If you're like us, you're stuck with an Elf on the Shelf until your kids are older. Whether you love it or hate it, you still have to come up with a fun idea each night, and sometimes you may not have any inspiration. These ideas can help you keep the Elf on the Shelf tradition fresh, exciting, and imaginative, keeping the spirit alive for you and your child.
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1. Elves in the Kitchen
The kitchen is the perfect place for holiday elf mischief. Place your Elf on the Shelf in the middle of a cookie decorating disaster, with sprinkles everywhere, frosting on the walls, and flour all around. Or, your elf could get caught raiding the candy jar, caught red-handed with a handful of chocolate chips.
Another fun idea I'm excited to set up is pretending the elf is following a recipe from a cookbook. I'm using The Elf on the Shelf Family Cookbook, which has 50 recipes, fun activities, educational content, photos, and illustrations. Some of the recipes have mini "Elf-size" variations of the recipe, so I want to have the elf make some regular size for the kids and some mini.
2. Elf Scavenger Hunts
An elf scavenger hunt is fun for any holiday or event, and the elf on the shelf isn't any different. Have your child's elf leave clues to guide them toward a small gift or note. Each morning, leave clues behind to guide your kids toward a small surprise or note from the elf.
3. Elves Playing Sports
If your family love sports, you can have your Elf on the Shelf join in on the fun! Set up a mini basketball hoop and position the elf as if they're dunking or shooting a three-pointer. You could also have them “competing” in a race, setting up a line of action figures and creating an obstacle course for them to tackle.
4. Elf DIY Crafting Station
Set your elf up with a mini craft station and an example of a craft your kids can make using the supplies. Use small supplies like paper, markers, glitter, and stickers to show your elf “making” holiday cards, crafting paper snowflakes, creating ornaments, or doing another Christmas craft. This will give your kids inspiration for their own crafts but also make the elf feel like a hands-on part of the festivities.
5. Movie Night
Christmas movies are one of my favorite parts of the season, and our elf agrees! Your elf can deliver movie night goodies so you can all cozy up and enjoy a festive night.
6. Elf Science Experiments
Bring a little holiday science into your home by setting up a small experiment. Place your elf next to a bowl of baking soda, vinegar, a DIY volcano project, or a Christmas sensory bottle. You can add food coloring for extra fun. It could encourage your kids to try an experiment of their own, which is both educational and fun.
7. Game Night
Have your elf bring a new game and some snacks! You can simply set your elf against the items with (or without) a note telling your family to have a fun night together! We do this every year, so at this point my kids might just expect it.
8. Elf Photo Booth Fun
Create a mini elf photo booth scene with your elf as the main model. Use props like reindeer antlers, festive hats, and tiny glasses to dress them up. Place a camera nearby or make a backdrop with some wrapping paper. It’s a fun way to personalize the elf’s look, and kids will love getting in on the photo booth action too.
Recap: Step Up Your Elf on the Shelf Game
Elf on the Shelf is an opportunity to spark joy, laughter, and creativity in your household. By mixing up the usual elf antics with a bit of imagination and fun, you’ll keep the magic of the season alive. What other ideas would you include to step up your elf on the shelf game?
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