If you’re like me, you’re probably feeling a little bit of Elf On The Shelf fatigue this year. The novelty of having an elf watching your every move has worn off, and you just don’t have the energy to come up with new ideas. Never fear! We’ve got you covered with these lazy Elf On The Shelf ideas that will make both you AND your kids happy this holiday season!
What is the story behind Elf on the Shelf Anyway?
The story of Elf on the Shelf begins with a book, written in 2005 by Carol Aebersold and Chanda Bell. The book tells the story of how Santa’s elves come to live in homes around the world during the Christmas season.
Each night, while the kids are sleeping, the elves fly back to the North Pole to report on whether the children have been naughty or nice. Then, each morning, they fly back to their homes to watch over the children during the day. The book comes with its own Elf on the Shelf doll, which helps bring the story to life for kids.
A fun idea from Frugal Coupon Living. Elves love sweet things especially syrups!
What are some lazy, quick Elf on the Shelf ideas?
1. Elf on the Shelf in a Christmas stocking.
2. Elf on the Shelf eating candy canes.
3. Elf on the Shelf playing with wrapping paper.
4. Elf on the Shelf hiding in a Christmas wreath.
5. Elf on the Shelf hanging from a ceiling fan.
6. Elf on the Shelf in a mug of hot cocoa.
7. Elf on the Shelf with a note from Santa.
8. Elf on the Shelf sleeping in a cozy bed.
9. Elf on the Shelf peeking out from behind a door.
10. Elf on the Shelf making snow angels.
🎄What are the “least lazy” Elf on the Shelf ideas?
1. Have your Elf on the Shelf write a note to your child each day
2. Leave small presents for your child from the Elf on the Shelf
3. Put your Elf on the Shelf in creative places around your house
4. Take pictures of your Elf on the Shelf and post them online
5. Make an Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt for your kids
6. Give your Elf on the Shelf a silly name
7. Have your Elf on the Shelf play pranks on other family members
8. Make a game out of trying to find where the Elf on the Shelf is hiding each day
9. Create an elf costume for your child to wear
10. Have a special ” Elf on the Shelf” breakfast or dinner.
🚫What are some things you should NOT do with your Elf on the Shelf?
1. Don’t leave the elf in the SAME spot!!
2. Don’t let your kids touch the Elf on the Shelf – they’re supposed to be magical creatures and if they’re touched they could lose their powers. There is a jar you can purchase to put him in in case somene breaks this rule!
3. Don’t put your Elf on the Shelf in any dangerous situations – like near candles, hot stoves, or sharp objects.
4. Don’t give your Elf on the Shelf bad behavior – like having them steal cookies or make messes around the house. You want to set a good example for your kids!
5. Don’t have your Elf on the Shelf do anything that would require you to move furniture or make any permanent changes to your home – like painting walls or putting up holiday decorations.
6. Don’t put your Elf on the Shelf in a place where they could get wet – like the bathtub, shower, or pool.
Use gift wrap!! This idea is from The Dragon Mama, this idea is easy and used items we all have on hand this time of year! You can even have your elf in the process of wrapping gifts or (really anything around the house) with scissors and tape.
Make it funny and wrap the tape ALL AROUND your elf to make it look like he didn’t know what he was doing.
What are the two rules for the Elf on the Shelf?
1. The Elf on the Shelf can only be moved when everyone is asleep.
2. If the Elf on the Shelf is touched, they could lose their magical powers. So make sure you do not let your children see you moving or touching the elf!
Also from, Frugal Coupon Living. this is a popular way to have fun but with minimal effort. A snow angel with regular old flour! Your elf might get a bit messy but it’s all in good fun!
Do parents move elfs on the shelves?
Yes! Spoiler alert! They’re aren’t actually magical. 🤣
Parents are responsible for moving the Elf on the Shelf EVERY night!
The Elf on the Shelf is not supposed to be moved during the day, as they’re supposed to be watching over the kids. Parents should move the Elf on the Shelf to a new location each night, and some families like to put small presents or notes from the Elf in their child’s stocking each morning.
Do you have to give your elf a name?
No, you don’t have to give your Elf on the Shelf a name, but I recommend it! If you give your Elf on the Shelf a name, it can help make them feel more like a real member of your family. Some popular Elf on the Shelf names include Elfie, Jingle, and Buddy.
Final Lazy Elf on the Self Tips!
1. Get an Elf on the Shelf book to help you come up with ideas. There are so many fun and creative ideas in these books!
2. Set up your Elf on the Shelf scene before you go to bed, that way you’re not rushed in the morning.
3. Don’t forget to take pictures of your Elf on the Shelf each night – it’s a fun way to document their antics and see how much your kids enjoy them!
4. Most importantly, have fun with it! The Elf on the Shelf is supposed to be a fun holiday tradition for the whole family.
5. If you’re ever feeling stuck, there are lots of great Elf on the Shelf ideas on Pinterest.