It’s Christmastime. As you’re planning Christmas, do you know where your Elf on the Shelf is? This list of Elf on the Shelf ideas will help you stay organized this holiday season!

What are you supposed to do with the Elf on the Shelf?
The Elf on the Shelf is an adorable Christmas tradition based on the book, An Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition.
Before Christmas, your family’s elf will come watch your kids. Every night, he (or she) will fly back to the North Pole to help Santa (and give him a report of your kids’ behavior).
You can get an elf for each child or just have one “family elf.” There are boy and girl elves, and you can even get them with different eye colors.
There are also tons of cute Elf on the Shelf costumes, clothes and accessories, and even movies.
Is the Elf on the Shelf a bad idea?
While the Elf on the Shelf is a cute idea, it can quickly become overwhelming for parents. In addition to getting ready for Christmas, the Elf on the Shelf can seem like one more thing to do.
Also, it seems like the Elf on the Shelf has taken over the internet. Parents are posting their Pinterest-worthy elf positions, sharing elf fails, and performing “elf surgery” to modify their elves.
After my kids were sick and I forgot to move my elf for four days in a row, I decided to get more organized with my Elf on a Shelf.
If you’re tired of thinking of creative activities for your elf, or if your elf has forgotten to move for the fourth day in a row, I’ve got you covered!
Elf on the Shelf Stationary
9 Printable “Elf Stationary” Templates Download these adorable (free) printables to write letters to and from your Elf on the Shelf, remember to move your elf, and create good behavior checklists.
Ideas for Elf on the Shelf Names
100+ Cute Names for Your Elf Having trouble deciding on a name for your Elf on the Shelf? This list has funny and cute names for your elf.
Elf on the Shelf Welcome Ideas
5 Ways to Welcome Your Elf When does your Elf on the Shelf come to your house? Help your kids welcome their Christmas elf with these fun ideas.
Elf on the Shelf Accessories
Etsy Elf on the Shelf Kits Get every awesome Elf on the Shelf printable, outfit, and more than you could ever dream up from Etsy.
Fun Accessories for your Elf on the Shelf Bring your elf back for birthdays and fun family events or dress your elf in funny costumes with these adorable elf accessories. There’s everything from elf nurse costumes to support your favorite front line worker, vaccination cards, and hilarious sweatshirts for your elf.
Elf-Themed Activities
- Elf on the Shelf Breakfast Ideas This is such a fun treat for kids! Celebrate the Elf on the Shelf with these easy holiday-themed recipes.
- 45+ Star Wars Elf on the Shelf Ideas Do you have a Star Wars fan in your house? These Star Wars Elf on the Shelf ideas are so fun!
- 55+ Disney Elf on the Shelf Ideas Decorate your elf in your favorite Disney movie theme with these cute ideas!
Elf Modifications
Sometimes you want your elf to do a little extra! If you want to modify your elf, there are hacks to upgrade your traditional Elf on the Shelf.
- How to Make Your Elf Bendable Insert wire and perform “surgery” on your elf. You’ll be able to pose your elves in so many more positions with these simple DIY instructions.
- You could also buy this elf upgrade kit to make your elf amazing if you aren’t “crafty.” 😉
- Knitting Patterns for the Elf on the Shelf Dress your elf in fun costumes or make your own DIY elf accessories with these cute knitting patterns.
How to Say Goodbye to Your Elf on the Shelf
14 Ways to Say Goodbye to Your Elf Send your elf back to the North Pole with a creative farewell idea.
What fun Christmas traditions have you started with your kids? Has your Elf on the Shelf tried any of these ideas? Don’t forget to sign up below for these free “Elf Templates!”