Get Ready For Some Elf-Tastic Fun: 52 Creative Elf On The Shelf Ideas

This post may contain affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, we may gain a small commission should you make a purchase. Please see our Disclaimer for more information.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, Mommas! Which also means that it’s time to break out that beloved (or not-so-beloved) Elf on the Shelf! Yes, I know. Many of us have a love/hate relationship with that Elf. There’s the thrill of the first day your Elf arrives and you just can’t wait to see the look on your kids’ faces when they realizes that their well-loved Elf has returned for the Christmas season! Then there’s the dread when you realize you forgot to move the dang thing last night... Again. I once discovered our elf had fallen from her hiding place and was just laying on the middle of the floor when I came down with our kids one morning. In sheer panic, I raced ahead of the girls and kicked that thing into a pile of God-only-knows-what mess and quickly directed them to the kitchen for breakfast to I could put the Elf in a new, hasty position. Hooray for holiday traditions!

If you are like me, you are pretty new to this Elf thing. You also probably have very little time and creative energy left in you by the end of the day. So your Elf might kinda move boringly around the house. You might also be an Elf wielding wizard with all kinds of great ideas to bring excitement and magic to each December morning in your home. Whether you are an Elf novice or an expert, this list is bound to get your creative juices flowing. If you’re an Elf hater, you might even find yourself getting a little bit excited for your Elf to return to your home this year once you get a taste of these awesome ideas… Or maybe not. I never claimed to be a miracle worker.

Anyway, I am super excited to be able to share this list of EPIC Elf on the Shelf ideas I collected from a variety of awesome bloggers. I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to present these top tier Elf ideas to you. These bloggers are Elf masterminds, and these ideas are going to make your Elf the coolest on the North Pole block.

Magical Elf on the Shelf Printables That Will Delight Your Kids

Super-Elf On the Shelf

Super Hero Elf on The Shelf Printable — Super-Elf on The Shelf from Mom Hacks 101

ALL kids go through a superhero phase! If your kiddo is in the middle of theirs, this one is bound to get them running to their dress up box for a cape. My girls love to see their Elf sharing in their interests, so to see her in a superhero costume would absolutely have them jumping off the walls Spiderman style. Get the FREE printable here!

Elf Notes

Would your kid not be excited to receive a NOTE from their Elf?! Didn’t think so! Go get these adorable Elf Note Printables and make your kid’s day! This is especially fun if your child is reading (or starting to read) on their own. Believe me, these notes will make them feel so special. There are some notes that are pre-printed and others that are blank so you can write your child a more personalized message signed by their favorite Elf. You can get these (Also Free) printable Elf Notes at Mom Hacks 101.

Elf Pizza, Anyone?

This printable Elf pizza stand is SO adorable. We are pizza connoisseurs, so this printable is absolutely making it on our list of Elf must haves. Let your kids wake up to this Elf Pizza stand and announce that tonight is a pizza night. They’re going to be pumped for pizza night all day long. Did I mention this is also free? WHAT’S STOPPING YOU?!

Elf on the Shelf Return/Goodbye Letter

Elf on the Shelf Letters — Elf on the Shelf Arrival/Goodbye Letter from The Stress-Free Christmas

Busy beyond all belief? You’re a mom, of course you are. No time to write letters from pretend Christmas Elves? Have no fear, you can print out these letters (Yes, for free) signed by your elf! One is for when your Elf arrives and the other is for when it is time for your Elf to go.

Elf of the Shelf Scavenger Hunt

Homeschool of 1 put together an adorable Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt game that your kids can play with their Elf. This is a great way to let your child feel that they’re playing with their Elf without being tempted to touch him. (We wouldn’t want your Elf to lose their Christmas magic after all.) You can use these printable scavenger hunt cards to lead your kids to a special holiday treat, gift, or activity. There are endless opportunities with this one!

Elf on the Shelf Bakes Cookies

These cute little printable signs are a great way to encourage your kids to help you bake some Christmas cookies. There is even an option for Kindness Elves to encourage your little ones to help you make cookies to give away. We are all for that idea. It is the season of giving after all! Add a little extra Elf magic by dressing your Elf in this adorable Baker Outfit!

Elf on the Shelf Hot Chocolate Station

Your kids will not forget this amazing Hot Chocolate Station Elf on the Shelf Idea! Create a hot chocolate station that Santa himself would envy and set up these printable signs with your Elf this year! You can put out the hot chocolate mix, marshmallows, milk, candy canes, sprinkles, whipped cream… SO many choices!

Elf on the Shelf Christmas Book Countdown

I am a sucker for anything that gets kids excited to read, and this Elf on the Shelf Christmas Book Countdown Printable is a genius way to inspire reading all December long!

Mason Jar Elf Travel

Elf In A Mason Jar — Elf Jar Printable from Hunny I’m Home DIY

Stuff your Elf into a mason jar and secure this printable note to the lid! Remember how we talked about keeping that Christmas Magic inside your elf? This is another outstanding way to allow your child to “play” with their Elf. They can carry their Elf around the house safely as long as they keep the jar closed. Brilliant I tell you!

Elf on the Shelf Twister

🎅🎄 Get ready for some festive fun with this Elf on the Shelf Twister Printable! 🎉💃 Watch as the magic of the Elf on the Shelf comes to life in a whole new way, bringing joy and laughter to your little ones.
Imagine the excitement on your kids' faces when they stumble upon their mischievous elf entangled in a hilariously twisted game of twister! With this printable, your elf will literally bend over backward to create a memorable and playful scene that will keep your children guessing and giggling throughout the holiday season.

Elf on the Shelf Donate Toys Letter

'Tis the season of giving, and what better way to teach our children the true meaning of the holidays than by encouraging them to help Santa deliver gifts to all the good children around the world? This free Elf on the Shelf Printable Letter is a fantastic tool to engage your little ones in a heartwarming act of kindness. This letter will inspire them to gather toys they no longer use, reminding them that their generosity can bring a smile to another child's face. (Getting rid of some clutter might bring a smile to your face too!)

Secret Message From Santa

Elf Secret Message Letter — Secret Message From Santa Printable from Darcy and Brian

Picture this: a printable secret message from Santa, delivered straight from the North Pole by your mischievous Elf on the Shelf. This simple yet enchanting idea is bound to light up the faces of your kids. Imagine their excitement as they wake up, eagerly search for their special scout elf, and discover the hidden message left by Santa himself! They will be beside themselves, I guarantee it!

Behavior Reports Brought By Your Elf on the Shelf

Elf on the Shelf Behavior Report from Crystal and Comp

These printable behavior reports are a super cute idea! There are two options, one for praise and one for warning. Personally, I stand with praise as being the most effective tool for shaping the behavior of little ones. However, I understand that parenting is not a one-size-fits-all kind of thing. No judgement, just giving my little two cents based off of my time in Behavior Therapy. All in all these printables are adorable, your kiddo is definitely going to try their best to get some praise from good old St. Nick!

Elf Christmas Tree Pun Printable

Elf on the Shelf Christmas Tree Pun — Chipmas Elf Pun Printable From Frugal Coupon Living

Who doesn’t love a good pun? This printable makes for a super easy, fun Elf idea! Literally all you have to do is throw a few bags of chips in the tree and print out this silly pun. BOOM! Done. Love that for you, boo.

Elf on the Shelf Rules

Need to lay down the law in your house? I get it, rules can be tricky for kids… and many adults. Print out this Elf Rules poster and set it up with your Elf one morning. Then you can hang it up as a constant reminder to your kids what the rules are in regards to Snowdrop/JingleBell/SprinkleSugarPlum… You get the idea.

Reindeer Games Printable

Elf on The Shelf Reindeer Games — Reindeer Games Elf Printable from Frugal Coupon Living

JUMP as quickly as you can on this link to get this free Reindeer Games Printable! This is such a fun addition to your Elf on the Shelf antics. Everybody knows that kids love games. They are going to have endless fun with these reindeer games brought to them by their very own, in-house Elf! Seriously, we are talking hours of entertainment here! This is VALUABLE!

Elf Adoption Certificate

Misplaced your original Elf adoption certificate? Maybe you got your Elf as a hand-me-down. Either way, this free printable is absolutely adorable! Your kids will love to make their Elf officially part of the family with this Elf adoption certificate.

Elf Letter Board Printables

MamasBuzz put together 54 Elf Letter Board Printables! For kids who are reading, these add some serious personality to your Elf. Snatch these up and print them ahead of time for some extremely easy Elf fun!

Elf Introductory Letter

This letter is particularly useful if you don’t have the Elf on the Shelf Book. This printable would be perfect to set up the day your Elf arrives from the North Pole. This letter will help your children understand exactly what their new Elf is doing at their house and what the expectations are.

Free Printable Elf on the Shelf Goodbye Letter

The time has come, your family’s Elf has to go back to the North Pole until next year. This can be really hard for some kiddos. After all, they’ve spent a month (some even longer) waking up each morning to this special, magical friend in their house. This goodbye letter will help them with this transition back to a more normal daily routine. As always, encourage your child by reassuring them that their Elf will be back next Christmas season.

Elf on the Shelf Crafts and Goodies That Bring The Magic of Christmas to The Next Level

Elf Mickey/Minnie Ears

Elf on the Shelf Mickey Ears — Elf Mickey Ears From Simplify Create Inspire

Imagine letting your Elf break the news to your kids that you are taking them to DISNEY by setting him or her up with these adorable little ears on?! I’m actually obsessed with this idea. I’m about to book a trip JUST so I can do this. (Confession: I’ve never been to Disney.) This is also just cute if your kids are Disney fans! They’ll love to see their Elf with a pair of Mickey ears! Check out how to make these adorable ears here!

Elf Paper Plate Craft

Paper Plate Elf on the Shelf Craft — Elf on the Shelf Craft From The Inspiration Edit

Looking for a fun and festive activity to enjoy with your little ones during the holiday season? Look no further than this Elf on the Shelf Paper Plate Craft! This engaging, hands-on project is sure to delight both children and adults alike. Not only does it allow your kids to showcase their creativity and imagination, but it also promotes their critical thinking skills as they design and assemble their very own mischievous elf. Transforming plain paper plates into adorable elves, this craft encourages bonding and quality time with your kids as you work together to bring these little characters to life. So why not embark on this joyful crafting adventure and create cherished memories with your family? Let the Elf on the Shelf festivities begin!

Elf House Craft

Printable Elf House For Elf on the Shelf — Elf House Printable Craft From Growing Up Gabel

This is a printable and a craft! Print this out and put this together with your kids! They will love the idea of decorating a house for their Elf. You could even have your Elf present it, asking your kids to make some houses for him/her! I’m not sure you will ever see your children so motivated to help somebody out. Elves just have a way with children. I’m definitely doing this one with my girls!

Elf Sugar Cookies

Don’t these Elf Sugar Cookies look absolutely PRECIOUS?! I am obsessed with these, and I know my kids would completely lose their tiny toddler minds over these. Your Elf could present the idea of baking cookies and have the recipe for these beside him. Baking these sweet and whimsical treats with your kids will not only create lasting memories but also ignite their imagination. From mixing the dough to decorating the cookies, your little ones will be engaged every step of the way. If you’re homeschooling, this is a great thing to add into your holiday curriculum- A holiday baking STEM activity! Who doesn’t love that?! No matter how you use them, these cookies are guaranteed to bring joy and laughter to your kitchen. So roll up your sleeves, order up some elf aprons, and make a new family Elf tradition!

Elf Donuts

Made from cheerios, these tiny, bite-sized donuts are the perfect festive treat for your Elf to gift your kids! They are tiny so you don’t need to worry about the kids overloading with sugar, but can still give them a little treat. Don't just take our word for it, check out the recipe at Tried and True Recipes. With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, you'll be whipping up a batch of these magical treats in no time. Your kids will thank you- Well they’ll thank their Elf… HAHA!

Elf on the Shelf White Hot Chocolate

Imagine your kids’ amazement when they discover THIS special surprise from their sweet Elf on the Shelf - a delicious cup of Elf on the Shelf white hot chocolate! Made with love and sprinkled with magic, this delightful concoction promises to awaken their taste buds with its creamy richness. As they take that first sip, the smoothness of the white chocolate will envelop their senses, transporting them to a winter wonderland of flavor. Whether they're cozying up by the fireplace or enjoying a snowy outdoor adventure day, this indulgent treat is the perfect way to keep the warmth and happiness of Elf on the Shelf coming.

Elf on the Shelf Pancakes

Another ridiculously fun, festive, and delicious idea is to have your Elf prepare breakfast for you kids- In the form of Elf on the Shelf Pancakes! Call me Sam-I-am, and don’t let the green color fool you, Momma. These pancakes are not just scrumptious; they are a fantastic way to bring the Elf on the Shelf tradition to life. It's a guaranteed recipe for smiles, giggles, and memories that will be cherished for years to come.

Elf Cookies

Elf Shoe Sugar Cookies — Elf Cookies From Easy Family Recipe Ideas

These Elf Cookies are an alternative option to the Elf Sugar Cookies listed above, or hey, why not try both? (If you do, you should totally let me know which ones you liked best in the comments!) I’m a huge fan of baked goods, so when it comes to cookies I say the more the merrier Christmas! Rather than the face of an Elf, these cookies feature adorable red and green Elf shoes. Your Elf could make these for your kids to wake up to, or this could be another great opportunity for some festive family baking time. Either way, you know your kids are going to devour these!

Other Festive Elf on the Shelf Ideas That Will Make Your Kids Believe in Magic

Elf and Barbie Road Trip

We love this super simple Elf on the Shelf idea from Crystal and Comp: Elf and Barbie take a road trip. This holiday season feels like the perfect time for this idea too, considering the Barbie Movie hit theaters this year. If you have Barbie fans in your house, I just know they’ll get a kick out of seeing Barbie with their Elf riding shotgun!

Minimalist Mama Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Minimalist Mama is an Elf on the Shelf mastermind and has a list of 35+ amazing Elf on the Shelf Ideas like the ones below. Click here to see the complete idea list!

Elf Snowball Fight

Watch out! Your Elf wants to have a snowball fight! I don’t know, but I kind of want to leave my Elf like this all season as a decoration. Something about this one just looks really well put together.

Elf Advent Calendar

Look at this cute Santa advent calendar idea! This is so simple, but so much fun. You’re kids will love adding a cotton ball to Santa’s beard each morning. Bonus: it’s chocolate free! Between the Halloween candy that’s still sitting in my cabinets and the stockings loaded with candy that are arriving on Christmas morning, my kids definitely are not lacking in the candy department.

Elf Sprinkle Angels

If you’ve got sprinkles, you can do this in two seconds. Put some sprinkles on the counter, throw that elf down and force it to make a sprinkle angel. THIS IS CHRISTMAS MAGIC PEOPLE!

Giant Elf Kiss

We love an easy idea that looks like more effort than it is! Just wrap your elf in some tin foil and shape it like a giant Hershey’s Kiss. Boom, you’re done.

Elf Tattoo Parlor

A great option for teens, Elf has opened up a tattoo parlor! This is actually hilarious to me. Something tells me Barbie is going to have regrets.

Elf Nap Time

Elf on the Shelf Napping in the Silverware Drawer — Elf Nap Time From Minimalist Mama

This is such a unique idea! I have not seen this one any where else yet, and I’m going to give this one a try. Maybe it will encourage my older toddler to take a nap… A momma can dream!

Elf Insta Post Caption

Instagram Elf on the Shelf — Felt Cute, Might Delete Later Elf Idea From Minimalist Mama

This Elf is letting social media get the best of her. This is a great idea for getting older kids to chuckle while they get ready to leave for school.

Elf Feeding Dinosaurs

Elf on the Shelf Feeds Toy Dinosaurs — Elf Feeding Dinosaurs Idea from Minimalist Mama

Do you have kids who are dinosaur fanatics? Are all children obsessed with dinosaurs? I honestly think so. I’ve spent a lot of time around kids. I mean hours upon hours of practicum, behavior therapy, babysitting, parenting… I have yet to meet a child who is not impressed by a dinosaur. Throw in a magical Christmas Elf and, Momma, you’ve got yourself a recipe for childhood wonder.

Elf Exercise

We are all about fitting in exercise! Let your Elf be a good example to your kiddos by posing him or her weight lifting! Your Elf might inspire your kids to get their groove on, here are some great Mommy and Me Workouts to get the exercise party started!

Elf Bubble Baths

Elf on the Shelf Takes a Bubble Bath — Elf Bubble Bath From Minimalist Mama

This is our last idea from Minimalist Mama, the Elf Bubble Bath. I mean how cute is this?! The kids will definitely get a kick out of this one. Just be sure you have some bubble bath for them because monkey see….

Elf Brings Donuts

Elf on the Shelf Donut Delivery — Elf Brings Donuts From A Mother’s Random Thoughts

A Mother’s Random Thoughts has some great ideas for Elf on the Shelf specifically geared toward little ones! Having your Elf bring donuts for breakfast is definitely one of our favorites. Check out the complete list here!

Elf Magic Cereal Trick

This Elf Magic Cereal Trick is going to completely blow your kids’ minds. They are going to wonder how in the world their Elf is keeping their favorite cereal levitating all day long. Get a complete how-to from Frugal Coupon Living.

Elf in a Balloon

Elf on the Shelf Stuck in Balloon — Elf in a Balloon From Frugal Coupon Living.

I actually tried to do this on my own last year and absolutely failed terribly. I could not, for the life of me, get our Elf in the balloon without breaking it. Well, THANK YOU Frugal Coupon Living! I had no idea that there was such a thing as a balloon stuffer. Now I know! And now, so do you, Momma! Let’s all shove our Elves in some balloons! Woo hoo for Christmas Magic!

Elf is Trapped in the TV

Elf on the Shelf Trapped in TV — Elf is Trapped in the TV from Frugal Coupon Living

This is our final idea from Frugal Coupon Living, and man are we loving their stuff! Trap your Elf in the TV to really get your kids scratching their heads. I mean, HOW did that even happen?!

Paper Heart Family Toddler Elf on the Shelf Ideas

The Paper Heart Family blog has a great post with 37 Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Toddlers! Here’s just a few of those beautifully simple ideas:

Elf Whipped Cream Toothpaste

Oh, the laughter that will echo through the halls when your kids catch their silly Elf on the Shelf brushing his tiny teeth with whipped cream! Picture their wide-eyed astonishment, their giggles so infectious that even the Grinch would crack a smile. Their innocent minds, forever convinced that nothing could be as hilarious as a sugary, fluffy topping being mistaken for toothpaste. Who knew that a simple can of whipped cream could become the comedic prop to ignite endless fits of laughter?

Elf Tea Party

I don’t know about you, but my kids are obsessed with tea parties. I’ve even occasionally caught myself wondering if I would descend into madness if I had to pretend to sip tea from a plastic cup for the 50th time in a single morning. If your kids are also teaholics, you wouldn’t be surprised by the excitement your kids would feel if they stumbled upon their Elf on the Shelf throwing a tea party with their beloved toys! The Elf would be sitting there, wearing her trademark grin, pretending to sip tea and engaging in animated conversations with the toys. Your kids would be in awe, eagerly joining in the imaginary play, pouring invisible tea, and engaging in delightful chatter with their magical elf and cherished companions.

Baking Mishap

Okay, this one has even me cracking up. I don’t know why this is so hilarious, but I just know the kids will eat this one up. Your kids will be laughing about this one all day long. They will be telling everyone about how their clumsy little Elf got herself stuck in the whisk back at home.

E is For Elf!

As a homeschool mom, this one speaks to my educator soul. I love squeezing education into the natural fun and play that occurs in childhood. This is a simple, yet effective lesson on the letter E for your Preschool and Kindergarten aged toddlers! The novelty of the Elf will create those beautiful brain connections for your child that last a lifetime- They will likely never forget that E is for Elf.

Play Doh Face

Want your Elf to get into a tiny bit of comedic mischief? This Play Doh face on a doll idea is perfect! Play Doh comes right off a plastic doll’s face easily with no sticking or staining. This little prank is bound to tickle your little ones’ funny bones. It’s also very likely that your Elf’s shenanigans will spark a Play Doh party. You can check off planning your toddlers’ morning activity- it’s going to be Play Doh. You can even add to the play doh fun with this Play Doh Ginger Bread House!

Christmas Trees For Sale

Elf on the Shelf Little Debbie Christmas Tree Sale — Christmas Trees For Sale From Paper Heart Family

As a cake lover, this idea is absolutely going to be implemented in my house. As a work smarter, not harder kind of mom, I love how EASY this is too! Get yourself a box of Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cakes and your good to go. Sure there’s a little sign to make, but that’s could be just a little piece of paper. ALSO, wouldn’t it be great to have your kids “buy” their trees from the Elf with acts of kindness?! Like, oh you helped your sister find some socks? Go get your tree cake you beautiful, helpful child. I love it. Sign me up!

Natural Beach Living Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Teens

We can’t forget the older kids! When I was a teenager, Elf on the Shelf was just gaining popularity. My mom had a random stuffed Christmas Elf that she began hiding around the house, and we had so much fun with it. She actually still hides it, and her ADULT children all look for that sucker whenever we visit. All this to say, ABSOLUTELY continue to do Elf on the Shelf with your older children. Even if they act like they’re too cool for it, I know they secretly love it! Here are a few Elf ideas for teens from Natural Beach Living. You can get the complete list here!

An Elf Shave

Elf on the Shelf Gets a Shave — Elf Shave From Natural Beach Living

Even your teen will find the idea of an Elf learning to shave endearing. I’m definitely filing this cute idea away for the future.

Elf R&R

Elf on the Shelf Rest and Relaxation — Elf R&R From Natural Beach Living

Unlike toddlers, teenagers understand the value of some good old rest and relaxation. They might be inspired to go put their feet up when they find their Elf like this!

Simple Elf Christmas Countdown

Elf on the Shelf Christmas Countdown — Elf Christmas Countdown From Natural Beach Living

This Elf idea for teens is SO easy, and yet will add just the right amount of festive fun to you and your teens’ daily lives. Each day they could find their Elf in a new location, anticipation building as the number of days until Christmas falls lower and lower.

Happy Elf on the Shelf-ing!

Now you are locked and loaded with lots of new, lots of simple Elf on the Shelf ideas. You are going to rock your kids’ world this year. Whatever, you try from the list, we would love to hear all about it! Feel free to share photos and your kids’ reactions with us in the comments!

Spread the Christmas Magic and Share!

Know other families who are blessed with an Elf? Share these ideas with them, too! Everyone deserves a little bit of Christmas magic. Spread the cheer and make another Mom’s life a little bit easier this holiday season. Don’t forget to pin this list for future reference!