One of the most popular new Christmas traditions over the past few years is The Elf on the Shelf. Love him or hate him, the mischievous elf has become many a family’s favourite and is great for keeping the children’s behaviour in check. The elf watches children’s behaviour during the month of December and lets Father Christmas know how they are getting on.
After your children have gone to bed, you place your elf in different positions for the morning, normally showing him getting up to no good. The elf often leaves a note telling the children exactly what they’ve been up to during the night. It might seem like a lot of hard work, but it’s a great way to interact with your children and get even more excitement around Christmas; your little one will rush down the stairs each morning to discover where the elf is and what he’s been up to.
With 24 days to fill with different Elf on the Shelf scenarios, it can get challenging thinking of what to do next so scroll through our ideas for some easy Elf on the Shelf photos, with lots of ideas on what your elf might get up to tonight.
Easy Elf on the Shelf ideas
Advent Elf
If your youngster is having an advent calendar this year, why not get your Elf on the Shelf to present it with a reminder of the rules of the game? Day one, done!
Credit: @tracey.harley84
Snowman toilet roll
A simple suggestion which involves everything you will already have in your home - three toilet rolls and a pen!
Credit: @under_the_sun
Quarantine elf
{#h-quarantine-elf}
You can't do Elf on the Shelf this year without a nod to the coronavirus! And this little guy is following all the rules...
Credit: @elfontheshelfontheisland
Grand entrance
Another good one for December the 1st, simply make a paper plane out of wrapping paper and pop your elf in the Christmas tree.
Credit: @mummamealey
Hot chocolate elf
One for the weekend we reckon, this elf also comes with a sweet beverage to be enjoyed!
Credit: @blinkerscoffee19
Apple caterpillar
We adore this fun idea, making use of the apples lying in your fruit bowl.
Credit: Unknown
Toothpaste mess
Encourage your child to brush their teeth with a little help from their elf companion.
Credit: Unknown
Hostage elf
This one would work well with any other toys your youngster has including teddies, barbies or action figures.
Credit: Unknown
Banana drawing
Another fruity idea, this one is especially great if you're good with a pen. It doesn't have to be minion inspired either, simple funny faces would do the trick!
Credit: Unknown
Dog biscuit tasting
If you've got a furry friend, you're good to go with this simple idea! And a reminder of Santa's favourite treats is never a bad idea...
Credit: Unknown
Nail polish Elf
Uh oh, this naughty Elf on the Shelf has been busy in the night! Just make sure Dad hasn't got anything important to do the next day...
Credit: Unknown
Ketchup splat Elf
This idea would work with any squeezy condiments you have and shouldn't be too messy to clean up afterwards either.
Credit: Unknown
Elf portrait
Make your elf officially part of the family and draw them into your family photos.
Credit: Paper Heart Family
Social distancing elf
This little guy is taking social distancing very seriously! You can even print the letter board here.
Credit: Living Locurto
Elf on the Shelf accessories to buy
Elf Dressing Gown
View offer
Elves need their beauty sleep too! With this dressing gown from Elves Behavin’ Badly, your child can dress up the Elf ready for bed before they hit their own pillow.
Elves Behavin' Badly Elves Christmas Jumper
View offer
Add a touch of Christmas magic to your Elf on the Shelf with these knitted dress up sweaters. They are an adorable way to make sure your elf is warm and cosy when the cold weather hits. Your little one will love the knitted jumpers – they’re essential for their visit to the North Pole.
The Elf on the Shelf Twirling in the Snow Skirts
View offer
A great way to ensure your elf looks fabulous before she goes on her journey to the North Pole.
The Elf on the Shelf
View offer
If you haven't got one already, the first place you'll want to start is with the elf itself! Available in different genders, the elf also comes with a book which explains the Elf on the Shelf tradition.
The Elf on the Shelf Claus Couture North Pole Goal u0026 Gear Outfit
View offer
If you've got a footie mad little one, this set includes an Official North Pole jersey and shorts, socks/shoes and Peppermint stripe goalpost scene.
Elf Speech Bubble Wipe Self Standing Sign
View offer
There's lots of potential with this wipe clean sign for your Elf which comes with a pen ready for your messages.
Most read: The best Christmas presents for toddlers
Most read: Christmas books to read as a family
Most read: Make the perfect Christmas Eve box