If your family loves Elf on the Shelf traditions as much as we do, you’re in the right place. Over the years, we’ve come up with all kinds of creative Elf on the Shelf ideas—from funny arrival scenes and themed breakfasts to scavenger hunts and accessories that keep the magic alive all December long.
Some of our most popular Elf ideas include how to host a magical North Pole breakfast, an Elf scavenger hunt that gets kids moving, and even a construction-themed Elf arrival for a big surprise. We’ve also shared seasonal spins like Elf on the Shelf at Halloween, plus our favorite accessories that make setup quick and fun.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking for new inspiration this year, scroll through for dozens of posts that will help make your Elf’s visit more fun, memorable, and low-stress.
Elf on the Shelf printable games are one of my favorite ways to keep the holiday magic going without adding extra stress. These mini activities are quick to prep and always get a laugh when the kids discover what the elf was “playing” overnight. It’s a simple trick that turns a regular morning into something…
This Elf on the Shelf hat printable started out as a last-minute idea and somehow became one of our most memorable elf antics ever. One December morning, after completely forgetting to move the elf, I grabbed some tape, cut out a few hats, and stuck them onto our family photos. The kids were howling, they…
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…
This Elf on the Shelf crossword puzzle is a fun, low-prep way to bring some holiday cheer into your December plans. With simple clues tied to classic Elf antics, it’s an easy printable that works well at home, in the classroom, or during a Christmas party. My son loves racing to fill it in and…
Every December, I lean hard on easy wins like this Elf I Spy printable, especially on those mornings when I’ve forgotten to move the elf (again). It’s one of those activities that takes no prep but still feels magical to kids. My son used to love racing to find all the tiny elves and candy…
If you’re searching for Elf on the Shelf leaving ideas that feel fun and meaningful, I’ve gathered some of our favorites from over a decade of Elf visits. Saying goodbye doesn’t have to be sad, it can be a sweet moment filled with a little mischief, a few surprises, and maybe even a final note…
Elf on the Shelf printables have saved me more times than I can count during the busy lead-up to Christmas. After more than a decade of Elf antics, I’ve learned that having a stash of quick, low-prep ideas on hand makes the season way more fun, and a lot less stressful. Whether you forgot to…
Scavenger hunt printables are one of the easiest ways to turn an ordinary day into something kids actually get excited about. Whether you’re planning a birthday party, filling time during a holiday break, or just looking for a low-prep way to get everyone moving, this page is packed with ready-to-use ideas that work in real…
Elf books for kids have become one of our favorite parts of the holiday season. Every December, we build a little stack next to the cocoa station, and they somehow make even the busiest mornings feel a bit more magical. Some of these stories tie right into our Elf on the Shelf antics, while others…
The elf on strike printable adds a fun twist to our holiday season, encouraging kids to think about their behavior. Imagine your little one discovering that their favorite scout elf is on break, holding up signs explaining why it’s taking a timeout. It’s a lighthearted way to remind kids about being kind and working together….
The Elf on the Shelf candy cane hunt has become one of our favorite ways to add a little surprise and sugar to the holiday season. It’s easy to set up, doesn’t take much time, and never fails to get kids excited first thing in the morning. Whether you’re already deep into Elf antics or…
Our Elf on the Shelf report card printable has become one of those little traditions that makes a big impact. It’s such a simple way to keep the magic going while gently encouraging good behavior throughout December. My son always gets a kick out of seeing what the Elf “noticed” that day, whether it’s helping…
When December gets hectic, I always come back to a few easy wins, this Elf on the Shelf matching game is one of them. It’s quick to prep, fun for all ages, and gives us a festive way to slow down for a few minutes. My son used to love flipping over the cards and…
Keeping the magic alive is easier when everyone knows the ground rules. This Elf on the Shelf rules printable helps set clear, kid-friendly expectations from day one. In our house, posting these rules near the elf became part of the tradition. It’s a simple way to remind the kids how the magic works, without needing…
If you’re running a little behind this season, our Elf on the Shelf Sorry I’m Late letter can help make the wait feel just as magical. Many of us get caught up in the holiday rush, and sometimes the elf’s arrival slips our minds. But don’t worry; this printable letter is a simple way to…