Elf on the Shelf 101
We were blessed many years where the school did Elf on the Shelf, then when COVID hit, that all changed! So, that was when I became responsible for the Elf! I have learned a lot (like don’t move them 2x in the day – overnight & while at school – as you have to keep up whatever you do! #newbiemove OMG!) There are some shenanigans that are super simple and such (just moving around the house) and other times where it gets super involved/intricate in the fun (lots of decorating, extra messes, etc.). No matter what you do, simple or complex, I know your kiddos will enjoy it as much as my kids have!
So, where do you start? Well, you need an Elf on the Shelf! There are official starter kits that include the Elf (boy or girl & eye color options), the Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition book, a Keepsake Box, and an Official Adoption Certificate. There are other variations, like a Plushee Pal Elf or the Christmas Elf Behaving Badly (that is the one we have), and others!
Usually Elf on the Shelf arrives on December 1st, but there is flexibility there! I know some elves who have shown up during Thanksgiving weekend and some that got LOST on their way, so they came a few days later! There are not Elf on the Shelf police, so just do the best that you can!
Scout Elf’s job is to watch over the kiddos and report back to Santa each night while they are sleeping! So, they need to be on their best behavior so that the Elf can share those good choices with Santa! There are RULES though for the Elf that you MUST follow or else they may lose their magic! We have a printable version of the rules too!
Elf will be with your family throughout most of December, but on the night that Santa comes (late night on December 24th), Elf goes back to the North Pole until the next year!
Are you looking for some ideas? Well, you are in for a treat as we have over 35+ ideas that your Elf can do this season! Have fun and enjoy the Elf season!
Other Elf on the Shelf Options/Helpers to get through the season:
- Insta-Moment Props
- Scout Elves at Play – Tools & Tips for Your Elves
- Elf Ideas – Super Set
- Scout Elf Carrier (for when you are on the go)
- Elf Props
- Itty Bitty Baker Outfit & Kit
- Donut Pajama Outfit
- Elf Clothes
- Doll Clothes/Variations – Not a perfect fit, but most of those outfits will work too!
- Elf Pets: An Arctic Fox Tradition (book & stuffed animal)
- Additional Elf Pets
Explore More with My Military Lifestyle and Holidays!