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Share the Christmas Story: The Jesse Tree for Kids

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October 21, 2024 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Kids, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media, Sunday School

Discover the Jesse Tree for Kids, a meaningful Advent tradition that teaches children about the Bible and Jesus’ family tree through daily symbols and stories. Learn how to use a Jesse Tree with your family, find out its symbols, and explore our printable Jesse Tree craft set with ornaments and coloring pages. Perfect for family devotionals, Sunday school, and Christian education.

The Jesse Tree is a wonderful way to teach children about the Bible and the family tree of Jesus. This centuries-old tradition connects kids to the biblical stories and characters that lead to the birth of Jesus. In this blog post, we’ll explore what the Jesse Tree is, how to use it with your family, the symbols that represent the stories, and how to make the experience extra special with a printable Tree of Jesse craft set, including ornaments and coloring pages.

What is the Jesse Tree?

The Jesse Tree gets its name from Jesse, the father of King David, and is a visual representation of Jesus’ family tree. The Bible tells us in Isaiah 11:1, “A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from his roots, a Branch will bear fruit.” This tree serves as a symbol of the lineage of Jesus, starting with creation and leading through the Old Testament figures to the birth of Christ.

The Jesse Tree helps us remember that Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promises throughout the Bible.

How to Use a Jesse Tree

A Jesse Tree is typically used during Advent, the weeks leading up to Christmas, and the birth of the Messiah. For this reason, the tree can also be called “The Advent Tree” or “The Jesus Tree.” Each day, a new symbol is added to the tree, representing a story from the Bible that shows God’s plan for salvation through the ancestors of Jesus Christ. Families can read a Bible verse or story together as they hang the corresponding ornament.

Here’s how to use a Jesse Tree in a few simple steps:

Prepare your tree: This can be a small tabletop Christmas tree, a poster on the wall, or even bare branches (in a vase) from outside.
Hang an ornament each day: Each ornament represents a person or story from the Bible, such as Adam and Eve, Noah, Moses, or David.
Read a passage or story: Share the Bible verse that goes with the ornament to reflect on how God’s plan unfolds through history.
Enjoy time together: This Christmas tradition and activity is a perfect way to center your family on the meaning of Christmas throughout the Advent season.

Symbols of the Jesse Tree

Each ornament on the Jesse Tree represents a significant biblical character or event that leads up to the birth of Jesus. These symbols help children understand the overarching story of salvation in a hands-on, visual way. Typically, these symbols are displayed on an ornament to be hung each day of the advent season.

Here are some common Jesse Tree symbols and their meanings:

Apple (Adam and Eve): Represents the fall of man and the need for a Savior.
Rainbow (Noah): Represents the faithfulness of God and His promise to never flood the earth again.
Burning Bush (Moses): A symbol of God calling Moses to lead His people.
Ten Commandments (Moses): A symbol of God’s law given to Moses on Mount Sinai.
Stars (Abraham): Symbolizing God’s promise to Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars.
Ram (Abraham and Isaac): Symbolizes the sacrifice provided by God, foreshadowing Jesus’ sacrifice.
Coat of Many Colors (Joseph): Represents Joseph’s unique role in God’s plan to save his family and preserve the nation of Israel after being sold as a slave into Egypt.
Oil (Samuel): Symbolizes Samuel’s role in anointing King David and being a faithful prophet, who was dedicated to God from a young age.
Wheat (Ruth): A reminder of Ruth’s faithfulness and God’s provision, leading to the lineage of Jesus.
Nativity Scene (Jesus’ Birth): Represents the birth of Jesus, the fulfillment of God’s promise, and the central event of the Christmas season.

These are just a few examples, but there are many more stories and symbols that can be used on a Jesse Tree, depending on the devotionals you choose to follow.

Why You Should Use a Jesse Tree

A Jesse Tree is a fantastic tool for helping children connect with the Bible and the true meaning of Christmas. Here are some reasons to consider adding a Jesse Tree to your family traditions:

1. Teaches Biblical History

The Jesse Tree walks your family through the entire Bible in a simple, visual way, making it easy for children to understand God’s plan for salvation.

2. Hands-on Learning

Children love hands-on activities, and hanging ornaments on a tree is a fun and engaging way to learn about Bible stories. This interactive approach helps kids retain the stories better than just reading.

3. Focuses on Jesus

While Christmas is often filled with distractions, the Jesse Tree helps center your family’s attention on Jesus and the story of His birth.

4. Daily Family Time

Using the Jesse Tree creates an opportunity for family devotions and meaningful conversations during the busy holiday season.

Where Can You Use a Jesse Tree?

The beauty of the Jesse Tree is its versatility. It can be used in various settings beyond your home:

At Home: You can use the Jesse Tree for family devotionals and as an Advent calendar during the month of December. Each day, your family can gather to hang an ornament, read a Bible passage, and reflect on God’s promises.
At Church: Sunday school teachers can lead students through the Jesse Tree symbols each week during Advent, helping them understand the stories that lead to the birth of Jesus.
Homeschooling: Families who homeschool can incorporate the Jesse Tree into their Bible lessons, using each worksheet and ornament to teach children how the Old and New Testaments are connected.
Christian Schools: This can be a great project for classrooms, where students can learn about Jesus’ lineage and the fulfillment of God’s promises.
Christmas Parties: Consider using the Jesse Tree at family gatherings or church Christmas parties, where each guest can add an ornament and share a Bible story.

The Jesse Tree Printable Craft Set

To make your Jesse Tree experience even more special, we offer a Jesse Tree Printable Craft Set. This set includes printable ornaments with symbols for each day of Advent, as well as coloring pages that help kids bring the Jesse Tree to life.

What’s included in the craft set:

Ornaments: 25 printable Jesse Tree ornaments with bright and vibrant artwork to hang on your Jesse Tree
Reading Plan: 24 Bible verse references in a reading plan to accompany each ornament in order
Coloring Sheets: 25 Jesse Tree coloring pages that create a complete DIY Jesee Tree book by Christmas
Guide: A Jesse Tree guide for parents or teachers to help explain the stories behind a Jesee Tree
The Jesse Tree Story: An easy-to-read summary for young children bringing together stories from creation and the fall of adam to redemption through the birth of Jesus

The printable craft set (on Etsy too) is perfect for families, Sunday school, or homeschool settings. It’s an easy and fun way to bring this meaningful tradition to life.

Download & Print The Jesse Tree Set Immediately

Start a Jesse Tree Tradition This Christmas

Whether you’re using the Jesse Tree at home, in the classroom, or at church, it’s a beautiful way to celebrate the Advent season and teach children the story of Jesus’ family. The Jesse Tree offers a daily reminder of God’s faithfulness and His plan for salvation through His Son. Be sure to check out our printable Jesse Tree craft set, complete with the ornaments of the Jesse tree and coloring pages, to make this tradition even more fun and meaningful for your family.

Tell the Christmas story a new way and get started with Jesus’s family tree, a Jesse Tree!

Advent Resources for Your Jesse Tree Tradition

If you’re looking to expand your family’s Advent traditions beyond the Jesse Tree, there are plenty of creative ways to make the season even more meaningful. Advent calendars are a wonderful way to build excitement and anticipation for Christmas while incorporating fun activities or gifts for your children.

Check out our DIY Advent Calendars for some great ideas on how to craft your own personalized calendar. Whether you’re using envelopes, bags, or small boxes, creating a custom calendar adds a special touch to the holiday season.

And don’t forget to fill those calendars with thoughtful surprises! Our Advent Calendar Fillers post offers a variety of ideas, from scripture cards to small treats, to help you focus on the true meaning of Christmas.

Together, these advent resources will complement your Jesse Tree tradition and help your family engage with the Christmas story in a hands-on and meaningful way throughout December.

More Christian Resources

If you’re looking for additional ways to bring the Christmas story to life for children, be sure to explore our Meaningful Sunday School Christmas Crafts to Share the Christmas Story. These creative crafts are perfect for engaging kids in Sunday school or at home, offering a hands-on way to learn and reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. From nativity scenes to interactive activities, these projects help children understand and share the message of Jesus’ birth in a fun and meaningful way.

While these family advent crafts are perfect for the Christmas season, don’t forget to check out our Year-Round List of Sunday School Ideas for creative ways to engage children in Bible stories and lessons all year long. These ideas are designed to keep kids excited about learning God’s Word no matter the season!

We are continuously adding more Sunday School Resources for Kids. Take a look at our List of Christian Activities for Kids. This printable set will come to your inbox. Simply download and save it as a resource when planning your Sunday School curriculum.

Adorable Jesus & Character Friends Clip Art from EduClips Clip Art.

Free Printables

Download our free printables. Get ready for the Christmas season and all the holidays with our freebies. Subscribe and look for a link and password in your inbox. The password allows you to access and download all of our free printables.

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How to Print at Staples

Don’t have a printer? You can print at your local print shop or your Staples Printing Center. Watch this video for how I print my PDF documents at Staples.

Our Pinterest community and I would love to see how this worked out for you. Share your ideas for the Christmas Story and The Jesse Tree. Leave a comment here or on Pinterest!

WHAT’S TRENDING? Looking for a few engaging activities? Grab Minute to Win it Games – Traditional, Holiday, Group, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

How to Stuff a Balloon with The Elf on the Shelf

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October 11, 2024 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Hacks, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

How to put Elf in a balloon. All you need is a funnel and ten minutes for one of the easiest and best ideas for The Elf on the Shelf— The Elf on the Shelf in a balloon! We also provide the most creative and easy Elf Ideas daily. Plus, you can use your stuffing tool funnel and pump to stuff a balloon and create balloons filled with gifts for every occasion!

Want the newest Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

Disclosure: Frugal Coupon Living (the website, blog, and all social media channels) is not associated with CCA and B, LLC d/b/a The Lumistella Company, home of the official The Elf on the Shelf and Scout Elf.

We’re back with more of the best ideas for The Elf on the Shelf! Every day in November and December, we’re bringing you new Elf Ideas daily. To see new and older Elf ideas, check out our Master List of Elf Ideas!

The Elf on the Shelf in a Balloon

For many of these easy deas, you’ll need an elf that can bend. Make yours bendable to enjoy these ideas with our Bendable Tutorial for The Elf on the Shelf.

Balloon Stuffing Tool

Anyone can do this easy Balloon idea for The Elf on the Shelf. No fancy tools required! This DIY Balloon Stuffer Machine costs next to nothing, and you can use it year-round for fantastic gifts. Use it to stuff your holiday helper in a balloon for a fun arrival surprise, or stuff a balloon with candy for a great party favor!

You only need a few supplies to stuff The Elf on the Shelf in a balloon:

The Elf on the Shelf
Christmas Balloons (You’ll want a clear balloon so the kids can see the goodies inside! We went with this Christmas Balloon set)
Optional: Black Sharpie
Optional: Your candy of choice (we used Reese’s Cups)

Now for the two magic gadgets! To stuff the little red guy in a balloon, you’ll need a Balloon Stuffing Tool and a Hand Held Balloon Pump (guys, you’re going to need this balloon pump around the house for parties – it made blowing up my daughter’s birthday balloons so easy and quick!)

Balloon Stuffing Tool (aka canning funnel)
Hand Held Balloon Pump

The best part about these tools? You’ll be able to use them all year to make incredibly affordable and easy balloons filled with gifts! Fill balloons with candy, rolled-up dollar bills, small presents, and more!

How to Stuff a Balloon with The Elf on the Shelf

Follow these simple, step-by-step directions to learn how to stuff a balloon with a Christmas Elf! There’s two important things worth sharing. First, this is incredibly easy. Like, crazy easy. Plus, the balloon stuffing tool is incredibly affordable for all my frugal friends out there! Second, your kids will become obsessed with this easy Balloon idea for a family elf. You’ll have envious moms wondering, “How on earth did you do that?!” Send them here to share your wisdom. They won’t realize how easy it is until they try it themselves! Let’s get into the tutorial. Read on for one of the best Ideas — The Christmas Elf in a balloon!

How do you get The Elf on the Shelf in a balloon?

First, grab your balloon and start stretching it out. Make sure to stretch both the neck and the body of the balloon. You’re going to fit an entire Scout Elf in a balloon, so the balloon needs to have room!

Second, use your Balloon Pump to put the neck of your balloon on the neck of the pump. Pump up the balloon and deflate it. Repeat this a few times. This continues to stretch your balloon so you can easily fit your family elf inside.

Third, remove your balloon from the balloon pump. Wrap the neck of the balloon around your Balloon Stuffing Tool (aka canning funnel). Pull the neck of the balloon up the neck of the canning funnel. Make sure to pull the balloon up as much as possible — it’ll help you fit everything into the balloon in the next step!

Next, you have the option to add chocolates to the inside of the balloon to give the balloon weight. The Elf will likely still move around, but the chocolates are a fun extra treat for your child to enjoy when they pop the balloon!

Next, fold your Elf in on itself, similar to the way it arrived in the box. Wrap its arms around itself and fold its legs, like it’s sitting! Begin to slide the bottom of your elf doll into the balloon until everything but its head is inside.

Then, work the rest of the balloon up the face of Elf by removing the canning funnel. You’ll need to use your hands and a little patience for this part! Only the tip of the Elf’s hat will be sticking out at this point.

Return to your hand-held balloon pump, slide your balloon onto the pump, and start pumping. Don’t over-inflate the balloon — if you do, it could pop before morning arrives.

Tie off the neck of the balloon. Optionally, you can use a Sharpie to write a message from the Elf on the balloon. “Help me” and “I’m here!” are a couple of good message ideas for the Arrival of The Elf on the Shelf!

Finally, you’re done! You did this easy elf idea in a balloon DIY, and it looks like it took a lot of effort too!

So, what now!? Once your child pops Elf, you might be wondering, “How do you take The Elf on the Shelf off the floor?” Easy! Use our magic grippers printable to pick up your North Pole Friend.

The Elf on the Shelf Arrival Ideas

This idea is perfect for a First Night Idea for The Elf on the Shelf. We shared many Elf Ideas for Arrival, but we think this one is just adorable. It’s as if Elf floated down from the North Pole inside a balloon. You can use a Sharpie Marker and write “I’m Back!” or “Help Me!” on the outside of the balloon. We filled up other balloons around Elf and kept the clear balloons as the balloon Scout Elf chose to arrive in. That way, the kids can see their North Pole visitors!

A few other ideas for arrival include…

Don’t forget our Last Night Elf Ideas for Saying Good-bye.

Elf Printables

We love sharing printables! Get all of our holiday printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. One you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a signup.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with a link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your holiday helper printables.

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The Elf on the Shelf Christmas Tradition

The Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and an elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He/she goes and returns from the North Pole each evening. Every morning he can be found in a new location in the house. The Elf has been found in the refrigerator, fishing in the toilet, writing messages on the mirror, or hanging from the lights. It is VERY IMPORTANT, that the Elf is not touched each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. The elves return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve.

You can also trap Elf f in the TV. Pin to Pinterest.

Don’t forget all of our daily Elf Ideas. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

We have been doing The Elf on the Shelf forever. See our Elf Master List of Ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

Bible Study Christmas Gift Ideas with Pun

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February 1, 2024 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Crafts, DIY, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media, Sunday School

Absorb the spirit of Christ this season with this Bible Study Christmas Gift Idea. Bounty paper towels with pun saying to blot out problems, soak up sorrows, and wipe away difficulties.

Bible Study Christmas Gift Ideas with Pun

My Bible study has grown and sometimes it’s hard to think of something creative and cute without spending an arm and leg. I was trying to come up with something creative for my girls, without baking (the holidays add enough calories) and this gift tag came to mind. Of course, there is nothing exciting over the gift of paper towels, but I love the pun and the message for the season!

Bible Study Christmas Gift Tag Supplies

Not many supplies are needed for this gift. First, I subscribe and save on Amazon to Bounty Paper towels. So these paper towel rolls were actually something I already had – that reminds me, I need to order MORE for our family! I needed 13 rolls to gift to my bible study girls and my leader.

I used twine that I keep in my gift wrapping drawers. Curling ribbon could be cute too. What about this black and white check ribbon?

You will also need our free printable. I give the link to that printable below as well as how to order your printable online so it is printed in the store – save on ink and paper. We got our gift tags for under $1.

Gift Tip! Pair this gift with scented holiday soap, cookie mix, cooking gadgets or tools, or make an entire basket of items and include this punny tag with a roll of paper towel!

Bible Study Christmas Gift Tag Saying

May the absorbing spirit of Christ blot out your problems, soak up your sorrows, and wipe away your difficulties. May the new year bring you bounteous blessing throughout the new year.

Get this Punny Christmas Gift Tag and all of Frugal Coupon Living’s free printables. Enter your name and email address and we will send you a link and password for access to your free downloads.

By downloading you are accepting the terms that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). It takes time, effort and money to put the freebies forth and I earn when you visit. Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

Bible Study Christmas Gift Tag Directions

Get your paper towel rolls. We like the wrapper off the roll. Tie your ribbon around the roll of paper. Cut your gift tags out and use a hole punch to punch a hole at the top. Thread your ribbon through and tie off your ribbon with a bow. Gift to your girls!

I like to order my prints at Staples. It saves on ink and is only a few short miles from my home. I pick-up at the store, but of course you can upload them online and then have them shipped to your home.

To Order Your Printables at Staples for Under $1*:

Download and save your image from this post. (Please note these images are for personal use only and cannot be sold or used for commercial use.)
Sign in or create a Staples account on their print service page.
Return to Staples print service page.
Go to Start Project.
Go to Documents Printing.
Select the Buy Now Button under color.
On the left column, select your file.
Select upload.
Select done.
Give your job a name.
Make sure your project is single sided. The orientation should be portrait.
I changed my media to 8.5×10 and the media to 67 lb coverstock (I prefer a cardstock feel over printer paper feel.)
Select add to cart.
Proceed to checkout. My total was $0.17 for one print. You can choose to ship to your home or to pick up at your local store. Pay online and show your invoice when you pick up (I just show the order number on my phone at pick-up.) The order invoice will arrive in your email inbox.
Enjoy!

*Note: these Staple print service steps were added in Fall 2018. The directions may change as the website changes. They should give you a general outline of how to upload and order a print on Staples.com.

Absorb the spirit of Christ this season with this Bible Study Christmas Gift Idea. Bounty paper towels with pun saying to blot out problems, soak up sorrows, and wipe away difficulties. #FrugalCouponLiving #printable #Christmas

Enjoy these Christmas Gift Ideas for Your Neighbors, Co-Workers, Teachers and Friends. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Gift Boards.

Enjoy these Edible Christmas Gifts. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Gift Boards.

Miniature Christmas Game Board – Elf-Sized!

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January 25, 2024 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

We added to the popular Elf-sized twister board. In addition to a fun game of twisting up your family elf, print this miniature Chutes & Ladders Board for the Christmas Elf, an interactive sledding & climbing family game with a spinner and game pieces. New creative, funny, and original Ideas for Elves daily.

Want new Christmas Elf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

We are back, and so is the family elf. If you have been with us a long time, you know we have brought you a new Ideas for Christmas Elves daily (in November and December) for the past seven years. You can view our master List of Ideas for a full list of ideas including every idea we have ever done.

Miniature Elf-Sized Sledding and Climbing Game Board

Our Elf-SIzed Twister Board Printable was so popular, we had to add a new game board. Elf Sledding and Climbing aka Christmas Chutes and Ladders.

This Elf game board is very interactive and your kids can play the game. Just slide the board away from your Elf doll to play.

Elf Chutes and Ladders Board Printable

Miniature Game Supplies

The Elf game board comes with all the supplies you need including game pieces, a spinner, and game pieces. Alternatively, you can use your own plastic game makers and dice if you wish.

An Elf
Elf Sledding & Climbing Game Board with spinner and game markers
Optional: Game markers (we used some from a Sorry Game Board)
Optional: Dice

Elf Chutes & Ladders Directions

Each child can choose a different playing piece.
Spin the spinner (or roll the dice to see who goes first.) The largest number goes first followed by the person to the left of the first player.
Take turns spinner the spinner. Go the number of spaces as the spinner shoes.
If you hit the bottom of a ladder, climb to the top. If you hit the top of a slide, slide down to the bottom.
The first player to square 100 wins. You can roll a number larger than your last number of squares to win. For example, if you are on square 96 and spin the number 5, you can go to square 100 to win.

Fun Christmas Printables

Our most popular printable Christmas ideas for an Elf can be found in our shop. Shop holiday ideas, fun letters, adorable Christmas games, jokes for kids, and so much more!

In addition, grab the Elf Sledding & Climbing Board. This Elf game board comes with character game pieces and optional spinners. One spinner is blank so you can create your own DIY spinner craft with a Brads fastener.

Shop Elf-Sized Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Christmas Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf printables! Get all of our free Elf printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password to the free printable elf props for Santa’s helper!

Free Printables Step-by-Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a signup.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with a link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

By downloading digital downloads you are accepting the copyright terms and permissions that this is for personal use, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions. If you don’t have a printer, use Staples Online Printing.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

12 Adorable Miniature Letters for The Elf

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January 25, 2024 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Looking for lazy ideas for the Elf? These miniature elf letters cover 12 days of activity. All you have to do is place the North Pole visitor with a letter. They are silly, engaging, and will make your child laugh. Voilà. Done. New easy Ideas Daily.

Want new Christmas Elf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

We are back, and so is the family elf If you have been with us a long time, you know we have brought you new Ideas for Santa’s Helper daily (in November and December) for the past seven years. You can view our Huge List for a full list of ideas including every idea we have ever done.

Today we are providing easy ideas for Lazy Moms. Own it, when it comes to Elf all you want is to be quick but make it amazing for your child- We have you covered for almost two weeks. Let’s go!

12 Mini Elf Letters Printables Instant Download

Elf-Sized Printable Letters

With this printable bundle, we have 12 miniature letters. This gives you 12 great days of ideas. Here are a few easy Elf examples.

Dear Family, Santa ate too many Frosted Flakes for breakfast and I had to help make him a new belt before I returned back to you. I replaced the Frosted Flakes with snowflakes. I think his belt will fit now. XO

Dear Family, Don’t eat the Christmas decorations. My mom told me that I Hate some when I was young and got Tinselitis. XO

Dear Family, Last night when I went to the North Pole, the northern lights were very bright. I saw green, pink, blue, and violet. I wish I could show you. Make sure you look them up online. XO

Dear Family, Good morning. I am extra tired today. There was a long line at elf customs. There are so many elves visiting elf headquarters. Be really quiet so I can rest. XO

Dear Family, what is your favorite thing about Christmas? Please share with me. I love the lights of the tree at night. XO

Supplies Needed

An Elf Doll
12 Mini Messages Printable Letters
Misc Items: Card stock, scissors, etc.

Fun Elf-Sized Printables

Our most popular printable Christmas ideas for an Elf can be found in our shop. Not only does this include our 12 Mini Elf Letters, shop holiday ideas, fun letters, adorable Christmas games, jokes for kids, and so much more!

This Elf Message Set will cover you for almost two weeks.

Shop Miniature Elf Letters Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Christmas Elf Printables

Free Printables Step-by-Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a signup.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with a link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

Mini Elf

Have you seen our World’s Smallest Elf? If you love miniature things, this guy is very cute and can come up with a lot of clever ideas. It’s a fun way to introduce a Second Elf to the home.

Editable Calendar for the Elf

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January 25, 2024 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Are you ready to plan for the North Pole visitor this year? Grab a completely editable calendar printable pdf that you can customize to your family Elf. This editable PDF includes fillable fields for your ideas for the Elf. Enjoy new creative, original, and funny Daily Ideas for Elves.

Want new ideas for Santa’s helper in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

The best way to enjoy the tradition of the Elf with your child is to be prepared for the holiday season. Coming up with new ideas each evening can be a bit of a challenge. For that reason, we have put together a completed calendar. All you have to do is download and print. However, you might want to add your own holiday elf ideas. If that’s the case we also include a blank calendar template so you can fill in your own Christmas Elf ideas for the kiddos.

This calendar template was something you downloaded and printed. It was found in our free printable library as well as with sets in our Elf prop store. Once printed, you could write in your new ideas and your supply list.

Many of you requested a version that could be edited on your computer. You spoke, we listened! Now you can get our calendar template and digitally edit online using a free version of Adobe!

Calendar of Ideas for The Elf

We have created a calendar of ideas for your Christmas Elf. This includes 24 days of holiday elf ideas. In our free printable library, we have listed all 24 days of ideas and the supply list of Elf props you need for these ideas. This keeps you prepared for the entire Elf season.

An example of Elf oCalendar Ideas include…

Elf returns in a package (or use these Elf Arrival ideas and arrival letters)
Elf hides candy canes
Elf makes a bumble gum balloon
Elf rolls down the stairs in toilet paper
Elf makes snowflakes from Q-tips
Elf plays Twister
Elf turns into a burrito

Grab the editable holiday Elf calendar. This PDF uses fillable form fields for your convenience. That means filling out online and printing for your seasonal use.

See the Full List of Ideas for Elves

Frequently Asked Questions

Please note that this calendar printable for ELf uses fillable form fields for your convenience. Here are a few FAQs about the blank calendar template printable for the Elf

What software do I need to edit this document?

For the most reliable results, you will edit the Christmas Calendar document using Adobe PDF Reader. Get it for free here https://get.adobe.com/reader/. Make sure you have the latest version for your files to work correctly. If using a Mac please open in Adobe PDF Reader as the Mac Preview software does not work well with fillable fields.

I notice a grayish-purple box in the editable calendar fields. Will this show when I print the Elf calendar?

No, the shadow box will not show when it prints. This shadowed field is put in the document simply to show you where you can edit the template.

I don’t have a printer. How can I print this document at a copy center?

If you do not have a printer, no worries. Download your PDF file. Edit and save the document. You can print the item at your local copy center. I prefer to use the Staples Copy Center near me. You can have it shipped to your home or picked up at your local Staples store. Learn how to print at Staples.

I bought this product on Etsy. How do I download a purchase from Etsy?

If you have a digital download from Etsy, follow these Etsy Digital Download steps to access your digital file. Find more Digital Files at Frugal Coupon Living on Etsy.

What are the directions for editing a fillable PDF?

How to edit Fillable PDF Form

Follow these easy directions for how to edit a fillable PDF form.

1.) First purchase and download your digital file.
2.) Open Adobe Acrobat.
3.) Go to “File,” and click “Open.”
4.) Choose the calendar PDF file you want to edit.
5.) Once your file opens, go ahead and save the file with a new name (that way you have the original file and the file you will edit.)
6.) Click inside the editable fields you want to edit and add your own ideas for the season.
7.) Save your finished product.
8.) Print your final PDF.

Get the Editable Elf Calendar Printable PDF

Can you show me how this works?

Yes! We want to show you how the behind-the-scenes of the document works and instructions for how to personalize the fillable calendar.

Take a look at this video for how we edit the calendar in Adobe and how we printed the document using a home computer.

Fun Printables

Our most popular printable Christmas ideas for an Elf can be found in our shop. Shop holiday ideas, fun letters, adorable Christmas games, jokes for kids, and so much more! In addition to the calendar of elf ideas, we also include a Christmas Advent Calendar to be used with or without an Elf.

Want to edit all your Elf ideas on your computer? Grab the Editable Elf Calendar with Fillable fields today!

Shop Printables for Elves + Holiday Digital Downloads

Free Christmas Elf Printables

Free Printables Step-by-Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a signup.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with a link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

24 Bible Verses for the Elf – Printable Advent Calendar

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

January 24, 2024 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Have a Christian alternative to your daily North Pole visitor with Christmas Bible Verses for Kids. Create fun Elf ideas – Jesus Style. This advent calendar printable includes 24 days of easy Ideas for The Elf. These easy-to-read advent calendar bible verses for kids will be brought by Santa’s helper each day from December 1 until Christmas Eve. By the end, your kids will know the Christmas story, the birth of Jesus!

Want new ideas for the elf in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

Jesus is the reason for the season! Often in the commercialization of the Christmas holiday, we forget the reason we celebrate – the birth of Jesus. If you are looking for a Christian Alternative take a look at these Bible Verses and our printable Advent Calendar. You can use with or without a family elf. Tell about how baby Jesus was born via scriptures for Christmas.

Bible Verses for The Elf

Your children can still be excited about Elf and Santa while celebrating the birth of Christ too. Keep Christ in Christmas with this fun idea. This holiday season, include these short Bible Verses for the elf. Using Christmas scriptures from Luke, Matthew, Isaiah, John & 2 Corinthians, Elf will teach your child about how Mother Mary gave birth to Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the Christmas story with advent cards.

Scriptures for Advent Calendar

Advent scripture references do not have to be intimidating for kids. In fact, the Easy-to-Read Version (ERV) Bible is really clear and creates the most perfect kids’ Advent calendar story for each day. By reading from the Gospels and the Old Testament, you can teach your children that the Christmas story was foretold even before Christ’s birth.

These Bible verses for Christmas are included in the 24-day advent calendar printable.

Luke 1:26-27

Luke 1:30

Luke 1:31

Luke 1:32

Luke 1:38

Luke 2:1

Luke 2:3

Luke 2:4-5

Luke 2:6-7

Luke 2:7

Luke 2:8

Luke 2:9

Luke 2:10

Luke 2:11

Luke 2:12

Luke 2:13-14

Luke 2:16-17

Luke 2:20

Matthew 2:1

Matthew 2:9-10

Matthew 2:11

Isaiah 9:6

John 3:16

2 Corinthians 9:15

Leading up to Christmas, each day Elf can bring one verse. This doesn’t mean your elf antics have to be discontinued. Elf can still have fun with hundreds of silly, creative and even Christian Elf ideas. Turn this into a family activity. After Elf brings a card, you can decide how to display your DIY Advent Calendar with all the days verses 1 to 24.

For a great idea this advent season, have fun with and countdown the days until Christmas!

Printable Advent Calendar

Print your countdown calendar! Our printable Advent Calendar includes 24 days of Christ-centered ideas. Each day the Christmas Elf brings Advent Calendar bible verses. The story of the Birth of Christ is told through Easy to Read bible verses (ERV) using the books of Luke, Matthew, Isaiah, John & 2 Corinthians. They are age-appropriate for older kids and great for adults too.

This Advent Bible Calendar PDF can be used with or without an elf doll. You could even bring your nativity Advent Calendar Bible verses with a Shepherd on the Search.

More of our most popular printables can be found in our shop. Countdown the days with the elf advent calendar Bible verses printable. Also check out Christmas games, fun gift tags, cute notes, letters, and more.

Shop Advent Calendar Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Christmas Elf Printables

We also love sharing free printables for elves! Get all of our free printables by entering your email address below. Look for an email to confirm you signed up. Once you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password to the free printable elf props for Santa’s helper!

Free Printables Step-by-Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a signup.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with a link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

Fun Printables Ideas for Advent

Not ready to buy? That is okay. I want to make every mother have an easy season of advent with or without an Elf. Our free printable library includes access to our printable Isaiah 9:6 Bible Verse for Christmas

Isaiah 9:6 For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.

In our seasonal free printable library, you also will get access to the Advent Calendar printable stickers. This printable Christmas advent calendar numbers 1 to 24 for your holiday countdown.

This free printable advent calendar is a fun way to make a Christmas decoration with a purpose! Fill your bags with candy canes, chocolates, small toys, treats and gifts. You can hang your bags on a frame, like we did, or loop your envelopes to make a circle Christmas wreath or wreath.

This Christmas season, you might find our fun Advent Calendar Fillers for kids. Get ideas for daily surprises that are helpful with your activities cards and advent ideas. Pin to Pinterest.

In addition to the advent calendar, don’t forget to cap off Christmas Day with a Birthday Cake for Jesus. Pin to Pinterest.

Since we are being mindful parents with our family elf also take a look at these Random Acts of Kindness Elf ideas. For advent activities, there are many ways your child can do random acts of kindness including donating toys or canned goods.

Retirement Letter for The Elf – Your Exit Strategy

This post may contain affiliate links or ads. Read my privacy policy and disclosure policy here.

January 24, 2024 by Ashley at Frugal Coupon Living Filed Under: Christmas, Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Printable, Social Media, The Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Is your family elf at the finish line? Ready to hang the red hat? Download this Retirement Letter for the Elf as the moving Elf committee exit strategy. Grab new creative, funny, and original Ideas for the Holiday Elf daily to help you finish your last season.

Want new Christmas Elf Ideas in your inbox daily in the month of November & December? Sign up here!

Let’s take a minute and chat. Are you sitting down? Perhaps with a nice beverage beside you? Take a sip and let me tell you about how you can get out of your Elf moving responsibilities.

It’s been a long road. I mean since the first day your Elf arrived, you were already wondering when was going to be the last day you moved your elf – right?

What age should you stop the Elf ? Honestly, Santa’s helper can be used with preschoolers and with older kids. The Christmas Elf tends to end around preteen years. I have been moving the Elf for eleven years in our home (over ten years on the blog.) I often get asked, what do you do when your child is done with Elf? Well, though I haven’t come to that problem in our home I have come to a solution. The Holiday Elf exit strategy is an…

Elf Retirement Letter Printable

Retirement Letter for The Elf

Once you are ready to stop the Christmas tradition, gently let your son or daughter know your Elf has to move on. This holiday elf letter kindly shares with your child what a great job they have been doing. They are giving a congratulations on being assigned to the nice list and no longer need an elf visiting their home. In fact, some new families are struggling and need a visit from their family elf.

This goodbye Elf letter (passing you the tissues) retires Santa’s helper from your family’s elf duty responsibilities. The letter for elf has a male and female version (so you can choose the most fitting letter for your home – do you have ab oy or girl elf?)

Use this letter at the end of the Elf season, perhaps close to New Year’s Eve when your Elf returns to the North Pole.

Take a look at these Good-bye Elf Ideas. You can pair these last night elf deas with this goodbye printable letter of retirement.

Retirement Letter Printable for Elf

If your elf is at the Finish Line you want to download this Goodbye Elf Letter. We have an elf retirement letter for a boy elf and a girl elf (pick the one that fits your family.)

This sweet good-bye note reminds your child of the reason for the season. It tells them to hold on to the Fruits of the Spirit to remain off the naughty list. Your Elf doll will move on to another family while your child remains on the nice list.

Our most popular printables can be found in our store. Shop holiday ideas, fun letters, adorable Christmas games, jokes for kids, and so much more!

Elf Retirement Letter Printable

Fun Printables

Our most popular printable Christmas ideas for an Elf can be found in our shop. Shop holiday ideas, fun letters, adorable Christmas games, jokes for kids, and so much more!

Shop Printables for Elves + Holiday Digital Downloads

Free Christmas Elf Printables

Free Printables Step-by-Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

2.) Look for a confirmation email in your inbox and confirm you requested a signup.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with a link and passcode to all of our free printables.

4.) Enter your passcode at the top of the page here and click “Access Printables”

5. Enjoy your Elf Printables.

I am happy to share printables. When sharing with others, please lead them to my website instead of emailing them the file(s). Thanks for visiting and thanks for sharing with others!

Start A New Christmas Tradition

It’s okay to move on from Elf. Even if your child still believes in the magic of the season, there are other ways to create Family Traditions for Christmas in your home.

Family Christmas Traditions

Take a look at these 25+ Christmas Traditions to Start Now (Pin to Pinterest). Some of my favorites are unwrapping a Christmas book to read each day in December. No need to buy new books, just use some of those you have or borrow from the library. I also love the tree skirt handprint craft. You have to see it for yourself!

Advent Calendars

It is absolutely alright to go back to the reason for the season. The Birth of Christ. Take a look at these 25 Homemade Advent Calendars. (Pin to Pinterest) You can have the tradition of making a new Christmas Advent Calendar every year! See our Non-Candy Advent Calendar Filler Ideas.

My goal is to make your Elf life easier whether it’s saying good-bye, hello, or looking for ideas. Enjoy!