Best Elf on the Shelf ideas for kids
Elf on the Shelf has become a beloved family tradition, bringing a little extra magic each December morning. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to level up your elf game, this guide has creative and easy ideas to make every day special for your little ones.
One of my favorite memories from our Elf on the Shelf adventures happened a few years ago, when our elf—affectionately named Jinxy by my sons—decided to set up camp in the fridge. I had propped him up next to the milk with a tiny scarf and a mini marshmallow “snowball.” The boys opened the fridge that morning and burst into laughter, convinced Jinxy was trying to cool off after a busy night reporting to Santa.
Another time, Jinxy got into some trouble by unrolling an entire roll of toilet paper down the stairs. My younger son was so amused that he asked if Jinxy could come back the next night for more “pranks.”
It’s these little moments—seeing the pure joy on their faces—that remind me why we keep up the tradition, even on the nights when I forget to move him and have to get creative with an excuse!
Table of contents
Why Elf on the Shelf is a magical holiday tradition
The Elf on the Shelf tradition involves bringing Santa’s little helper into your home to check in on the kids and report back each night. Each morning, the elf reappears in a new spot—often in a silly or mischievous pose—adding excitement and a little holiday magic to the kids’ routine. Over the years, families have added their own creative spins to make the tradition even more memorable.
Easy Elf on the Shelf ideas for beginners
Just starting out? Keep it simple! The magic comes from the elf’s nightly “adventures,” so even small moves can bring big smiles.
- For a classic and quick idea, set the elf somewhere easy to spot, like the fireplace mantel or in the Christmas tree.
- Place the elf near the bathroom sink with a toothbrush or “bubble bath” made of cotton balls.
- Position the elf with some of the kids’ toys for an easy but fun surprise.
Simple setups can still create big memories—no need to overcomplicate your Elf ideas. Here are some more easy Elf on the Shelf ideas:
Grab free Elf on the Shelf Cutout Printables (reindeer, Santa, penguin, and snowman) here.
Your Elf on the Shelf is up to some sweet mischief—leaving a trail of Hershey’s Kisses on a toilet paper roll for a laugh everyone will remember!
Your Elf on the Shelf is taking holiday hijinks to new heights—swinging from a clothes hanger on the ceiling fan like the acrobat they are!
Your Elf on the Shelf is spreading cheer in the bathroom—leaving a toothpaste smiley face on the sink to brighten everyone’s day!
Your Elf on the Shelf has a frosty sense of humor—showing off a “melted snowman” in a cup, complete with eyes and a carrot nose!
Your Elf on the Shelf is playing “the floor is lava”—stuck to the fridge with Christmas bows to escape the fiery chaos below!
Your Elf on the Shelf is sneaking around in style—dressed as a snowman with stacked Styrofoam cups and a crafty holiday disguise!
Interactive Elf on the Shelf ideas
Make mornings even more fun with activities encouraging kids to engage with the elf.
- Set up a tic-tac-toe game with the elf as one of the players.
- Set out crayons, stickers, or a holiday coloring page with the elf ready to “help.”
- Create a simple scavenger hunt where kids follow clues from the elf.
Your elves are teaming up for some festive fun—playing tic-tac-toe with candy canes and marshmallows in a sweet holiday showdown!
Your elves are having a blast sleigh riding down a wrapping paper hill on cardboard sleds, with fluffy cotton snow setting the perfect winter scene!
Your Elf on the Shelf is getting creative—building a sweet snowman out of powdered sugar donuts, candies, and a sprinkle of holiday magic!
Interactive setups give kids something to look forward to and make each morning feel a little more special.
Elf accessories, props, and outfits
Take your Elf on the Shelf fun to the next level with adorable accessories, creative props, and tiny outfits that bring the magic to life! From cozy sweaters to miniature holiday props, these extras make every setup more exciting and keep your elf’s antics fresh all month long.
Whether it’s a chef’s hat for baking adventures or a superhero cape for daring stunts, these playful touches turn simple ideas into unforgettable memories. Get ready to surprise the kiddos with a little extra elf-inspired flair! Here are some of our favorite ideas to get you started:
Creative poses to surprise kids each day
The magic of Elf on the Shelf is in the silly and surprising poses. Here are a few ideas to try:
- Use string or ribbon to create a “climbing” scene with the elf scaling the fridge or cabinets.
- Set up a tiny camera and pretend the elf has been taking selfies overnight.
- Place the elf hanging upside down for a fun twist that’s sure to surprise.
New poses excite kids each day, building anticipation for where the elf might end up next.
Funny Elf on the Shelf pranks
Add a little laughter to the mornings with these lighthearted elf pranks:
- Have the elf unroll toilet paper around the room, just for laughs.
- Set up the elf with crumbs and a half-eaten cookie, like they snuck a snack at night.
- Wrap part of the room or a piece of furniture in gift wrap, “trapping” the elf inside.
These pranks add a playful element to the tradition that kids will love. Here are more funny elf ideas:
Your Elf on the Shelf is lighting up the holiday fun—wrapping their elf buddy in holiday lights for a festive and funny display!
Your elves are up to frosty fun—using shaving cream to make a snowman on the bathroom mirror for a mischievous surprise!
Your elves are bringing the party—it’s raining tacos from the sky, turning snack time into a festive fiesta!
Your Elf on the Shelf is running a “Trees for Sale” stand—complete with delicious tree-shaped brownies for a sweet holiday twist!
Teaching values with Elf on the Shelf
Use your elf to encourage positive habits and teach meaningful lessons:
- Leave notes from the elf encouraging kids to be kind or share with others.
- Set the elf up with a list of things they’re grateful for, inspiring kids to think about gratitude.
- Position the elf with a book, showing that learning and reading are important.
These educational ideas let you add some great lessons to the holiday fun.
Elf on the Shelf ideas that promote positive behavior
Encourage good habits with these elf ideas that inspire positive behavior:
- Leave notes recognizing the kids’ good behavior.
- Set up the elf in a “helpful” pose, like cleaning up toys.
- Encourage kids to write something they’re thankful for each day.
These setups help kids associate the holiday season with kindness and positivity.
Fun hiding spots for your elf
Switch up hiding spots to keep your kids on the lookout each morning:
- Nestle the elf between books.
- Surprise them by hiding the elf in the fridge.
- Tuck the elf among the branches for a festive hiding place.
A new spot each day keeps the Elf search exciting and fresh.
Winter wonderland scenes for Elf on the Shelf
Bring a little holiday magic with mini winter wonderland setups for your elf.
- Decorate around the elf with paper snowflakes.
- Use a small mirror as an “ice rink” for the elf to skate on.
- Set up mini trees, animals, and a sprinkle of faux snow around the elf.
These enchanting winter scenes add extra holiday cheer and charm.
Tips for keeping up with Elf on the Shelf ideas
Keeping up with Elf on the Shelf ideas can be tricky, but a few simple ideas can make it much more manageable. Here are some tips that have helped me overcome common challenges and keep the tradition fun:
- Set a reminder: It’s easy to forget to move the elf, especially during the busy holiday season. Set a nightly alarm on your phone to remind you after the kids are asleep.
- Keep a list of ideas: Avoid last-minute scrambles by keeping a list of quick and easy setups on your phone. Include a few “wow” ideas for weekends when you have more time and simple setups for busy nights.
- Embrace “Magic Fails”: If you forget to move the elf, don’t stress! Just tell the kids that the elf needed extra rest or decided to stay in place to “keep an eye” on a certain room.
- Rotate simple and elaborate ideas: Not every setup has to be a big production. Mix in a few easy ideas, like hiding the elf in a bookshelf, with more creative scenes. This keeps the magic alive without wearing you out.
- Plan ahead with a calendar: Some families find it helpful to map out each day’s idea on a calendar, especially if you want to align the elf’s antics with upcoming events (like holiday baking or movie nights).
These tips keep the fun manageable and help you enjoy the tradition without feeling overwhelmed. Remember, the joy is in the small surprises—don’t feel pressured to go all-out every single day!
FAQ’s
What age is Elf on the Shelf best for?
Kids ages 3-10 enjoy it the most, but the whole family can join the fun.
How can I keep up with daily ideas?
Plan ahead with a simple calendar and keep ideas easy to execute.
Can kids touch Elf on the Shelf?
Traditionally, kids aren’t supposed to touch the elf, but each family can create their own rules.
How long does the tradition last?
Most families start the day after Thanksgiving to December 1 and continue until Christmas Eve.
What if I forget to move the elf?
Blame it on the elf! Say they needed a “rest” or stayed put for a special reason.
Where can I buy Elf on the Shelf accessories?
Look online at Etsy or major retailers for a variety of elf-sized accessories.
With so many creative Elf on the Shelf ideas, you’re all set to bring extra magic and laughter to your home this holiday season. Whether it’s silly pranks, heartfelt moments, or fun surprises, these ideas will keep your family excited to see what the elf does next. Let your imagination run wild, and make this season one to remember!
See also:
I’d love to hear from you! What are some of your favorite Elf on the Shelf ideas? Do you have any funny stories or tips to share? Drop your ideas and experiences in the comments below—let’s inspire each other to make this holiday season magical and memorable!