Every family has its cherished Christmas traditions, like baking a festive ham, creating a gingerbread house and singing Christmas carols. But in recent years, a new tradition has taken the holiday season by storm: Elf on the Shelf!
This fun tradition features a mischievous Elf who visits your home in the lead-up to Christmas and reports children's behaviour back to Santa. Parents make it even more enjoyable by setting up the Elf in creative scenes or hiding it around the house, waiting for the little ones to spot it. There are even Elf on the Shelf clothes and accessories to give your Elf its own unique personality.
When does Elf on the Shelf come?
The Elf on the Shelf website suggests your Elf arrives between November 24 and December 1, known as Scout Elf Return week. This is when Santa's little helpers depart the North Pole to stay in your homes until Christmas. Make their entrance a grand one; they bring magic to the festive season and can serve as a reminder to your children to be on their best behaviour.
Once your Elf makes its debut, it reports to Santa each night and returns before your children wake. This is where the fun begins. The Elf will land in a different spot each day, and the kids will excitedly search for it every morning. Consider setting a daily alarm on your phone to ensure your Naughty Elf doesn't forget to fly to Santa and back.
When does Elf on the Shelf leave?
You'll want to ensure your Naughty Elf departs at the right time to maintain the magic. Elf on the Shelf traditionally ends on the night of December 24 when it hitches a ride with Santa on his sleigh after delivering presents to your house. Your children can bid farewell to their new friend before going to bed, promising to see them again next year.
What are the rules for Elf on a Shelf?
Once your family adopts and names an Elf, it's time to kickstart the holiday magic. However, there are a few essential rules to follow:
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Don't touch your Elf! This is the most crucial rule, as touching a Naughty Elf causes them to lose their magic. In emergency situations, a parent can provide assistance. If the Elf is accidentally touched, there are ways to restore their magic, like writing a letter to Santa or sprinkling cinnamon nearby.
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Your Scout Elf can't talk, but they love to listen. Encourage your little ones to share their wishes and messages for Santa with the Elves. They might even want to make a Christmas list for their Elf to take back to the North Pole.
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Scout Elves should return to the North Pole on Christmas Eve to help Santa prepare for the next December 25.
What are some Elf on the Shelf name ideas?
- Jingle
- Twinkle
- Sparkle
- Frosty
- Tinsel
- Peppermint
- Jolly
- Gingerbread
- Candy Cane
- Buddy
- Sprinkle
- Cookie
- Pudding
- Nutmeg
- Mistletoe
- Cinnamon
- Holly
- Mischief
- Toffee
- Popcorn
What are some Elf on the Shelf ideas?
- Elf making "snow" angels in sprinkles
- Elf leaving "snow" flour footprints using a stencil
- Elf riding a toy train
- Elf having a tea party with teddies
- Elf "zip-lining" on a string from the Christmas tree
- Elf wrapped up in wrapping paper
- Elf roasting mini marshmallows over a candle
- Elf "decorating" itself with stickers
- Elf rock climbing on the wall using present bows
- Elf trying to lasso a stuffed animal "Reindeer"
- Elf hiding in the kids Christmas stockings
- Elf swinging from a candy cane
- Elf building a toilet paper roll snowman
- Elf floating away with balloons
- Elf having a movie night with treats
- Elf hiding in the fridge with a note, "Chillin' with the Milk!"
- Elf "decorating" the Christmas tree with underwear
- Elf baking mini cookies and leaving them alongside icing and sprinkles for the kids to decorate them
Get your very own Naughty Elf and join us in creating loads of festive fun and magic this Christmas season! We can't wait to see and hear about all the mischievous adventures your Elf embarks on - be sure to tag us on social media. Plus, for all your Christmas decorating needs, explore our selection of Christmas decor and everything you require to set up for the holidays on our website.