Stuck on ideas for your elf? We’ve got you covered!

Elf on the Shelf is a newer family tradition that some families participate in during the holiday season, and one that can cause a little extra holiday stress for parents. But a reminder – this tradition is supposed to be FUN, and a way to spark even more holiday magic in your household. 

If you need a little background, the Elf on the Shelf only has 1 major rule: kiddos can’t touch the elf, otherwise they lose their magic. Each morning, your kiddos will find your elf in another (usually mischievous) position…and that’s where the fun comes in for parents. But if you’re struggling with ideas, keep reading for some of Children’s Mercy Kansas City families favorite elf tricks and treats. 

1. Relaxing in a hot tub.

   Fill a bowl or pot with mini marshmallows and stick your elf inside in a lounging position. Elf needs to relax after a long day of watching the kiddos! 

2. Catching some zzzs.

   Take a tissue box, remove a few and tuck your elf in for the night. Make sure to cover them up with a blanket and add a pillow. 

3. Swinging on the tree.

   Tie some thread around a small donut, stick one leg of the elf inside so they’re positioned like a tire swing, and let them swing from the Christmas tree. 

4. Movie night.

   Sit your elf next to a small bowl of popcorn and lay the remote next to them. Double the surprise by following up with a family holiday movie night! 

5. Holiday report card.

   Lay your elf next to a cell phone – because he’s giving Santa an update on whether your kiddos have been naughty or nice (and surely they’ve been nice)! 

6. Right at home.

   Do you love making gingerbread houses? So does your elf! Sit them on top of the gingerbread creation your children recently made and tell them the elf made themselves right at home. 

7. Elves need caffeine, too.

   Keeping an eye on things is hard work, and elves need extra fuel. Set your elf up in a coffee cup next to a ready to go coffee maker and get some morning brew. 

8. Snowball fight!

   Choose some of your kiddo’s favorite small toys (like dolls, Little People or figurines) and line them up across a table from your elf. Scatter some marshmallows in between, and you set the scene for a snowball fight. 

9. Gone fishin’.

   In the bathroom, fill up your sink with Goldfish crackers or Swedish Fish. Give your elf a toy fishing rod, or even a twig and some string, and they’ve gone fishing! 

10. Rollercoaster ride.

    Your dryer can double as an amusement park! Strap your elf to the side with some of your kiddo’s other favorite toys with a strip of packing tape, and they’re ready to ride. 

We hope these give you a few fun (and easy!) ideas to start this tradition with your family. But remember – the holidays are about building memories, so focus on the fun and don’t stress, your kiddos will love whatever mischief the elf gets into.