20+ Elf on the Shelf Ideas That Will Keep Your Kids Entertained 2024

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Every Christmas season, families across America make a tradition of placing an elf on the shelf to keep kids entertained. But there are so many options for this popular family activity! What should you do? We have 20+ different ideas that will keep your children entertained and delighted with their elf!

These are low-key ideas that you can do on the fly but everyone will enjoy!

Everybody knows about Santa’s little helpers, but what about Elf on the Shelf? This holiday season we’re going to share 20+ elf on the shelf ideas that will keep your kids entertained and excited for Christmas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a fun activity for the whole family. This tradition began in 2005 as a children’s Christmas book that comes packaged with a cute elf doll. The story goes that your elf comes to visit from the North Pole to keep watch over your children to report back to Santa how they’ve behaved.

The elf travels back to the North Pole every night and returns in the morning. The important rule is that the children do not touch the elf, or he will lose his magic.

The kids are allowed to talk to the elf, but the main objective is that they are on their best behavior so their elf can report back to Santa.

Does your elf have to naughty?

Because the elf leaves at night your elf should be in a different spot every morning. Some elves are notoriously “naughty” making mischief and mayhem in the home, finding themselves in precarious situations.

While other elves are simply “nice” elves that pop up in fun places doing funny things.

You can even have an extra calm elf who enjoys staying in the same spot for several nights in a row. As the owner of the elf- you can make the rules!

Though if you really detest the idea of the Elf on the Shelf, check out these Elf on the Shelf Alternatives.

Where can you get an Elf on the Shelf

Elf on the Shelf can be found just about any major store- and more convenient it can be found online. The Elf on the Shelf collections has grown to include a pet dog and reindeer as well as several accessories. You can even choose between a girl and a boy elf with different skin colors.

Amazon
Target
Walmart
Kohl’s
Bed, Bath and Beyond
Facebook Marketplace (used or sometimes new)

Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Elf on the Shelf is a tradition your children will love and always remember! But we all know thinking of a fun elf antic for every day can be daunting. Don't let another day pass you by- with this fabulous list of easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas you will be ready to go!