It’s that time of year again. The return of the elf (or elves, if like us you have to have at least one elf for every child). Don’t get me wrong, I actually really enjoy Elf on the Shelf, and having to think of different things for them to get up to every year. But it can also be extremely time consuming and exhausting. Particularly when there’s already so much going on at this time of year. There are, however, a few tips that can help make it a bit less stressful and help everyone enjoy the fun side
Keep it simple
The setups don’t have to be overly complicated or time consuming, sometimes the simple setups are the best. Hide and seek is always a family favourite, you can keep it very simple, or if you want to add a little something then come up with some clues as to where the elves are hiding. Either way it’s simple but fun.
Have a plan
Whether you’re keeping it simple or want to go a bit extra, make sure you have a plan. That way you know day to day what the plan is. I also find it useful to have a mix of ideas, so that if you are in a bit of a push for time then you have a simple idea as backup. It also ensures that you can get any props together in time so that you know you are completely prepared for the elves. With everything else we have to remember at this time of year, it’s always good to be able to take the pressure off wherever possible.
Check your calendar
This one might sound a little bit odd, but check your calendar for any events going on in the run up to Christmas and have your elves “announce” it that day, or celebrate it in someway. In the past I’ve used parties, visits to Santa, sleepovers at Nana’s, and even the school nativity as ideas to dress the elves up. If you’ve got any birthdays before Christmas you can also incorporate those. Maybe have the elves arrive with a cake, or a letter with telling them how they’re going to spend their birthday.
Pinterest is your best friend
If you’re struggling for ideas then Pinterest is such a valuable tool. You can find ideas for every scenario; looking for last minute ideas? toddler friendly ideas? maybe you have older kids who are possibly past believing but you’re still carrying on the elf tradition and looking for something a bit funnier. Whatever it is, there is literally ideas for every situation. It’s also worth having a look on Facebook, as there are plenty of groups sharing ideas of ideas, as well as the best value props they’ve managed to find.
For some of the ideas I’ve found in the past here’s the link to my elf on the shelf Pinterest board:
Keep a log
Keep a log of any of the mischief your elves get up to. It helps you think of ideas in future years, but you can also add notes of which ones went down the best.
Make use of stuff you already have
It can be easy to end up spending a small fortune on props for your elf. Have a look around to see whether there is anything you can use, raid those kitchen cupboards to create a hot chocolate station. Get the elves involved in baking. Even toilet roll can be used for several different ideas. If you’re looking for backdrops there are plenty of free printable options available as opposed to buying the official scenery books.
Remember: an elf is for life
Or at the very least until your kids stop believing. As the years go on, it can be tricky to keep thinking of new ideas. I’d say I maybe found the first 4 years were much easier to think of new ideas. But now we are at a point where some are going to be recycled. Yes, there are probably lots of ideas I could still do. But we are also at the point where there have been some set ups in past years the kids have particularly liked and keep talking about, so some of those will be on repeat this year.
Have fun
At the end of the day, Elf on the Shelf is meant to be fun. If you’re not a fan, there’s no pressure. If you do choose to take part, make it your own. Jump right in and just have fun creating a Christmas with your family.
Life as a SEN mum 
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