Hang in there, Mamas! You’ve got this. I know the thought of moving an elf every night can seem daunting, but I promise it doesn’t have to be difficult to be fun. Our family had so much fun with our Elf on the Shelf. We started it when he was about 9 years old, and continued it until he left for college. My son would request the return of his elf because “it just wouldn’t be Christmas without him.” Melt. My. Heart.
Sweet boy, I would move mountains for you, so if you want an Elf on the Shelf, you’re going to get the best Elf on the Shelf ever. And so we did.
If the thought of creating something completely over-the-top every single night stresses you out, here are some tips (and easy Elf on the Shelf ideas) to help simplify the process for you.
Plan Ahead
Plan the whole month in advance if you can. Make a calendar of your elf’s activities, so you don’t have to use too much brain power every night. Once you have your plan for each day, set a calendar reminder on your phone to remind you to move the elf.
Keep It Simple
The elf can simply move from room to room, hide in the refrigerator, or climb the Christmas tree. It doesn’t have to be complicated.
Use Toys
Toys are going to be your best props. Don’t overthink it. Put him in a toy truck, sit him next to stuffed animals, or stage a fight with a T-rex.
Use What You Have Around the House
One night, a shelf collapsed in the laundry room. Disaster, right? Wrong. Put the elf on top of the mess and viola. Elf on the Shelf mischief — and it was hilarious!
For the Stepmoms
We have our son the majority of the time, but when he would visit his biological mother, I would come up with cute ways for our elf to let my son know that he’d be right there waiting for him when he came back home.
My son would cackle with laughter each morning when he saw the mischief that our elf created. THAT is what it was all about for me. Seeing his face light up was everything. From shredding a snowman to pooping chocolate kisses onto cookies, our elf created some pretty fun memories for our family. Have fun with the Elf on the Shelf. You’ll miss these days when they’re over. I know I do.
Bonus Elf on the Shelf Download
Free downloads: Click the links for a free Elf on the Shelf stationary and Elf on the Shelf Naughty Warning.
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