The Elf on the Shelf tradition involves families adopting a toy “Scout Elf” who watches children’s behavior by day and flies back to the North Pole each night to report to Santa.
Each morning the Elf returns in a new spot or pose, inspiring families to create fun “Elf ideas” – simple scenes or activities featuring everyday items.
This playful tradition is very popular (over one-third of U.S. families with young children have a “friendly scout elf,” many of whom call the elf part of a fun holiday routine). For busy parents, the challenge of hiding the elf can even become a creative delight.
Ive collected 41 easy elf on the shelf ideas use common household items and minimal effort, covering a mix of themes—silly and funny setups, acts of kindness, a Christian or Nativity focus, low-mess scenes, interactive activities, toddler-friendly antics, and classic holiday touches (like snow, gifts and candy canes).
Each idea is easy to set up and sure to surprise kids on those early December mornings.
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1. Elf Reading the Bible (Christian)
Place the elf with an open children’s Bible or Christmas storybook (or a Bible app on a tablet) so it looks like the elf is reading about the Nativity.
Kids will see their elf sitting cross-legged or perched on a bookstand with the Bible open to a Christmas story or verse.
This gentle, Christian-themed scene reminds children of the true meaning of Christmas. (It can be even more special if you mark a simple Christmas verse for the elf to “read” with a child.)
2. Elf at the Nativity Scene (Christian)
Set the elf up next to your household nativity set (or a small baby Jesus figurine), kneeling or bowing in wonder at the baby Jesus. This shows the elf paying tribute at the manger, keeping Jesus at the center of Christmas.
It’s an easy scene: just place the elf among the Nativity figurines (wise men, shepherds, etc.) so it looks as if the elf is worshiping or gazing lovingly at the infant Jesus.
Even very young children will get a heartwarming message each morning.
3. Elf Leaves Kindness Notes (Kindness)
Have the elf cover a bathroom mirror or bulletin board with little sticky notes or paper hearts containing kind messages (“You’re awesome!”, “Have a great day!”, etc.).
Kids wake up to find their elf writing compliments or thank-you notes, encouraging them to spread positivity.
This setup simply requires paper/notes and a pen – the elf holds a pen or stands next to the notes. It uses minimal materials but creates a powerful, kindness-focused scene.
4. Elf Donates Toys (Kindness)
Use a small box or bin labeled “Toys to Donate” and arrange the elf beside it with a toy in hand.
The elf can be caught in the act of packing a beloved stuffed animal or Lego set into the box, encouraging kids to give to others.
(Tip: You can involve kids by using actual outgrown toys in the box.) The elf might even hold a sign saying “Let’s share!” or a note from Santa about being generous. This scene shows the elf modeling charity and kindness with an everyday gesture.
5. Elf Bakes Sharing Cookies (Kindness)
Pretend your elf has been baking! Set the elf next to a few homemade cookies or a plate of treats (use real cookies, or make paper cutouts of cookies). Scatter a bit of flour or cookie crumbs on the counter for effect.
The elf could hold a mixing spoon or stand by the oven mitt. Add a small note saying “Let’s share our Christmas cookies!” or “For our neighbors!” to tie in the kindness theme.
This idea encourages children to bake or share treats, and it’s easy – just use leftover cookies or ingredients from your kitchen.
6. Elf Celebrates Jesus’s Birthday (Christian)
Give the elf a tiny cupcake or a small “birthday cake” (even a candle attached to a block) and let it carry or serve it by the Christmas tree. Add a sign or note that says “Happy Birthday, Jesus!” to emphasize the meaning.
The elf can be posed with arms outstretched, offering the cake. This cute scene reminds kids that Christmas is Jesus’s birthday, blending fun and faith. You can use a real cupcake or simply craft one from paper or play dough.
7. Elf in a Marshmallow Bath (Funny)
Fill a small bowl (or half a plastic bowl) with mini marshmallows to look like a bubble bath, and sit the elf in it as if relaxing.
Scatter a few marshmallows around for “bubbles.” This silly, low-effort setup uses edible bits as props, so cleanup is easy (kids can help eat the marshmallows!).
The elf might wear a towel or hold a rubber duckie (if you have a toy), but even without props it looks cute: the elf simply enjoying a “hot tub” of fluffy marshmallows.
8. Elf Makes a Snow Angel (Funny)
Sprinkle a thin layer of flour or powdered sugar on the counter or table and lay the elf down with arms and legs spread to make a “snow angel” print. Use a finger to draw wing shapes or imprints around it for effect.
The elf can wear a little paper scarf or ear muff drawn on. This setup is quick and uses common kitchen pantry items for “snow.” Kids will delight in discovering their elf lying in the flour as if making an angel, complete with little dough-face imprints.
9. Elf Zip-Lines Across the Room (Funny)
Tie a piece of string, twine or dental floss between two points (e.g. top of a doorframe and a bookshelf). Thread a straw or small ribbon through the string, and attach the elf to it with tape or a loop so it can slide.
In the morning, kids find the elf “riding” the zip-line mid-air. You can even add a sign or ribbon saying “Whee!” or place a tiny backpack on the elf. This interactive stunt is a bit more elaborate but easy with string and tape, and it turns the elf into a tiny daredevil for the day.
10. Toilet Paper Snowman (Funny)
Use a few rolls of toilet paper stacked to look like a snowman body, or unwind one roll into a “snow hill” for the elf to lean against. Add a drawn paper “carrot nose,” button eyes (paper dots), and a scrap of fabric for a scarf.
Pose the elf next to the toilet-paper snowman as if they built it together. This idea is low-cost and low-mess since it just reuses normal TP rolls. Kids will laugh seeing the elf with a homemade snowman made of bathroom supplies!
11. Elf in the Fridge (Funny)
Have the elf pop up in the refrigerator (or freezer) to surprise the kids at breakfast. Sit it next to a carton of milk or a bowl of fruit, perhaps clutching a carrot or note.
You could write “Feeling cool?” on a magnet or paper near the elf. This quick setup uses zero prep — just hiding the elf in a chilly spot — but is always a hit for its unexpectedness. (Reminder: Don’t leave the elf in too long out of magic, just long enough for the morning show-and-tell.)
12. Elf Among Christmas Ornaments (Holiday)
Tuck the elf into the Christmas tree branches, among the ornaments and lights. It could be hanging a tiny ornament or using a paperclip as a climbing hook. Alternatively, set it on the tree skirt arranging present tags or baubles.
This scene is very low effort: the elf simply blends into holiday decor. It fills the tree with another “decoration” and delights kids to spot the elf peeking out of the tinsel.
13. Elf Storytime with Stuffed Friends (Interactive/Toddler)
Gather a few stuffed animals or dolls and prop them around the elf. Set the elf with a small open storybook (or just a piece of paper made into a “book”) as if it is reading aloud. You can even put sunglasses or glasses on the elf for fun.
This easy, sweet scene invites toddlers into pretend play — it shows the elf “telling a story” to its toy pals. Use any kids’ book or a hand-drawn picture book for the elf to “read,” and arrange soft toys in a semicircle.
14. Elf Wrapped in a Toilet Paper Blanket (Funny/Toddler)
Wrap the elf in a small piece of toilet paper or tissue as if it’s cozy under a blanket. Lay it on a doll bed or inside a tiny cardboard box bed with mini blankets.
This uses common household tissues and a shoebox or small tray as a bed. The sight of the elf tucked in for sleep is adorable and totally mess-free. Kids will find it funny to see their elf “sleeping” in the morning, blankets and all.
15. Elf’s Train Reindeer Sleigh (Holiday)
Turn a toy train or car into Santa’s sleigh: sit the elf in the “engine” or front car, and attach other toy cars as reindeer. Use cotton balls or pipe cleaner antlers and a red pom-pom for Rudolph’s nose on the lead car.
Lay some ribbon or yarn as reins. The result is an instant elf-tiny-sleigh scene using common toys. Kids will love seeing their elf “driving” the train with a team of reindeer, ready to deliver presents.
16. Elf Builds a Mini Snowman (Holiday)
Give the elf a snowman-building project: place two or three mini marshmallows (or cotton balls) stacked as snowman body. Add a tiny bit of carrot as a nose and two chocolate chips or raisins for eyes.
Prop toothpicks or small sticks as arms. The elf can be posed patting or arranging the snowman. It’s like a mini sculpture station on the counter. This scene uses snack items to look like a snowman and is quick for kids to help “finish” if they wake early (eat the marshmallows!).
17. Elf Doodles on a Family Photo (Funny)
Have the elf leave a big dry-erase or chalk pen mark on a glass photo frame or mirror. Draw a mustache or funny hat on a family photo or mirror photo. Position the elf holding the marker or standing nearby.
Children will laugh at the harmless prank: the elf drew on their pictures! This idea is super low-effort (assuming you have dry-erase or window markers) and instantly creates a funny surprise. Just make sure it wipes off easily when it’s time to clean up.
18. Elf’s Mirror Message (Funny)
Write a short message or joke on the bathroom mirror in lipstick or whiteboard marker (e.g. “Smile! – Elf” or “Gotcha!”). Place the elf nearby with a tiny memo or the lipstick tube in hand. In the morning, kids see their elf has written a note on the mirror.
This simple trick adds humor (and maybe a gentle reminder, like “Did you brush your teeth?”). Use easy-to-clean markers so parents can wipe it off without a fuss.
19. Coffee for Grown-Ups (Funny)
If you drink coffee, set a (cold) coffee mug with a used tea bag or some coffee inside and place the elf sipping from it. Add some googly eyes to the coffee or a straw in the mug.
The elf can hold a note reading “That’s why coffee is for grown-ups!” (a joke from a popular holiday movie). Kids will be amused to see the elf enjoying “grown-up coffee.” This setup uses a real mug and leftover coffee—no need to make new coffee. It’s quick and funny for parents and older kids.
20. Elf Says “No Screen Time” (Interactive)
Wrap the TV remote or a tablet in a note from “Santa” (like a ransom note style) saying that “screen time is suspended today.” Sit the elf next to the wrapped gadget looking stern.
This signals a playful screen-time break. It’s interactive in that kids will have to find alternate fun (maybe play with their toys or craft until noon). This idea uses just a piece of paper and your child’s device, so it’s zero mess but can encourage kids to read or play instead.
21. Elf Introduces a New Book (Interactive)
Place the elf holding or pointing to a new holiday picture book or a favorite storybook, perhaps wrapped like a gift. Add a note from the elf that reads “A special Christmas story!” or “Time to read!”
This is a delightful way to introduce a new book or remind kids about reading. It’s interactive because it invites them to sit down and read with the elf. No elaborate setup needed—just pick a book from your shelf (or wrap a new one to “deliver” as a present).
22. Elf Decorates the Christmas Tree (Holiday)
Have the elf “help” with tree decorating. For example, drape a small string of beads or a tiny garland across the elf’s hands, or let it hold an ornament. You can set the elf midway on the ladder (or chair) by the tree.
Even simpler: just place it under the tree surrounded by some small ornaments. This easy scene uses tree decorations and a toy ladder or stepstool for placement. It looks like the elf was busy adding tinsel or lights to the tree overnight, adding to the holiday atmosphere.
23. Elf Candy Cane Scavenger Hunt (Candy/Holiday)
Have the elf hide a few candy canes around a room for the kids to find. In the morning, the elf holds a clue or map (draw one on paper) and some candy cane “fence.” For example, place the elf with a crayon-drawn map showing hidden candy canes.
Kids then go on a mini scavenger hunt to collect the canes. This interactive idea uses nothing more than candy canes and paper, and it gives them a fun morning activity – plus a sweet treat at each spot.
24. Elf Writes with LEGO Bricks (Interactive)
Use LEGO or other building blocks to spell out a message (like “HI!” or “MERRY”) on a counter or table. Pose the elf next to the bricks with a finger pointing at the message. Kids will love that the elf “built” something for them.
This idea is easy for any building blocks you have, and you can change the message each day. It encourages letter recognition and building skills as kids notice the elf’s creation and maybe help make their own messages.
25. Elf’s Hot Cocoa Bar (Interactive)
Set up the elf behind a small “cocoa station”: place a mug, marshmallows, hot cocoa mix packets (or a jar of cocoa), and a note that says “Let’s make cocoa!” in front of it. The elf can be wearing a spoon or marshmallow on a fork.
This invites kids to join in by making hot chocolate together that morning. It’s interactive and fun, and the ingredients are everyday items (cocoa mix, mugs, marshmallows). Even if you skip making drinks, the scene itself (with empty mugs and supplies) is charming and totally mess-free until you pour.
26. Elf Crafts with Kids (Interactive)
Leave the elf amidst some craft supplies: crayons, paper, stickers, or pipe cleaners. The elf might hold a crayon or “draw” with a scribbled coloring page beside it. Attach a note like “Time to craft!” This encourages children to do an art activity.
It’s low-effort because you’re simply setting out supplies you already have. Kids wake up excited to see their elf has planned a creative morning, and they can immediately start coloring or making holiday crafts (with the elf “joining” in).
27. Elf’s Stuffed Animal Sleepover (Toddler)
Arrange a few stuffed animals or dolls with pillows and a small blanket or paper “blanket.” Lie the elf down among them as if they’re all having a sleepover. This cozy setup is toddler-friendly: maybe the elf is tucked into a tiny box-bed or under a handkerchief tent.
It looks like the elf invited its toy friends for a slumber party. Toddlers will smile waking to see their elf snuggling with their favorite plush pals. No special props are needed beyond a blanket and toys.
28. Elf Sliding on a Spoon (Funny)
Balance the elf on a large spoon propped on a pile of flour or sugar, so it looks like a sled going down a slope. You can angle a cutting board or the countertop edge as the “hill,” and let some sugar sprinkle behind for snow spray.
The elf looks like it’s zooming down the spoon-runner. This quick scene uses kitchen items and looks action-packed and funny, as if the elf grabbed a ride on your ladle for a snow day adventure.
29. Elf Caught in a Jar (Funny)
Place the elf inside an empty jar or clear container with the lid slightly askew, as if caught in a “trap.” Add a note that says “Trapped!” or draw a funny trap (like a cardboard box propped with a stick).
Kids will find the elf peering out from behind the glass, maybe “helping” them by pointing out a secret cookie jar. This silly scene is easy: just use a clean jar and drop the elf in. It’s a low-mess joke that never fails to amuse.
30. Elf Napping in a Shoe (Low-Effort)
Put the elf inside a large sneaker or boot as if it’s taking a nap. You can place a tissue or small cloth under it as a pillow. Kids will giggle to see their elf snoozing among their footwear.
This is one of the simplest ideas – no setup beyond choosing a shoe. It’s perfect for very sleepy mornings when parents need a five-second idea. The elf just needs to be carefully placed into the shoe the night before.
31. Elf Taking a Nap (Low-Effort)
Let the elf simply lie down as if sleeping. You could place it on a pillow, a cozy chair, or even a mini bed made from a box. Wrap it in a tissue or leaf one arm under its head.
The scene looks like the elf got tired and went to bed. This requires virtually no props (any small soft surface will do). It’s a restful, low-key setup that still makes kids smile seeing their elf catching some z’s.
32. Elf in a Tape Spider-Web (Funny)
Create a “spider web” using clear tape or string stretched across a doorway or corner. Attach the elf in the middle as if it’s tangled. You can drape the tape in crisscross patterns and wrap it loosely around the elf’s limbs.
This looks like the elf got trapped trying to climb. The kids will get a kick out of “rescuing” the elf from the sticky web. It’s a quick, playful prank that uses just a roll of tape or yarn.
33. Elf Swinging on a Candy Cane (Holiday)
Hook a candy cane or two together with tape or a rubber band, then hang it from a shelf or cabinet as a swing. Sit the elf on or hold onto the candy cane handle as if it’s swinging.
In the morning, kids will find their elf on a makeshift swing made from candy. It’s both a holiday and funny theme (using candy canes) and is very simple. You could even give the elf a small paper sign saying “Whee!” for extra cuteness.
34. Elf in a Snowy Cotton Scene (Holiday)
Spread a layer of cotton balls or fluffy batting on a table or counter to look like snow. Place the elf on top, maybe making “footprints” by gently pressing its feet in the cotton.
Add a few sprigs of greenery for “trees” or set tiny gift boxes around. The elf can hold a small paper snowflake or a drink with a straw. This scene turns everyday cotton into a snowy backdrop. It’s holiday-themed and looks magical (plus it’s very low-mess, since the cotton is reusable).
35. Elf’s Thank-You Card Station (Kindness)
Set out envelopes, paper, and markers or crayons next to the elf, with some already-drawn hearts or a half-written holiday card. Pose the elf holding a crayon or pen, as if it’s teaching kids to write thank-you notes.
Maybe the elf has a note saying “Let’s say thank you!” or a stack of cards. This promotes gratitude by encouraging kids to write cards to family and friends. All you need is paper and writing tools – the Elf is showing how to make and send holiday cards.
36. Elf Stocking Surprise (Holiday)
Tuck the elf into a Christmas stocking hung on the fireplace or a hook. The elf can be peeking out of the stocking cuff, or even helping unwrap a small gift from inside.
You could add a note on the stocking “Surprise!” or place a candy cane beside the elf. This festive scene is very easy: just use your existing stockings. It looks as if the elf climbed into the stocking for a cozy night, and kids will enjoy discovering it before opening presents.
37. Elf Sledding Down the Stairs (Funny)
Place the elf on a sled or a smooth board at the top of a stair rail or a smooth inclined surface (like a sliding board). You can tilt a tray or a book to act as a ramp. Sprinkle a bit of salt or sugar on it as “slush.”
The elf looks mid-ride, holding on to the sled. This playful stunt uses household items (sled toy, book or cardboard) and gives the illusion of an exciting descent. Kids will laugh to see the elf gleefully sledding indoors.
38. Elf Solves a Puzzle (Interactive)
Scatter some jigsaw puzzle pieces on a table with the elf looking at them or holding one. The elf could have a magnifying glass (or just a drawn circle) to “inspect” the pieces.
Add a note saying “Let’s solve this puzzle together!” so kids know it’s an activity. Using any puzzle you have, this encourages kids to finish the puzzle with the elf’s help. It’s a quiet, thoughtful scene and uses common puzzle pieces – no extra props needed.
39. Elf’s Candy Ball Pit (Holiday/Candy)
Fill a small plastic bin or bowl with colorful candy (like M&Ms, jellybeans or wrapped Hershey’s Kisses) and nestle the elf in it as if it’s a candy ball pit. The elf can hold a few candies or be sitting among them with a happy grin.
This bright, sweet scene looks just like an adult ball pit – only with candy. It’s easy (just pour candy from the pantry) and makes a striking visual. Kids will be thrilled to discover the elf in a pool of candy (and it’s a fun excuse to share a few later!).
40. Melted Snowman Scene (Funny)
Set up a “melting snowman” on the counter: use two marshmallows or cotton balls squished flat, with a few small bits beside them (like chocolate chips for “coal” eyes/hat fallen off).
Pose the elf next to the flattening, holding an ice cube or spoon. It looks like the elf is toasting or melting a little snowman. Children will find this hilarious: their elf accidentally “melted” a snowman. This uses snack items (easy cleanup!) and a toy, creating a funny twist on a classic snow theme.
41. Elf on a Candy Cane Slide (Holiday)
Tape two candy canes together to form a slope (hook ends connected, forming a slide). Place the elf at the top of the candy-cane ramp or sliding down. You can angle the candy cane on a plate so it doesn’t roll.
This quick idea makes a holiday-themed slide for the elf, as if it’s sliding on candy. Kids will love spotting their elf on a bright red-and-white slide. It’s a festive prop and nearly no-mess: just a couple of candy canes and tape.
