Keeping Your Elf on the Shelf Shenanigans Straight

 

The holiday season is in full swing and because there isn’t enough happening, it’s time for those scout elves to come back. Let me guess….you’re also the lucky one who gets to help your elf out when they visit? Well if you’re like me, I can’t keep my own family straight, let alone an elf family too! I’m sharing some tips to help you make your elf visit as painless as possible – there’s even a free Elf on the Shelf calendar!

Need some activity ideas for your elf to bring? Try these ones.

 

Gather Your Thoughts

Head on over to Pinterest to see what kind of shenanigans the other elves are up to. (I’ve got a whole board of ideas for you!)  Pin the things that interest you when you see them.  When you need an idea, come back to your board and scroll through for some ideas. 

Get a Plan

Once you have your ideas, get a plan together.  I like knowing I’ve got things on hand so that moving the elf isn’t a bigger hassle than it needs to be.  Even if you don’t do them in order, print out this free Elf on the Shelf idea calendar and mark the days off as you use those ideas. 

Print Some Accessories

Every elf needs to be a little bit extra.  I know it can’t just be ours who are… You don’t have to spend a bunch of money on different kits and accessories to give your elves some things to do.  I’ve got a bunch of different free Elf on the Shelf props that you can print out.  Regular copy paper will work, but card stock is probably better to make them a little more sturdy.  If you’re feeling a little extra yourself, you can personalize the props to make them even more fun. 

Go Straight to the Source

If you still don’t have enough ideas, go straight to the source! The Elf on the Shelf site has a bunch of ideas and printables for you. There are props, coloring pages, and lots of other fun, free things there for your elf. 

Document It All 

Keep track of all that hard work with lots of pictures.  Pictures of your elf doing crazy things. Videos of your kids finding the elf (or elves).  You’ll cherish these pictures and the magic they capture for year.  They’ll also help you in the future when you need some ideas for your elves. 

 

What’s your elf’s favorite thing to do during the holidays?  Make sure to join the Always Moving Mommas Facebook group to see what everyone else’s elves are up to!