Free Phases of the Moon Elf on the Shelf Printable

The phases of the moon Elf on the Shelf printable is a creative way to mix holiday fun with a bit of science.

Our elf has been causing mischief in our home for over 10 years, and for at least the last five, he’s found his way into our homeschool routine too.

This year, we’re adding a new twist by turning one of his antics into a science lesson about the moon’s phases.

It’s been such a fun way to keep our holiday traditions alive while sneaking in a little learning along the way.

Perfect for parents, teachers, and homeschoolers, this activity combines learning and holiday traditions in a way kids will love.

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Elf on the Shelf Moon Phases Printable

This Elf on the Shelf worksheet is a funny way to combine one of your December elf setups with a little science.

The idea is simple: the printable shows the phases of the moon, but the Full Moon has a cutout where you can position your elf. When the kids find them in the morning, the elf’s bottom is taking the place of the full moon!

It’s an easy setup that works as a silly Elf on the Shelf prank on its own, but it can also be used to introduce kids to waxing and waning and how the moon changes throughout the month.

Once printed, you can use the moon phases chart in a few different ways:

• Set it up overnight with your elf positioned behind the Full Moon circle for the kids to discover in the morning.
• Use the labeled phases to talk about waxing and waning and what happens between a new moon and full moon.
• Pair it with a moon observation activity and see if kids can identify the phase they can see outside.

The printable can also be folded into a stand-up display, which makes it easier to position the elf behind the Full Moon cutout. You can set it up on a table, shelf, or anywhere your elf normally appears.

Learn the Phases of the Moon in a Fun Way

The printable shows the main phases of the moon, with each stage clearly illustrated and labeled:

• Waxing Crescent
• First Quarter
• Waxing Gibbous
• Full Moon
• Waning Gibbous
• Third Quarter
• Waning Crescent

Using the Elf on the Shelf as the Full Moon adds a funny twist while giving kids a simple visual introduction to how the moon changes throughout the month.

How to Use the Printable

This Elf on the Shelf moon phases idea takes just a few minutes to set up. Print the page, cut out the circle in the Full Moon position, and place your elf behind the chart so their bottom shows through the opening.

Leave it out for the kids to discover in the morning, or use it as a fun introduction to a lesson about the phases of the moon.

Elf on the Shelf Full Moon Idea

For the classic setup, prop the printable up and position your elf behind the Full Moon cutout. It makes a funny Elf surprise on its own, but the labeled moon phases also give you an easy way to explain how the moon changes throughout the month.

You could also pair it with a nighttime moon observation and have kids identify which phase they can see in the sky.

More Moon Phases Printables

Looking for more ways to explore the phases of the moon? These free printables are perfect for extending the learning experience:

• Phases of the moon worksheets: Help kids dive deeper into lunar science with activities that reinforce understanding of waxing, waning, and other phases.
• Phases of the moon crossword puzzle: A fun and challenging way to test knowledge about the moon’s phases and related terms.
• Moon phases word search: Keep kids engaged with a themed word search that combines fun with science vocabulary practice.

More Elf on the Shelf Printables

Need another easy idea for your elf? These are some of our most popular printable activities:

• Elf props – Add quick printable props to your elf setups throughout December.
• Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt – Send the kids searching for clues with a Christmas elf scavenger hunt.
• Elf on the Shelf hat printable – A simple printable hat for an easy elf setup.
• Elf crossword puzzle – A printable puzzle for a quieter elf activity.

Grab the Free Phases of the Moon Elf Printable Here!

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Last Updated on 20 September 2026 by Clare Brown