START 7 DAY FREE TRIAL

Activities

Best Elf On The Shelf Ideas

Written By: happycamper

The Elf on the Shelf tradition brings holiday magic into homes everywhere. If you’re looking for tried-and-true ideas that are easy to pull off, we’ve got you covered!

Here are 10 of the most classic Elf on the Shelf setups to inspire your festive fun.

marshmallows#1 Marshmallow Snowball Fight

Set up your elf with a few mini marshmallows scattered around like snowballs. You can pair your elf with another toy or stuffed animal to create a battle scene.

#2 Elf in a Bowl of Cereal

Sit your elf in a cereal bowl filled with your family’s favorite breakfast cereal. Add a tiny spoon, and it’s breakfast time for your elf!

#3 Elf TPing the Christmas Tree

Wrap a roll of toilet paper around the tree, making it look like your elf got into some holiday mischief. It’s simple and always gets a laugh.

#4 Elf Taking a Marshmallow Bath

Fill a sink or small container with marshmallows and set your elf inside, as if they’re relaxing in a luxurious bath. Add a mini towel for extra cuteness.

#5 Elf Reading a Tiny Book

Prop your elf up with a miniature book or even a piece of paper folded like a book. You can write a short story or poem inside for a personalized touch.

flour angels#6 Elf Making Snow Angels in Flour

Sprinkle flour on the countertop and position your elf to look like they’ve been making snow angels. Add a little hand-drawn outline to complete the effect.

#7 Elf in the Fridge

Place your elf in the fridge surrounded by milk, eggs, or even some holiday treats. Give them a scarf or earmuffs to show they’re braving the “cold.”

#8 Elf Riding a Toy Sleigh

Use a small sleigh or even a makeshift one made from a tissue box. Position your elf as if they’re mid-ride, complete with a few reindeer toys leading the way.

#9 Elf Coloring a Picture

Set your elf at the kids’ craft table with some crayons and a coloring book. Position them mid-coloring for a creative scene that’s easy to assemble.

#10 Elf Hanging from the Ceiling Fan

Attach your elf to a ceiling fan blade with a ribbon or tape, making it look like they’re swinging. Just remember not to turn it on!

These timeless ideas are easy to recreate and sure to bring joy to kids and adults alike.

Tagged:- activities, elf on the shelf, holidays

RELATED ARTICLES

Activities

Arts and crafts

Winter-Inspired Arts and Crafts for Campers

Winter is the perfect season to slow down, get creative, and explore arts and crafts inspired by snowy landscapes, cozy traditions, and winter wildlife. Whether campers are spending time outdoors at winter camp or staying warm inside, winter-themed crafts help build creativity, fine motor skills, and a sense of seasonal wonder. Below are fun, age-appropriate […]

Activities

Outdoor adventure

New Year, New Adventures: Outdoor Skills Kids Can Practice in Winter

The New Year is the perfect time to try something new—and winter offers its own exciting outdoor classroom for kids. While summer may be camp season, winter is ideal for building confidence, creativity, and practical outdoor skills that kids can practice right in their own backyard or at a winter camp. From snow science to […]

Read More...

Activities

Family activities

Winter Camp Activities to Keep Kids Active Indoors

When winter weather keeps campers inside, staying active can feel like a challenge—but indoor camp activities can be just as energizing, creative, and fun. With the right mix of movement, teamwork, and imagination, indoor winter camp activities help kids burn energy, build skills, and stay engaged even when it’s cold outside. Below are high-energy indoor […]

Read More...

Activities

Outdoor adventure

Exploring Nighttime Skies: Stargazing Tips for Winter

Winter is one of the best times of year for stargazing. The air is crisp and clear, making stars look brighter and constellations easier to spot. Whether you’re camping out at winter camp or enjoying a cozy backyard adventure, exploring the night sky is a magical way for kids to connect with nature and science. […]

Read More...

Activities

Outdoor adventure

How to Stay Warm and Comfortable During Winter Campouts

Winter camping can be an unforgettable adventure—quiet trails, snowy landscapes, and crisp night skies make cold-weather campouts extra special. But staying warm and comfortable is key to actually enjoying the experience. With the right preparation, winter campouts can be just as cozy (and safe) as summer ones. In this guide, we’ll share practical winter camping […]

Read More...

HAPPY CAMPERS

5 Ways To Be Healthy In Winter

Read More...

New Year’s Eve Indoor Party Games for Kids

Read More...

Learn How To Play The Guitar

Read More...

Easy Ways For Kids To Connect With Nature

Read More...

categories

Activities (277)

Arts and crafts (85)

Camp stories (12)

Camp traditions (24)

Campers (105)

Cooking (50)

Education (6)

Family activities (93)

Featured camps (12)

Gift Guides (12)

Music (9)

Outdoor adventure (44)

Parents (64)

Podcast (25)

School (17)

Science (16)

Sports (32)

STEM (13)

Water sports (1)