Looking for Elf on the Shelf ideas for Christmas 2023? An Elf on the Shelf is a festive tradition that sees an elf misbehaving around the home in the lead-up to Christmas — and it's great fun for kids.
The idea is that the little elf, adorned in a suitably red outfit and hat, comes to your home at the start of December to keep an eye on children. If you need simple ideas to keep your elf and children entertained each morning, we've found some fun, family-friendly ideas that children will love, and won't take up too much time.
What is Elf on the Shelf?
The concept is based on a book written in 2005 by US author Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bel. The story goes that Santa has sent out helpful little Scout Elves to people's homes to watch whether children have been naughty or nice during December. The idea is that every night they go back to the North Pole to report back to Santa, which helps him know who is on the naughty or nice list.
Then, when they are back in children's homes, they move to a new spot. Some elves are very active and get themselves into funny and often tricky situations, such as getting stuck somewhere or caught eating something. Children will love looking around the house to find out what they've been up to.
The elves go home after Christmas Day when Santa arrives to deliver presents. He takes them back with him to the North Pole, so they're not to be seen again until the next year.
The story from the book has since grown into a real-life activity, as the Scout Elves are available to buy and it soon became a month-long tradition across homes in the UK and beyond.
The gift set includes an adoptable Scout Elf with an official adoption certificate, a keepsake box and a lovely illustrated storybook.
How to start the Elf on the Shelf tradition
Once you've bought the book and the toy, you should read the book together so the children know the story. Then the elf needs to be given a name too.
Children can't touch the elves either, as if they do, the elves will lose their magic. Although they can't talk, the elves are very good at listening, so children can talk to them and whisper secrets and wishes too, which they can take back to Santa.
What to buy for your Elf on the Shelf
There are plenty of accessories you can buy for the elves too, which can help personalise them and help create fun situations. These include a book of tools and tips, expressive T-shirts, snowflake-themed outfits, or even pets for the elves. You can also buy them a traditional red sleigh, or a sleeping bag and swing set among other products.
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The Elf on the Shelf Elf on the Shelf Christmas Tradition Set with Elf Book (Girl with Blue Eyes)
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The Elf on the Shelf Elf on the Shelf Christmas Tradition Set with Elf Book (Girl with Blue Eyes)
Start the fun tradition of Elf on the Shelf this Christmas. Before you read our Elf on the Shelf ideas, why not pick up the original Elf Book and Elf ahead of the holidays?
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The Elf on the Shelf Official Elf on The Shelf Scout Elves at Play 24 Day Kit
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The Elf on the Shelf Official Elf on The Shelf Scout Elves at Play 24 Day Kit
Now 25% Off
Elevate your Christmas tradition with this Scout Elves at Play kit, complete with a 60-page activity book. Perfect to buy ahead of Christmas.
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Elf on the Shelf does retail therapy
Follow this cut out stencil to create some little elf-sized shopping bags.
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Elf on the Shelf tops the Christmas tree
Say goodbye to a traditional star or angel tree topper this year.
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Elf on the Shelf on stilts
This elf is larger than life thanks to a set of stilts made from two rolls of wrapping paper.
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Elf on the shelf makes breakfast
The elves have made a special breakfast for their reindeer friend. What a treat!
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Elf on the Shelf hides in the fridge
An egg-cellent surprise from your Scout Elf!
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Elf on the Shelf's reminder that it's Taco Tuesday
We all love tacos on a Tuesday, right? These little elves are reminding children what day it is, and how best to serve up their favourite dish.
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Elf on the shelf's sack race
Who will win out of all the toys in the house? All you need are some paper bags or even stockings to get the sack race ready.
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Elf on the shelf goes skiing
The elf is ready to take to the slopes. Cotton wool works brilliantly as soft, fluffy snow.
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Elf on the Shelf eats mince pies
Elves love anything festive, and this one has helped himself to some freshly baked mince pies.
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Elf on the Shelf lifts weights
Time for the elf to get in a workout? You can recreate this with some marshmallows and sticks.
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Elf on the Shelf gets magnetic
Sometimes, hiding in plain sight is the best place to hide. Just place a few magnets strategically and you're done.
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Elf on the shelf plays the drums
Got a couple of spare tins and pipe cleaners? Well, you've now got a drum set fit for your elf.
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Elf on the shelf sits for a portrait
Unleash the elf's inner artist by having one elf sit for a portrait while the other paints them.
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Elf on the Shelf in the tumble dryer
This elf has been making friends with the other toys and taking them on the 'ferris wheel', aka, your tumble dryer.
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Elf of the Shelf goes shopping in the cupboards
Get your elf to go on a mini shopping trip... in your cupboards and pantry.
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Elf on the shelf makes a sponge cake
All you need for this fun idea is a dishwashing sponge and some sprinkles or other cake toppings.
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Elf on the Shelf finds the cereals
The elves have found the cereal, but we're not too hopeful they'll clear up the mess.
