70 + Creative Elf on the Shelf Ideas

During the holiday season, families read the book, ‘The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition” by Carol V. Aebersold and Chanda A. Bell. The book comes with a Scout Elf doll. Families get to pick a name for their new elf friend, who hides in fun places around the house.

Looking for even more ideas?

Check out 100+ Fun & Easy Elf On The Shelf Ideas

The Tradition

Elf on the shelf watches over children during the day, and when the kids are asleep, they fly to Santa and report if the kids are good or bad. The elves return home by the morning and hide again for the kids to come find when they wake up.

Some people listen to Christmas music, some bake cookies, shop, or watch their favorite movie to get in the holiday mood. For other's it's the Elf on the Shelf. A friend my previous career, the wonderful world of teaching, Tammy is an expert when it comes to Elf on the Shelf.

Elf On The Shelf Ideas

Here are 70 + creative ways she moved her Elf around for her kiddos. They named their Elf, Max and every year he comes back right before the holidays.

70+ creative ideas for Elf on the Shelf.

Elf on The Shelf Details

Elf on the Shelf is a way to help kids stay on their best behavior during the holiday season. The story explains that each night, the Scout Elf flies to the North Pole and reports to Santa so he can keep track of his “Nice List.” Parents will move the elf around the home each day from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve.

The elf is meant to be in a place where they can watch the children and know if they are being naughty or nice. Don’t be afraid to get creative and have fun with placing your elf! You can decorate so that it appears that the elf is doing an activity, like climbing a bookshelf or sledding down the banister.

70 + Creative Elf On The Shelf Ideas

Check out the photo gallery below for ideas including a welcome back party, the secret Agent elf putting a Santa Cam ornament on the tree, Elf in the kitchen! Ever tried making Rice Krispies look like a tree?, post it note crazy, Elf working on a couple Build to Grow kits from Lowes, the Elf throwing an Ugly Sweater Party, elf rock Climbing. elf competing in a diving competition and so much more!!!

An elf showcasing creative Elf on the Shelf ideas by flying a kite in the air.

Elf on the shelf with Pokemon toys and a sign, featuring creative Elf on the Shelf ideas.

Naming The Elf On The Shelf

Naming your new elf is a very important job, so here is a list of cute elf names for inspiration! Remember, to have fun with the name and pick something you can use over and over.

For these photos, we used the name, Max. It was just three letters which became very helpful when spelling it out for ideas. If you need some inspiration check out my list of 100 + cute names for your elf.