27 Elf on the Shelf ideas for a creative Christmas countdown
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If you're a parent or spend any time on social media, you're probably well-acquainted with the Elf on the Shelf. Santa’s scouting elf arrives shortly after Thanksgiving and keeps watch to see if kids have been naughty or nice on the lead-up to Christmas morning.
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These sneaky little spies are best known for motivating kids to stay on their best behavior and for creating their own fun and Instagram-worthy nights of mischief. It's a hilarious holiday tradition that gives an extra dose of fun to help keep kids on the nice list.
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If you're looking for some Elf on the Shelf ideas to get started, or you're looking to add a jolt of inspiration to your annual tradition, here are some fun and stress-free ways to kick off some holiday magic in your home.
Elf on the Shelf arrival
Depending on your family—or your stamina for coming up with creative ideas—the Elf on the Shelf arrival date can start as soon as the day after Thanksgiving or as late as two weeks before Christmas. The book that started the trend, however, suggests your Elf on the Shelf arrival be timed between November 25 and December 1.
To start your tradition off right, be sure to snag an elf with an accompanying storybook. The book outlines all the history, background, rules and details of the scouting elves, which will make your foray into this tradition a bit easier and will set your kids up for what to expect in the weeks to come.
Elf on the Shelf ideas
A big part of the fun of the Elf on the Shelf tradition snapping and sharing pictures of the hilarious antics the elves get into while your family is fast asleep. Social media feeds flood with humorous pictures during elfing season, and it's a fun way to connect with others to share creative ideas and some holiday magic.
1. An Elf on the Shelf arrival envelope
Flights from the North Pole are ridiculous. It's far easier for your elf to arrive via airmail. This Elf on the Shelf arrival envelope comes special delivery and fits a standard 12-inch elf.
2. An elfing around Elf on the Shelf activity kit
If you love mini props, set dressings and costumes, this comprehensive kit has everything you need to come off as the one with the best Elf on the Shelf ideas, without having to work at it!
From tiny props to magical snow, this kit has everything you need for authentic-looking setups that will make for a truly magical month of elfin mischief.
3. A holiday-themed elf and fairy door
How about a little doorway for your elf to enter through? This adorable door, wreath and "footprints" set is all you need to give your elf a festive welcome into your home!
4. A set of pre-written notes
A note of the day keeps the bad behavior at bay. If you’re looking to get a little behavior modification out of this tradition, look no further. This set of letters, reminders and a behavior report (to be sent back to Santa on Christmas Eve) will help keep your impish one on track.
5. A tool belt for toy-building
While we do appreciate a good pool party with Barbie and friends, this Elf didn’t just come here to relax. They have some work to do! This tiny tool belt will help them get things done as Christmas Day approaches.
6. A snowman-style sledding set
The weather outside might be frightful but this 4-piece set is so delightful. A sweater, a scarf, some earmuffs and an inflatable sled is all your elf needs for some fun in the winter wonderland. Just add powdered sugar for a perfect indoor snow hill!
7. An Elf on the Shelf idea with a bit of potty humor
The cult of Elf on the Shelf loves humor that errs towards bawdy and potty. This will surely get kids giggling!
8. An Elf on the Shelf costume set to help them get into character
Little known fact: Elves are all about fashion. This couture set will make sure your elf is on trend, whether they are prepping for a slumber party, heading off to a holiday soiree or taking a weekend trip to the moon.
9. A set of lights for tree trimming fun
These scouting elves do get into lots of mischief, but they are also very work-oriented. They work hard and play hard. Here is a string of lights that are just their size for when they want to add some extra holiday cheer to your home.
10. For the hipster elf
He knew all about your favorite music and art before it was cool, and he was a Christmas elf before anyone else. Get him all set to visit his favorite brew pub with horn-rimmed glasses and a scarf that's subversively stylish.
11. For the elf that has some hobbies
There's more to life than just elfing around! Sometimes an elf needs to do some self-care by indulging in their favorite hobbies. If your elf likes ice fishing and rock music, this two-for-one set is just what they need.
12. For the elf that missed pilates class
If your elf is feeling a little bit floppy these days, this set is just what he needs. He'll be able to stand, sit, bend and grip with this smart kit that's made just for getting your elf Instagram-ready and positioned into any desired pose.
13. An Elf on the Shelf set of report cards
If you want to keep it straightforward “naughty” or “nice,” these postcard-sized cards are bright, cheerful and colorful. They don’t get into the nitty gritty, but—depending on your kid—maybe that’s a good thing.
14. A comfy sleep set
If they’re going to be spending the next few weeks at your place, it’d be rude not to give them a comfy setup for their stay. This one comes with a flannel-lined plaid sleeping bag, a fluffy robe fit for a 5-star hotel, a scarf and some reader glasses—in case they brought along a book.
15. Some inflatables for relaxing
Turn your kitchen sink or bathtub into a pool party with these fun floaties. (True, these are made as floating cup holders, but they can also hold some pool-partying holiday elves.) Invite Barbie and maybe a dinosaur or two in on the fun.
16. A book of cute Elf on the Shelf ideas
If you're at a loss, this book will help you come up with all sorts of last-minute inspiration to keep your elf in top shape and your kids on your toes.
17. A personalized prop kit
If you want to have your whole month laid out for you, this kit does all the work! Just add an elf. There are options to buy 12 or 24 days of personalized antics that include props as well as suggested setups for the perfect snaps of your little visitor. You can also personalize this kit with a child’s name and the name of your scouting elf.
18. Some sweet Elf on the Shelf PJs
You’re not going to make them sleep in their work clothes, are you? These comfy, candy cane-themed pajamas and fuzzy slippers are just the way to get on the nice list.
19. A book of inspiration
It can be hard to come up with new and innovative ideas for your elf when they’re around for at least 24 days and nights. For the days when you’re all out of ideas, this 60-page book will help inspire quick and easy scenes, to keep the fun going. It comes with 15 elf props and tools, over 135 colorful photos, and pages and pages worth of inspiration.
20. A mailbox for North Pole correspondence
This magical mailbox takes letters to and from the North Pole nightly. It’s just right for sending off Elf reports, or getting messages back from Santa to encourage good behavior—or when a Christmas list needs immediate updating.
21. Some elf-sized footprint stencils
This stencil transforms baking flour, baking soda or confectioners sugar to make perfectly-sized elf footprints. Little ones will love the magical trails they make throughout your home.
22. An Ugly Sweater set
Your elf will be the star of the ugly sweater party with this set. It includes one sweater with eight attachable decals for a fun and festive look for your little party animal.
23. Some delicious doughnuts
A proper elf knows what it takes to be a good houseguest. Make sure yours arrives with some treats. May we suggest some holiday-themed doughnuts?
24. A cute cookie-making set
Everyone knows that elves love sugar and that cookie-making is one of their greatest talents. This set comes with everything they need to make Christmas confections, including cookie cutters, a tray and colorful holiday sprinkles.
25. For the moonlighting elf
As you may have noticed, elves don’t sleep much. Word is, they are coffee addicts. If you want to get in on that morning coffee, pick up one of these sets to have your own in-home barista.
26. For the couch potato elf
These elves have been working hard all year. To be honest, they never get a day off. Set your elf up for a night off, with this set of popcorn and a comfy sweatshirt to kick back in.
27. A North Pole-style Twister game
If your elf is looking a little stressed, help them blow off steam with a good, old-fashioned game night. Tinsel Twist is really popular north of the Arctic Circle. Gifting this game to your elf will definitely score you some points with Santa.
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This article originally appeared on Reviewed: 27 creative Elf on the Shelf ideas and accessories for Christmas