A little sparkle for busy parents

Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Busy Parents

Quick setups, funny scenes and free printables from our own December mornings, all made with things you already have around the house.

Browse elf ideas Get one idea each evening
Candy cane sledding, no glue needed!

Find an elf idea fast

Pick the kind of morning you’re having.

Newest elf ideas

See all elf ideas →

Special delivery!

An easy elf idea, every evening

One quick setup in your inbox at 7pm Eastern, so you can move the elf after bedtime. November 30 through Christmas Eve. Free, and you can unsubscribe anytime.

Dear Elf, please write to:

Get an easy elf idea every day in December

One quick, low-prep Elf on the Shelf idea in your inbox each day from December 1 to Christmas. Free, and you can unsubscribe anytime.



Privacy policy

Free elf printables

Print, fold, done. Perfect for the nights you forgot.

Elf coloring pages Christmas Eve goodbye letter Elf touched? Fix-it letters Elf name generators

Elf on the Shelf questions, answered

What is Elf on the Shelf?

A Christmas tradition where a scout elf watches the house each day and flies back to the North Pole at night, landing somewhere new by morning.

Read the full guide →

What if someone touches the elf?

Don’t panic. There are easy ways to fix it by morning, including free printable notes from the elf.

Easy fixes + printables →

What if I forgot to move the elf?

It happens to all of us. Here are believable reasons the elf stayed put, plus quick ideas for tonight.

Elf didn’t move? Read this →

When does the elf go back to the North Pole?

Most elves leave on Christmas Eve, December 24th. A goodbye letter makes it easier on the kids.

Get the goodbye letter →