Elf on the Shelf has become a well-established tradition in many families since the book was published in 2005. The Elf hides in a new spot each day, waiting for kids to find him, and he returns to the North Pole each night to report on his family’s behaviour.
Welcoming Your Elf
Usually, the Elf puts in his first appearance on the 1st December, and it is a nice idea to give him a proper welcome with a special North Pole breakfast. His arrival is your opportunity to get creative, perhaps have him parachute down from a light fitting, complete with his note from Santa. Don’t forget to write a note from your Elf to your kids or look online as there are lots of printable notes that will save time.
Hiding Your Elf Each Night
It is up to you as to how creative you want to become. Some parents plan a month of hiding places or scenes, and there are downloadable calendars online. Others hide the Elf somewhere new each night without any planning. Possible activities for your Elf include zip lining, using a piece of string and clothes pegs. Perhaps he will roll downstairs in a toilet roll. You could dress up the Elf as your child’s favourite superhero. Maybe he likes fishing for goldfish crackers or set him up to play a game with a favourite stuffed animal. An idea we especially like is setting him up in the bathroom, just about to brush his teeth!