Every year, I start pinning new Elf on the Shelf ideas to one of my boards. We keep things simple but I do look to the internet for more ideas when I want to be a little creative. This year, I’ve compiled a list of Elf on the Shelf ideas that you can use at home with your own elf!
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What is the Elf on the Shelf?
The Elf on the Shelf is a fun tradition that many families participate in around the holidays. You also have a group that’s not a fan of the elf and there are several alternatives to the elf as well. I’m a big fan of the “you do you” thought process, so no judgement here with whatever traditions your family enjoy this time of year! We do enjoy having fun with our little elves which is where the inspiration for this post came from. Follow along on Instagram to see what our elves are up to this year!

Hello Elf!
Arrival day is a big one for our elves! Many families make this day special even if the other days are kept simple. Our elf always brings a new book and holiday pajamas for the kids – simple but fun! Below you’ll find Elf on the Shelf ideas for arrival day in your own home or classroom.

Elf on the Shelf Arrival Letters
Another Elf on the Shelf Arrival Letter
140 Names for Your Elf on the Shelf
Elf on the Shelf Ideas and Printables
Sometimes we just need a little inspiration before we move our elf to a new place. The ideas and printables below are a great starting spot for inspiration. A few of them even give you a day by day plan for your Elf on the Shelf!

Elf in Sick background (pictured above)
Printable Calendar of Activities
Elf on the Shelf Photo Template
Elf on the Shelf Printable Props
Super Easy Elf on the Shelf Hacks
Letters & Notes from Your Elf
Some people like to have their elf communicate via letters and notes. Our little elf typically brings notes when the kids need an extra message – such as on arrival day.

Elf on the Shelf Letter Templates
Elf on the Shelf Bad Behavior Letters
Saying Goodbye to the Elf
Saying goodbye to the elf is another special time in many homes. We allow our kids to touch and play with the elf on the last day before he returns to the North Pole. His return date varies each year based on what’s going on in our schedule. Below are a few more ideas for saying goodbye to your elf!

Goodbye Elf on the Shelf Poems
Elf on the Shelf Hot Chocolate Gift
Do you do the Elf on the Shelf in your home? If you do, I’d love to hear your fun ideas in the comments below!
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