Every holiday season, I look forward to the fun my Elf on the Shelf brings. Finding creative ways to move the elf can add excitement and laughter to my family’s traditions. With a little imagination, I can come up with funny and clever ideas that will keep my kids guessing each morning.
Whether I use common household items or create new scenes, the possibilities are endless. I love how these silly little moments can spread joy and create lasting memories during the festive season.
1) Elf on a Bookshelf With Glasses
I love the idea of placing my elf on a bookshelf wearing glasses. It makes him look so studious and fun.
I can imagine him reading a tiny book or peeking over his glasses. This creates a cute and funny scene that kids will enjoy.
Adding glasses gives the elf a playful personality. It shows he is keeping an eye on the holiday spirit while doing some “research.”
This idea is simple and easy to set up. All I need are some small glasses and a favorite book to create the scene.
2) Elf in a Bubble Bath
I love the idea of my elf taking a bubble bath. It’s a fun scene that makes everyone smile.
To set it up, I use a small container filled with soapy water. You can even add some toy ducks for extra charm.
It’s cute to imagine my elf soaking and relaxing after all that toy watching. Kids will giggle at this silly sight!
This setup is easy and brings a lighthearted moment to the holiday season.
3) Elf Building a Marshmallow Snowman
I love the idea of my elf building a marshmallow snowman. It’s a fun and creative activity for the holiday season.
To set this up, I gather regular marshmallows, mini marshmallows, and toothpicks. The toothpicks help to connect the marshmallows and form a snowman shape.
I carefully arrange the large marshmallows for the body and use mini marshmallows for the head. I can even add a tiny hat or a scarf using paper or fabric scraps.
This scene always brings smiles and laughter. My family enjoys discovering the elf’s funny marshmallow creation each morning. It’s a delightful way to add some cheer to our holiday traditions!
4) Elf Wrapped in Toilet Paper
One funny idea I love is wrapping my elf in toilet paper. It looks like the elf had a little fun and got caught in a roll.
To make it even better, I add googly eyes and a little scarf made from fabric scraps. This adds a touch of personality and makes it even cuter.
The kids always get a kick out of seeing the elf’s new look. It never fails to bring smiles and laughter in the morning.
5) Elf in a Tiny Hammock
I love setting up my elf in a tiny hammock. It’s such a cute scene that brings a smile to everyone’s face.
To create this look, I use small fabric or string to make the hammock. I hang it between two sturdy objects, like a chair or a shelf edge.
My elf looks so relaxed, wrapped in a tiny blanket. Adding a mini book or a tiny drink beside the hammock makes it even funnier.
This setup always brightens my kids’ day. They giggle every time they find the elf lounging around!
6) Elf Making Snow Angels in Flour
I love the idea of my Elf on the Shelf making snow angels in flour. It’s a simple and fun activity.
All I need is some flour and a flat surface. I sprinkle the flour on the table to create the perfect snowy backdrop.
Next, I place the elf in the middle. Then, I use my hands to make the angel’s wings and legs around the elf. If I mess up, I can just add more flour.
The kids always find it hilarious and cute. It’s a creative way to bring some holiday cheer into the house!
7) Elf Hanging from a Ceiling Fan
I love the idea of hanging my Elf on the Shelf from the ceiling fan. It creates a fun surprise for the kids each morning.
I simply use some string to suspend the elf from one of the fan blades. A little note can make it even more special.
When I turn the fan on at a low speed, it looks like the elf is taking a ride. It’s a hilarious sight that brings lots of laughs.
8) Elf with a Mustache Drawn On
I love this funny idea for my Elf on the Shelf. Drawing a mustache on my elf adds a silly and playful touch.
I simply use a washable marker for easy cleanup. My kids always laugh when they see the elf with a big mustache!
This setup is quick and requires no extra props. It’s a fun way to get everyone in the holiday spirit.
9) Elf Having a Campfire with Animal Toys
I love the idea of my elf having a campfire with animal toys. It creates a fun and cozy scene.
To set this up, I gather small animal figures. These can be toy bears, rabbits, or any other critters.
For the campfire, I use a small electric candle or some orange tissue paper to mimic flames. I arrange the animals around it, making it look like they’re enjoying a night out.
This setup brings a touch of adventure. Plus, it gives a nice story for my kids to discover in the morning.
10) Elf in a Gingerbread House
I love the idea of placing my elf inside a gingerbread house. It looks so festive and fun!
To set this up, I use a small gingerbread house, either store-bought or homemade. I gently place the elf inside, making it look like he’s enjoying a cozy stay.
Adding some candy decorations around the house makes it even more cheerful. I sprinkle a bit of powdered sugar on top to mimic snow, which looks adorable!
Kids will get a kick out of discovering their elf in such a sweet spot. It brings a touch of magic to the holiday season.
11) Elf in a Box of Tissues (Soft Landing)
I love the idea of placing my elf in a box of tissues. It’s a simple yet funny scene.
I put the elf inside with a few tissues tossed around. It looks like he made a soft landing after a little jump.
Kids enjoy finding him nestled among the tissues. This setup adds a playful and cozy touch to our holiday decorations.
12) Elf Painting the Walls with Invisible Ink (Water)
I love this idea for the elf! It adds a fun twist to the usual setup.
To create this scene, I use a white crayon to draw a secret message on a piece of white paper. Then, I mix dark food coloring with water for the invisible ink.
Next, I let the elf “paint” the walls with the colored water. It will look like magic as the message and drawings appear when the water dries! This idea gives kids a sense of wonder while they search for the hidden message.
13) Elf Stuck in a Candy Cane Jail
I love the idea of my elf getting into some sweet trouble! To create a candy cane jail, I gather some candy canes and a small box.
I arrange the candy canes in a square to form the jail’s walls. Then, I tape them together for support. This makes a cute little prison for my elf.
Next, I place the elf inside the jail. I might even add a funny sign that says “Candy Cane Jail.” Kids find it hilarious when their elf gets caught!
This setup adds some festive fun and is sure to bring smiles. It’s an easy and creative way to keep the holiday spirit alive!
14) Elf Snowboarding Down the Stairs
I love the idea of my elf snowboarding down the stairs. It’s a fun and creative setup.
To create this scene, I use a small piece of cardboard as a snowboard. I carefully position the elf on it and lean him against the stair railing.
To add some flair, I sprinkle some faux snow or cotton balls around. This makes it look like he’s zooming down the snowy slope.
It’s a simple idea that brings a smile to my kids’ faces. Each morning, they look forward to finding the elf in this playful pose.
15) Elf in a Christmas Tree Parachute
I love the idea of my elf parachuting from the Christmas tree. It adds a fun twist to the holiday decorations!
To set this up, I use a small piece of fabric for the parachute. I attach it to the elf’s arms and let it hang from a branch.
When the kids see this, they always giggle. It’s a creative way to make the elf appear adventurous!
16) Elf Playing Video Games with Toys
I love the idea of my Elf getting into some gaming fun! Picture him sitting next to my child’s favorite toys, like action figures or plush animals, all ready to play.
I can set up a little scene where the Elf holds a controller. Surrounding him with toys makes it look like they are all in an exciting gaming tournament!
It’s funny to think about how my Elf gets competitive too. I’ll place tiny snacks near them for added charm.
This simple setup brings smiles and laughter to my kids each morning!
17) Elf Climbing DIY Candy Cane Ladder
I love making a Candy Cane Ladder for my Elf on the Shelf. It’s a fun way to show the elf in action.
To create this cute scene, I use pipe cleaners or straws and red and white colored materials for a candy cane look. It’s simple to find materials around the house.
I attach the ladder to a cabinet or shelf. Then, I position my elf climbing up, reaching for treats. This makes for a delightful display that my kids enjoy.
This idea adds a playful touch to the holiday season. It encourages my children to look for their elf each morning.
18) Elf with a Sign Saying ‘Gone Fishing’
I think this idea is a fun twist for the Elf on the Shelf. I can place my elf by a small bowl of water to mimic a fishing spot.
I’ll give the elf a little fishing rod made from a toothpick and string. Adding a cute sign that says “Gone Fishing” makes it even more amusing.
It’s simple, yet the kids will love seeing their elf trying to catch imaginary fish. This setup will surely bring smiles and laughter!
19) Elf Bungee Jumping from a Shelf
I love the idea of my elf bungee jumping! It’s simple to set up and brings a lot of fun.
I start with a small elastic band or string. I attach one end to the elf and the other to a shelf or high spot. It looks like the elf is ready for a jump!
Sometimes, I make a little landing pad with pillows or stuffed animals below. This adds to the excitement and makes it safe for my elf.
To make it even more fun, I add a little sign that says “Bungee Jumping Champion!” This gets my kids laughing every time they see it.
20) Elf Having a Picnic with Friends
I love the idea of my elf having a picnic. I set up a small picnic scene with toy food and tiny plates.
I use a blanket or a colorful cloth on the table. It makes a fun spot for a little gathering.
Sometimes, I add other small toys or stuffed animals as guests. This adds more excitement to the scene.
I like to include a juice box or a plate of cookies. It gives the picnic a festive touch.
Every morning, I look forward to seeing what my elf has planned. It brightens up my day and gets me in the holiday spirit.
21) Elf with Tiny Elf-Sized Art Gallery
I love the idea of setting up a tiny art gallery for my elf. It adds a fun and creative touch to the holiday season.
To make this gallery, I use small pieces of paper for the elf’s artwork. I draw cute little pictures or even let my kids create some art too.
Then, I tape these mini masterpieces on a wall or a board. It looks adorable and makes the elf seem so artistic!
Adding tiny frames made from craft sticks can enhance the display. I get so excited to see my family’s reactions when they find this setup!
22) Elf Relaxing in a DIY Hot Cocoa Hot Tub
I love the idea of my elf enjoying a cozy moment in a DIY hot cocoa hot tub. It’s a fun way to bring some holiday cheer.
To create this scene, I use a small container as the hot tub. I fill it with cotton balls to mimic fluffy bubbles.
Next, I add some brown paper or fabric to represent hot cocoa. My elf looks so relaxed sitting in it, maybe even with tiny marshmallows around!
I place a small sign that says “Hot Cocoa Spa” next to the elf. It adds a cute touch to the setup.
This simple idea makes my kids chuckle and brings a warm feeling to our holiday decorations.
23) Elf Playing Hide and Seek with Barbie
I love this funny idea! The Elf can hide alongside a Barbie doll for a playful twist on hide and seek.
You can place the Elf and Barbie in a cabinet or behind some pillows. This will spark a fun game for the kids. It’s simple and quick to set up!
As my children find the Elf, they will giggle at the sight of Barbie. It brings joy and creativity to our holiday traditions.
