: Have a toy horse? Let your elf take a ride! It's an unexpected and charming setup that requires zero prep.
Hide and Seek: Tuck your elf in among other stuffed toys for a fun game of “Where's Elfie?”
Frozen Fan: Create a miniature scene inspired by popular movies. Our elf loves building tiny snowmen!
Banana Art: Draw funny faces on bananas and position your elf nearby with a marker. It's a fruity and funny surprise.
Candy Cane Sledding: No snow? No problem! A candy cane makes the perfect sled for a resourceful elf.
Paper Bag Race: Set up a little competition with other toys using paper lunch bags. It's a creative use of everyday items.
Toy Soldier Takeover: Have your elf “captured” by toy soldiers for a playful twist on the usual antics.
Parachute Mishap: Craft a small parachute from tissue paper and string, then “snag” it on decorations for a comical failed landing.
Cookie Monster: Place your elf next to an empty cookie jar with crumbs for evidence of his sweet tooth.
Toilet Paper Tree: For a hilarious prank, wrap your Christmas tree in toilet paper with the elf as the culprit.
Bungee Jumping Elf: Suspend your elf from a high point using elastic for a daring stunt.
Rainbow Loom Tangle: If your kids are into bracelet making, tangle your elf in some colorful rubber bands.
Kitchen Helper: Position your elf near baking supplies to make it look like he's lending a hand with holiday treats.
Bubble Bath Bliss: Create a mini spa day for your elf using a small bowl or cup as a tub.
Simple Tricks and Antics
Keeping your Elf on the Shelf fresh and exciting doesn't have to be complicated. We've gathered some playful ideas and quick pranks that are sure to delight your kids without taking up too much of your precious time.
Playful Hide and Seek
Hide and seek is a classic Elf on the Shelf activity that never gets old. We love using common household items to create clever hiding spots. Try tucking your elf into a tissue box with just their feet sticking out. Or, place them in the refrigerator, peeking out from behind the milk carton.
For a fun twist, have your elf “hide” your kids' favorite toys. They'll love searching for both the elf and their missing items. Another easy idea is to have your elf ride in a toy car or sit in a doll's chair, adding a touch of whimsy to their daily appearance.
Easy and Quick Elf Pranks
Elf antics can be simple yet hilarious. We recommend using everyday objects to create amusing scenarios. Try wrapping the toilet in gift wrap, leaving a note from the elf claiming it's a “present.” Or, draw funny faces on bananas with a marker – your elf can take credit for the silly fruit art.
Another quick prank is to turn a few items upside down – like books on a shelf or framed photos. Your elf can leave a note saying they were practicing their acrobatics. For a mess-free option, have your elf build a fort using playing cards or stack cups into a pyramid. These setups take just minutes but will surely bring smiles to your children's faces.
Elf on the Shelf for the Busy Mom
Busy moms can still enjoy the magic of Elf on the Shelf without adding stress to their hectic schedules. We've gathered some time-saving ideas and preparation tips to make this holiday tradition fun and manageable.
Time-Saving Ideas
For quick and easy setups, try simple Elf on the Shelf ideas that require minimal effort. Have your elf “read” a Christmas story to other toys. This takes seconds to arrange and promotes literacy.
Another speedy option is elf bowling. Set up a few toilet paper rolls as pins and position your elf with a small ball. It's a cute scene that takes just moments to create.
For a last-minute idea, place your elf in a bag of holiday candy or chocolate. This setup is not only fast but also uses items you likely already have on hand.
Consider having your elf write messages on the bathroom mirror with dry-erase markers. It's quick, easy to clean, and adds a personal touch to your elf's visit.
Preparation Tips
Planning ahead can make Elf on the Shelf much more manageable for busy moms. Create a simple calendar with ideas for each day of December. This eliminates daily brainstorming and saves precious time.
Stock up on props and supplies in advance. Keep a dedicated “elf box” with items like cotton balls, mini candy canes, and small toys. Having everything in one place makes nightly setups much faster.
Prepare some scenes in advance when you have a few spare moments. Take photos of these setups to recreate quickly on busy nights.
Involve older children in planning and setting up elf scenarios. It can be a fun bonding activity and takes some pressure off mom.
Promoting Good Behavior
The Elf on the Shelf tradition offers a fun way to encourage good behavior and kindness in children during the holiday season. We can use our elves to model positive actions and reward kids for their own good deeds.
Kindness and Good Deeds
Our elves can inspire kids to spread joy through acts of kindness. We might have the elf leave a note suggesting the child do a good deed, like helping a sibling or writing a thank you card. Another idea is to set up the elf “donating” toy cars to spark a conversation about giving to those in need.
We can create funny Elf on the Shelf ideas that promote helpfulness. For example, we might pose the elf “cleaning” with a tiny duster to encourage kids to tidy up. Or we could have the elf leave small slips of paper with kind messages for family members to find.
Rewarding Positive Actions
Our elves can also acknowledge and celebrate children's good behavior. We might have the elf bring small treats or stickers when kids have been especially well-behaved. Another idea is to set up a “kindness jar” where the elf adds a pom-pom each time the child does something nice.
We can use the elf to leave notes praising specific positive actions. For instance, “I saw you share your toys with your sister yesterday. That was so kind!” This reinforces good behavior in a personal way. Some parents even have their elf bring small gifts on Christmas Eve as a final reward for a season of good behavior.
Fun and Educational Activities
Incorporating learning into Elf on the Shelf antics can make the holiday tradition even more engaging for kids. We've come up with creative ways to blend education and entertainment, ensuring your little ones have a blast while developing new skills.
Scavenger Hunts
Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunts are a fantastic way to keep kids entertained and learning. We love setting up themed hunts based on different subjects. For math, we hide numbered ornaments around the house, challenging kids to find and add them up. Science hunts involve gathering household items for simple experiments.
Language arts scavenger hunts can include finding words that rhyme or start with specific letters. We also create geography hunts, hiding small flags or landmarks for kids to locate and identify. These hunts not only occupy children but also reinforce academic concepts in a fun, festive way.
Creative Crafts
Elf-inspired crafts offer a perfect opportunity for hands-on learning. We encourage making elf-sized books where kids can practice writing and storytelling. Creating mini art galleries with the elf as the curator helps develop fine motor skills and artistic expression.
We love setting up craft stations where the elf “teaches” kids to make ornaments from recycled materials, combining creativity with environmental awareness. Elf-themed Christmas coloring pages can be used for color recognition activities or as templates for cut-and-paste projects that enhance scissor skills.
Elf-Themed Learning
Turning everyday lessons into elf adventures makes learning exciting. We use the elf to introduce new vocabulary by leaving word-of-the-day notes. Math becomes more engaging when the elf poses as a shopkeeper, encouraging kids to practice counting and basic arithmetic with pretend money.
For science, we set up simple experiments that the elf “conducts” overnight, like growing crystals or demonstrating static electricity. Reading comprehension improves as children follow written clues left by the elf. These activities transform routine learning into magical Christmas games for kids, making education a joyful part of the holiday season.
Quick Snacktime Surprises
Elf on the Shelf antics can involve festive treats that delight both kids and adults. These simple snack ideas add a touch of magic to your holiday season without requiring much time or effort.
Elf-Approved Snacks
We love creating fun, elf-sized snacks that bring smiles to our little ones' faces. Try setting up your elf with a tiny stack of chocolate chip pancakes made from mini cookies. Another easy idea is to have your elf “roasting” mini marshmallows over a tea light candle.
For a quick breakfast surprise, arrange cheerios or fruit loops to spell out “Hi” from the elf. We've found that using small treats like M&Ms or Hershey's Kisses to create elf footprints leading to a special snack is always a hit.
Don't forget about drinks! Set up your elf with a straw in a small cup of milk or hot chocolate. These simple touches make ordinary snacks feel magical during the holiday season.
Healthy and Easy Treats
We know how important it is to balance out holiday sweets with some healthier options. Cut apple slices into star shapes and have your elf present them as “Christmas stars.” Another fun idea is to create a “snowman” using stacked clementine segments with raisin eyes and a carrot nose.
For a festive touch, arrange green grapes in a triangle shape to form a Christmas tree, with the elf perched on top. We love using red and green bell pepper slices to make a “veggie wreath” with the elf sitting in the center.
These quick and easy ideas keep the Elf on the Shelf tradition fun without adding stress to busy moms' schedules. They also encourage kids to enjoy healthier snacks during the excitement of the holiday season.
Weekend Adventures with Your Elf
Weekends offer the perfect opportunity to create magical memories with your Elf on the Shelf. We've got some fantastic ideas to make the most of your free time and bring joy to the whole family during the Christmas season.
Outdoor Elf Fun
Let's take our Elf outside for some winter wonderland adventures! We can set up a mini snowman-building station with your Elf as the supervisor. It's a great way to enjoy the snowy weather while creating holiday memories.
For a fun photo op, we can position our Elf on a sled or toboggan, ready for a thrilling ride down a snowy hill. Don't forget to dress your Elf in tiny winter gear for added cuteness!
If there's no snow, we can still have outdoor fun. How about a scavenger hunt in the backyard with your Elf leaving clues? It's a fantastic way to get the kids moving and exploring.
Themed Weekend Ideas
Themed weekends are a great way to keep the Elf excitement going. We can start with a “Baking Bonanza” where our Elf oversees cookie decorating or gingerbread house building. It's messy but oh-so-fun!
For movie lovers, we can set up an “Elf Cinema” with your Elf as the projectionist. Arrange some comfy pillows, prepare some popcorn, and enjoy a family Christmas movie marathon.
A “North Pole Workshop” theme is perfect for crafty families. Set up a craft station with your Elf surrounded by supplies to make ornaments or Christmas cards. It's a wonderful way to create handmade gifts and decorations.
Always reminding us of the true meaning of Christmas, elf found one of our favorite Christmas books titled ‘Who Is Coming To Our House?’
Today is one of our favorite family traditions when our elf brings a special video message from Santa himself to our children. We love to watch their faces light up as Santa speaks to each of them individually.
Our elf is taking one last flying adventure before heading home to the North Pole tomorrow. I hope you enjoy the flight and remember to keep your buckle on at all times!
Today was a special day for the elf as he got to go to 2nd grade with our boys for holiday tradition sharing/show and tell. Thank goodness he came prepared so the boys could carry him and still not touch him.
Kids, don’t try this at home! We found our elf roasting marshmallows by the fire. The marshmallows didn’t last long between our youngest little one and the dog.
Being the character he is, our little elf thought it would be fun to play cowboy and ride our peacock. Or would that make him a bird boy?
Looks like our little daredevil thought it would be fun to repel down the side of the big boys' bunk beds. Be careful Tiny George, don’t miss a step!
There’s nothing more relaxing than a slow train ride around a glowing Christmas tree, as our elf found out today.
This week started out quiet until our little elf challenged Santa Hello Kitty to a snowball fight. Thank goodness marshmallows don’t melt.
Our little elf is such a stinker! He overheard the boys say ‘I hope he doesn’t climb in our Lego house! Then we won’t be able to play Legos!’, and that is just what he did. Though it looks like he upset the locals at the same time.
Everyone was worried our little elf would get hurt zip lining through the house. Thankfully he didn’t.
Just like me, our elf loves to get his craft on!
Today was a special day for our elf. He brought a special letter from Santa to our children to let them know he would be waiting for them at the North Pole when they rode the Polar Express tonight. You can still grab this FREE printable letter from Santa here.
After such a busy day preparing for the Polar Express yesterday, our little elf took it easy and relaxed at our Cathedral today.
Our little Elf on the Shelf showed up on December with a little note for our children reminding them of the Elf on the Shelf ‘rules’. This adorable FREE printable is available here.
Our Elf on the Shelf thought he’d hide from the boys today and the boys could not find him. Thankfully mom and dad happened to get a glimpse of him to give the boys a few hints on where to find him.
Tiny George got his craft on today and made a set of photo ornaments for us with glass baubles, tinsel garland and our favorite photos of our children.
Yee Haw!!!!! Tiny George and Woody took a ride around the house on the kids wooden horse.
Oh no! Tiny George caught the nasty bug that had cursed our house just days before Christmas. I hope he feels better in time for Christmas.
Mitch loved this Dino-mite parade under our tree.
On our Elf on the Shelf’s last night with us, he left a note for the kids thanking them for letting him be a part of our family’s lives (and reminding them to leave cookies and milk for Santa!).
It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Super Elf!!!!
Tiny George having a swinging good time. The boys thought for sure he was going to get burned by the lights. lol!
Not my new pictures!!! Looks like our little friend had a little fun with the new portraits of our children. That elf graffiti better come off!!! (Thankfully the elf used dry erase markers so the ink wipes off effortlessly.)
This was the day our boys have been looking forward to all month. Tiny George brought a personalized video message for all of our boys letting them know if they were on the nice or naughty list, and how they can keep (or get back on) the nice list before Christmas comes.
Today was a hectic day so Tiny just hopped up on one of our many roosters for a ride around the house. Giddy up cowboy George!
Our little children had a rough day today so Tiny George thought it would be good to remind the boys of Santa’s rules if they wanted to continue to be on the nice list. Good news..it worked! (If only they listened to me as well as they do the elf.)
Bombardier Tiny George to the rescue. Where ever the bad guys are, Tiny George will fly by and save the day.
Storytime with the elf was a big hit. The boys loved how Tiny George invited all their friends to read a book about the true meaning of Christmas.
The force was with Tiny George as he fought the dark side this night.
Looks like someone had a flashback to their high school years of tee-peeing. I wonder who’s going to clean up this mess?
Today was a beautiful day to go finishing, which is what our little elf decided to do.
Looks like our little elf will be staying with us for a while. He built himself a new house last night out of chocolate wafers and frosting.
Tiny George had a great time making a snow angel out of sugar and coconut. He even built a snowman out of marshmallows!
Uh oh! Tiny George decided to have a little fun with our boys by trapping them in their room…UNTIL CHRISTMAS!!! I wasn’t going to be the one to disobey our elf and let them out.
The kids loved the special message Tiny George brought back from the North Pole from Santa. The kids spent the day before with Santa and were so happy Santa remembered their special visit.
Our elf, Tiny George, arrived last Saturday with a special note (and treat) for our children. All they had to do was solve the riddle ‘What’s soft and round with a hole in the middle?’ to find what special treat (doughnuts) the elf brought for them to eat for breakfast.
Here's a quick list of more easy ideas:
- Elf zip-lining across the room
- Writing a message on the bathroom mirror
- Making snow angels in spilled flour
- Fishing for Goldfish crackers in a bowl
- Having a tea party with other toys
- Leaving tiny footprints in powdered sugar
- Wrapping the TV remote in gift wrap
- Decorating a tiny Christmas tree
- Playing cards with other toys
- Roasting “marshmallows” over a candle
Elf Retirement
As the holiday season winds down, it's time to bid farewell to our mischievous Elf on the Shelf friend. We've gathered some creative ideas to make this transition special for the whole family.
Farewell Ideas
We can ease our children into the elf's departure with thoughtful gestures. One idea is to have the elf leave a heartfelt letter expressing gratitude for the family's hospitality. The note could mention looking forward to next year's visit.
Another option is to stage a “packing scene” where the elf surrounds itself with tiny suitcases and North Pole-bound tickets. This visual cue helps kids understand it's time for the elf to return home.
We might also consider having the elf leave small gifts for each family member. These could be simple items like candy canes or handmade ornaments, serving as mementos of the elf's stay.
Last Day Celebration
To mark the end of our elf's visit, we can plan a special send-off. A fun idea is to organize an “Elf Appreciation Day” with elf-themed snacks and activities. We could bake cookies shaped like elves or create elf-inspired crafts together.
Another option is to take family photos with the elf, capturing final memories before saying goodbye. These pictures can become part of our holiday scrapbook or yearly traditions.
We might also consider hosting a small “goodbye party” where family members share their favorite elf moments from the season. This celebration can help bring closure to this cherished holiday tradition while building excitement for next year's visit.
New Twists on Elf on the Shelf
The Elf on the Shelf tradition continues to evolve, bringing fresh excitement to kids and making holiday magic easier for busy parents. Creative adaptations keep this festive custom feeling new and engaging year after year.
Innovative Elf Ideas
Let's shake things up with some clever and easy Elf on the Shelf ideas that will delight our little ones. We can have our elf take a “balloon bath” by surrounding it with colorful balloons in the bathtub. This creates a fun, visual surprise that's quick to set up.
For a touch of sweetness, we might arrange our elf in a “candy cane forest” using candy canes stuck in a foam block. It's a simple yet magical scene that captures the spirit of the season.
We can also embrace technology by setting up our elf for a pretend video call with Santa. Just prop the elf near a tablet or phone with Santa's image on screen. This modern twist combines holiday tradition with today's tech-savvy kids' interests.
For a cozy scene, we could tuck our elf into a tissue box “bed” with a small blanket. It's an adorable setup that takes just moments to create but will surely bring smiles.
These fresh ideas keep the Elf on the Shelf tradition fun and exciting without demanding too much of our time. We're creating lasting memories and spreading holiday cheer with each creative scenario.
Check out all our elf fun:
- 45+ Amazingly Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Busy Moms
- Fun Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids
- Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Christmas
- He’s Back! The Elf on the Shelf Returns
- The Elf on the Shelf A Christmas Tradition Book Review
- Goodbye Letter from the Elf on a Shelf
- Even More Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids
- More Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids
- Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids
- Free Elf on the Shelf Printable
- Even More Creative and Fun Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids
- More Creative and Fun Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Kids
- Creative and Fun Elf on the Shelf Ideas