This might be the cutest Elf on the Shelf Idea and the easiest Elf on the Shelf idea. Perfect for the moving committee and perfect for the kids in the morning – Elf on the Shelf Ice cream cone! New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

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

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

For many of these Elf on the Shelf ideas, make sure you have an elf that can bend. You can do that easily with our Bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.  You also can shop our collection of Elf Printables for ideas to cover the entire season!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Elf Ice Cream Idea

I scream, you scream we all scream for ice scream.

Elf on the Shelf Supplies Needed

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Ice Cream Cones
• Sprinkles

In this easy Elf on the Shelf idea, we transformed Elf into an ice cream cone. First, how cute is this idea? Second, how easy is this Elf idea? That’s our goal- make it cute and fun for the kids but make it easy for the elf moving committee.

To continue with the theme, consider this Elf prop – Elves Behavin’ Badly Dropped Ice Cream.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. This can Elf on the Shelf ice cream ideas can even be paired with our ice cream party printables.

Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf 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!

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 sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with 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 on the Shelf Printables.

Elf on the Shelf on Social Media

Save these ideas because you will want to stay up to date on these ideas each Christmas season. We do our best to mix up easy and hard Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Boards

We also are in charge of a Elf on the Shelf Ideas Pinterest board. On this board, we have invited other bloggers to share their ideas and free Elf on the Shelf Printables too! Be sure to follow the board!

Our goal, to make Elf easy for you!

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a 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, the Elf is not touch 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. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

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

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

Cereal is such a fun Elf on the Shelf prop. Have fun with these Elf ideas using cereal as well as this really cool elf pouring magical cereal box. How to make this fun Elf on the Shelf Cereal Trick in 30 minutes.  New and funny Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

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

Unless you have lived under a rock, you likely have seen the Elf on the Shelf Magic Cereal Box trick. It’s quite amazing and I am always wondering – how did they do that?

The most magical time of the year also needs the most magical Elf on the Shelf idea. Have fun creating cereal pouring out of the box while suspended in air.  So how do you make this elf cereal box pouring magic?

As a reminder, on Frugal Coupon Living we bring you new Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily in the months of November and December for the past seven years. You can view our Huge List of Elf on the Shelf for a full list of ideas including every idea we have ever done. This is close to 900 Elf ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Cereal Trick

Ready to create some Oohhs & Aahhs with this really fun elf pouring magical cereal box? Your North Pole visitor is about to jaw drop your child.

Grab your levitating cereal trick supplies and take 20-30 minutes in front of your favorite television show while creating this really cool Elf on the Shelf trick.

Supplies

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Fruit Loops (or cereal of choice like Kellogg’s Elf on the Shelf cereal)
• Cereal Box
• Pipe Cleaners
• Hot Glue Gun
• Hot Glue Sticks
• Clear Packing Tape
• Cereal Bowl (Dollar Tree would be great)
• Spoon (Dollar Tree would be great)

Tip: Don’t have pipe cleaners. No worry. Roll up and bend aluminum foil. Tin foil is very moldable and can easily be bent into many shapes and sizes.

Now that we have the craft supplies, answers to how do you make that Elf on the Shelf cereal magic trick?

How to make the Elf Cereal Trick

First, don’t be intimated by this Elf on the Shelf craft. It only takes 20 – 30 minutes to create cereal that can levitate. If you are looking for a simpler Elf idea, visit our Quick and Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Open the box of cereal, remove the bag.

Pour cereal into a cereal bowl half way and set the rest aside. I personally found having the extra cereal on a sheet pan or cookie tray was great for helping me quickly grab a “fruit loop.”

Carefully glue the top half of 4 pipe cleaners together in a line and lightly spread out the bottom half like pictured.

Carefully hot glue one piece of cereal at a time to the top half of the 4 pipe cleaners. Make sure to glue them in different directions, this will help cover the pipe cleaner, and look more natural like Elf is actually pouring the cereal.

Once the top of the 4 pipe cleaners are full of cereal, start gluing the cereal onto the bottom. The bottom will be the wider area, so fill it up well with cereal.

Place the empty bag back into the cereal box and glue a handful of cereal to the spout of the box to look as if it is pouring out of the box.

Now glue the top of the pipe cleaners right under the cereal bag, on the spout area. Glue a few more pieces on top to cover any pipe cleaner showing.

You can glue edges of the cereal bag so that it doesn’t slip out of the box. You want it to look natural inside the box.

Carefully stick the wider end of the pipe cleaners into the cereal. No need to glue this down, just full the bowl with more cereal.

Using clear packing tape the box at an angle to your coffee pot, microwave, or a spot on your cabinet where paint will not come off.

Place elf on the box, use a little clear tape if need be. You want to place this in a spot that your child cannot knock it over yet still enjoy this levitating cereal trick.

Place a few extra fruit loops on the counter top for a over flowing cereal bowl effect.

Optional: If you use a bowl and spoon from the Dollar Tree for this Elf on the Shelf idea, you can glue everything in place. Maybe you can even be an amazing friend and slyly pass on to another Elf on the Shelf mom!

Tip: Our pipe cleaners were about 7 inches long.  I have seen these cereal bowl magic tricks as tall ask five feet. Just continue to layer your work and purchase extra cereal!

Can this also be done with Chocolate or Marshmallows?

You bet! Feel free to replace your magical elf trick with other props including marshmallows or gold chocolate coins.

The amazingly talented Amy at Fabyuleus Elf Duo created created silly little leprechauns using a pot of gold! How fun is that idea?

Use the same supplies to set up your Elf scene but add chocolate candies and a plastic cauldron.

In addition to tasty chocolate coins, consider using gummy bears or even Cinnamon Toast Crunch. These fun ideas come from Jessie E. and Jennifer M on Facebook.

Tip: Jennifer created the gummy bear spout and uses a wooden kitchen skewer. To get it to stay, she wedged the skewer between the spout and put the drain plug in the kitchen sink. Gummy bears covered the plug so it could not be seen.

Elf on the Shelf Cereal Ideas

Since you have the supplies, why not try these other Elf on the Shelf Ideas with cereal.

Cereal is such a fun Elf on the Shelf props. There are many cute ways to keep the cereal-theme alive!

1. Elf on the Shelf Message with Cereal (The Simple Parent)
2. Elf on the Shelf Cereal Joke
3. Elf on the Shelf Cereal Countdown
4. Elf on the Shelf Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
5. Rice Krispies Elf on the Shelf Cereal Box Head
6. Elf on the Shelf Cereal Marshmallow Bars (Mama Cheaps)
7. Elf on the Shelf Cereal Package (Kimspired DIY)

Where to Buy Elf on the Shelf Cereal

Now that we have looked at some fun ideas with Elf on the Shelf and cereal, take a look at where to buy this branded Elf on the Shelf Cereal Box in many fun flavors including sugar cookie and hot cocoa.

Elf on the Shelf Cereal Boxes are sold exclusively at Walmart (in-store and online.)

Shop one of two flavors:

• Kellogg’s The Elf on the Shelf Hot Cocoa Cereal features cocoa-coated star pieces that intermingle with white mini marshmallows, for a chocolatey taste of a mug of hot cocoa in a breakfast bowl.
• Kellogg’s The Elf on the Shelf Sugar Cookie Cereal features sugar cookie-flavored red and green star pieces and mini marshmallows dusted with edible glitter.

These are self described as the official cereal of the North Pole… we might argue anything with spaghetti, vanilla ice cream, gummy bears and fruit loops might give it a run for it’s money.

Elf Printables

Have fun with more Scout Elf on the Shelf magic tricks. In addition to the Elf on the Shelf cereal box trick, try this Elf Egg Trick!

This Elf on the Shelf Egg Trick covers two nights. Change a raw chicken egg into a kinder joy chocolate egg with a little help from sprinkles or glitter. Get your Elf Egg Magic Trick printable.

In addition, ore of our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf on the Shelf Printables

Not ready to buy? We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf 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!

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 sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with 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 on the Shelf Printables.

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

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

The days of an adorable, mischievous Elf wreaking havoc are officially upon us. Recreate these fun and easy Elf on the Shelf pranks. These mischievous Elf on the Shelf ideas are not only kid approved, they are Pinterest approved too! New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

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

Coming up with new Elf on the Shelf prank ideas looks different for every family. Just like families, elves differ. They can have different personalities, they can come in sets of one or more, they can even look differently.  Elf differences are especially true when it comes to an Elf’s personality. An Elf on the Shelf can be naughty or nice (or a little bit of both!)

Is the Elf on the Shelf Naughty or Nice?

Let’s be real. The Elf on the Shelf promotes nice behavior from your son or daughter but sometimes the Elf on the Shelf’s antics can be quite naughty. From an Elf mess to an Elf wrapped in toilet paper, it’s sometimes frustrating trying to explain why the Elf on the Shelf is naughty.

If your family finds themselves with a naughty Elf on the Shelf, you can explain Elf mischief by comparing the Elf to Amelia Bedelia. As a millennial parent born in the 80s, I found this explanation easy when describing the beloved character I grew up with. Explain that the Elf on the Shelf means well but sometimes they find themselves in silly situations that did not go as planned. For example, your Elf might have had the intention of making your child a cup of hot cocoa but instead filled the bath tub with hot chocolate and mini marshmallows instead. Another example of a naughty elf with good intentions might be told that beauty sleep means applying make-up. In this case, in the night they might apply make-up to a family members face.

24 Easy Elf Pranks

Ready to bring a little silly and fun to your Elf’s antics? Allow your child to remain on the nice list but let the Elfie bring a little bit of the fun. Take a look at this full list of 24 Elf on the Shelf Pranks for your naughty (and someone nice) Elf.

Elf Googly Eyes

Grab the Googly Eyes and Red Pom Poms for noses, Elf decorates the family photos in this silly Elf prank.

Elf Duct Tape Toilet Paper

The end is near. How fun is this Elf on the Shelf prankster who left a little Duct Tape in place of the toilet paper roll.

Elf on the Shelf Chicken Bones

Take a deep breath. Elf on the Shelf Chicken Bones. I would add to this idea a t-Rex holding a fork and knife. You can have elf return the next day with T-Rex tied up.

Elf Saran Wrap

Looks like no one is using the toilet today. Elf on the Shelf saran wraps the toilet. Looks like he got stuck too.

Elf Utensil Drawer Candy

Instead of using forks and spoons today, you will be eating candy with your hands. The utensils have been removed and candy has been replace in this funny Elf on the Shelf prank idea.

Elf Poop Peppermints

Did you know Elf’s poop peppermints? In this Elf on the Shelf bathroom idea, This Elf poop prank doesn’t stink.

Elf Wrapping Paper Living Room

This Elf idea will be a bit of a challenge. Gather all your wrapping paper and decorate the living room with this Elf on the Shelf Gift Wrapped Living Room idea.

Elf Writes Sentences

“I will not hide too hard again…” Careful with those Elf hiding places. If your elf was in too challenging of a spot, make sure he is writing sentences on the chalk board the next day.

Elf Sawed Magic Trick

We hope this silly elf prank doesn’t make the kids cry. Elf is sawed in half. You will need multiple elves on this fun idea.

Elf Levitating Cereal

This idea is next level. Learn how to do this DIY Elf on the Shelf Cereal trick. You children will be talking about it for the rest of their lives.

Elf Breakfast

If anyone is going to make you breakfast, you want it to be an Elf. This Elf on the Shelf breakfast idea is sure a sweet treat.

Elf Mr. Potato Head Fries

This Elf on the Shelf and Mr Potato Head idea sure is naughty. Poor Mr Potato head is loosing all of his insides as they drop like French fries.

Elf Underpants

“I see London, I see France, I’m flying in your underpants…” Tie your little red buddy to the fan with a fun elf note for our child in this silly prank idea.

Elf Chocolate Idea

Scout Elf got into the chocolate. So easy to set up this Elf on the Shelf chocolate prank idea.

Elf Energy Drink

Googly eyes are a fun way to pull of this Red Bull Elf on the Shelf prank. Looks like these elves drank too much energy drink.

Elf Streamers in the Hall

In this last minute Elf on the Shelf idea, grab tape and some crepe streamers. The kids will have so much fun waking up to Elf Streamers in the Hall.

Elf Cuts Hair

This bad elf is up to no good. Elf gave Barbie a hair cut. I’ve seen this done on humans so it’s a litter “nicer” wen done on a  doll – as long as it’s not your child’s favorite.

Elf Tied to the Train Track

Oh no! Elf has been tied to the train tracks. In this Elf on the Shelf train track idea, tie up elf, cover his mouth with tape and lay him on the tracks. You can even have a villain standing beside him.

Elf Snowflake Toilet Paper

Learn how to make snow flakes using toilet paper. Hint – the snowflake isn’t toilet paper. In this fun Elf on the Shelf toilet paper prank, you might have to squat on another potty. This seat’s taken by the little guy!

Elf Red Solo Cup

Ready for a very easy Elf prank idea? Lay a bunch of red SOLO cups on the ground and place Elf on the Shelf below a cup. You can slightly elevate the plastic cup or keep him hidden below.

Elf Bananas Minions

Bananas are a perfect idea for creating easy Banana Minions. Just have your little Elf  grab a sharpie, draw Stuart, Carl, Dave and their friends.

Elf Tooth Fairy

In this cute idea, the tooth fairy caught Elf on the Shelf. Such an easy idea. Simply print the Elf on the Shelf letter and wrap your elf/elves with dental floss.

Elf Under Pants Joke

How fun is this easy and simple idea. Hang underwear on the door and insert an Elf doll.

Elf Draws on Face

In this naughty elf idea, Elf used a marker to draw on a family member’s face during sleep.

More Elf on a Shelf Pranks

Since you love being silly and playful, you will also love these

• Mischievous Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Need more?  Let us supply you with more good Elf on the Shelf pranks that might be more specific to your needs, settings and desired adventures.

See similar content…

• Quick & Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas

• Elf on the Shelf Bathroom Antics

• Classroom Elf on the Shelf Pranks

• Elf on the Shelf Jokes

• Elf on the Shelf Hiding Spaces

• Lazy Elf on the Shelf Ideas

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Multiple Elves

All of these last minute Elf on the Shelf ideas can be created in just a few seconds to a few minutes time. We see you super star! Go get ’em and have an amazing Elf season full of creative ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf 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!

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 sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with 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.

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf ideas, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a elf doll. The book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. The Elf visits each Thanksgiving. He or 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, the Elf is not touch 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. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the helpful Elf on the Shelf links to come up with create ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions. 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.

Santa’s putting together his naughty and nice list. Download and print this Elf on the Shelf free Christmas countdown PDF plus bonus nice & naughty list today! New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

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

Christmas will be here before you know it and you know what that means…excited kids who just can’t wait for the big day. Help them to express their excitement, countdown the days, and maybe even encourage good behavior with a Christmas countdown!

How do you make a Christmas countdown at home?

If you are the parent of a young child, you know the phrase “how many days until…?” A family Christmas countdown can help to really bring the length of time until Christmas home in a tangible way that little kids can see. Plus if you are making your own, they create fun activities in anticipation of Christmas.

There are plenty of ways to create Christmas countdowns…

• DIY Chalkboard Christmas Countdown 

• Bible Verse Advent Calendar

• Hanging Christmas Countdown Advent Calendar with Stickers

• Paper Chain Countdown

• Christmas Movie Challenge Countdown

• Building Blocks LEGO Christmas Countdown

• Christmas Countdown Clock

Most kids know all about Santa and how he’s making a list and checking it twice, gonna find out who’s naughty or nice. These adorable Santa countdown ideas give your child a visual of how close December 25th is. They don’t want to end up on the naughty list this close to Christmas, do they?

In addition to the above Christmas Countdown ideas, help your child countdown the days until Christmas with a free Christmas countdown printable!

Christmas Countdown Printable

To help parents are tired of repeating themselves, we put together a blank printable Christmas countdown template. Download and print this printable countdown. You can laminate it so you can daily write down the days until Christmas with a dry erase marker and hang it from the fridge or a common area in the home. If you have a hole punch and string, turn this into holiday decorations and put it on the top of the tree or a fireplace mantel for a fun place to display a countdown.

Instead of lamination, some parents and teachers prefer to slip the Christmas calendar countdown and Santa Claus’s naughty or nice list inside of a picture frame. Since there is not as much room to trim this 8.5 x 11 printable PDF, consider picking up an 8.5 x 11 photo frame so it fits the actual size.

You can still use your dry erase markers to easily write and wipe off numbers and dates from the frames. You might even pick up a special Christmas-themed picture frame at your local dollar store.

How many days until Christmas?

Use this Christmas Clock to keep track of the days until Christmas morning.

This free printable Christmas countdown calendar also helps you to keep track of how many days are left until Christmas. If you change the numbers on the calendar each day you can just say there are only “ #” number of days left until Christmas once a day instead of being asked a million times per day.

Well, that’s the idea anyway…they still might ask. Just hopefully not over and over.

So how should you use this Christmas printable countdown? There are a couple of different ways that you might choose to use it. The final page of this free printable counting down the days to Christmas set is a page with how many days are left until Christmas. Laminate this page, or put it in a clear sheet protector and hang it where the kiddos can see it. Use a dry erase marker and write the correct number of days remaining until Christmas.

Santa’s Naughty and Nice List Printable

As the days until Christmas get closer, we wanted to add another fun Christmas printable. How about something a bit naughty or nice.

The 2nd page of this three page set is Santa’s naughty or nice list. You can print this page for each individual child and track not only if they are on the naughty or nice list, but how many days they have spent on each one. There is a place for them to write their names right at the top of the page so you know who it belongs to. This is something the Scout Elves can deliver closer to Christmas or early in the season.

You can also use this second page with Santa’s naughty list or nice list in a classroom setting or with a Christmas party. Laminate Santa’s official nice list and write each child’s first name on the naughty or nice side according to their behavior in class each day with your dry erase marker. You can of course always move their names from one side to the other if their behavior changes over the course of the day.

If this would bring shame to to your students/child, maybe keep this private and light hearted. The goal is recognizing good favour, good deeds and your good boy and girl with their name written on the good list.

Elf on the Shelf Good and Bad Behavior Ideas: Hey mom! See also these encouraging Elf on the Shelf Behavior Ideas. Santa’s helpers have many ways they can help and this blog post is your resource of recommendations and ideas!

Christmas Elf on the Shelf Countdown Ideas

And don’t forget everyone’s favorite elf. Santa’s little helper is a popular activity that parents and kids both love each holiday season.
In fact, if you need creative Elf on the Shelf ideas, you can have the Elf on a Shelf deliver the countdown and naughty or nice list to make it even more fun!

Don’t have an Elf on a Shelf yet? Here’s what you need to know about Santa’s helpers!

Elf Countdown Examples

Take a look at these fun Elf on the Shelf blog ideas and how you can incorporate your free countdown printable into your daily Elf ideas.

• Elf on the Shelf Cereal Countdown
• Elf on the Shelf Toilet Paper Countdown
• Elf on the Shelf Advent Calendar
• Elf on the Shelf Chalkboard Calendar Craft

Let’s use our Christmas count down free printable and put together a fun Elf on the Shelf countdown calendar.

Tip! Parents, don’t forget this Elf on the Shelf calendar for planning your own Elf ideas until Christmas!

Supply List

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Cardstock or regular printer paper
• Printer
• Christmas countdown calendar printable PDF file
• Picture frame or laminator / laminator sheets
• Dry erase marker

Directions

Access our free download in the Elf printable library. Download the Christmas countdown and naughty and nice list.

Print the printable set at home (or at an online print shop.)

Laminate both sheets so that you are able to use them with dry erase markers.

You and your child keep track of the days until Christmas.

Talk about good and bad behavior in an encouraging way and keep track of the naughty and nice list.

This list can also come from Santa in a special envelope one time a few days before Christmas with your child’s names listed under nice.

These free Christmas countdown and Santa’s naughty or nice list printables are really cute and they help to bring a little excitement and joy to you and your kids. They might even keep your kid’s behavior in check as they work hard to make sure the department of Christmas affairs keeps them on Santa’s nice list. He is watching, you know!

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf on the Shelf Countdown Printables

Use this fun Naughty or Nice List printable plus free Christmas Countdown calendar printable with or without your Elf doll. This is available in our Elf on the Shelf free printable library!

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf 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 access the free CHristmas 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 sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with 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.

Disclosure: By downloading digital items you are accepting the copyright terms and permissions that this is for personal, non-commercial use. Please contact Frugal Coupon Living with any questions. If you don’t have a printer, use a photo lab, local copy shop or Staples online printing for high quality print. The colors of the final print can vary by the printer.

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

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf ideas, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a 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, the Elf is not touch 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. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the helpful Elf on the Shelf links to come up with create ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Want more help on social media? Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions.

Leave a comment here or on Pinterest about ho the Christmas Countdown Calendar and Santa’s list worked for your family members.

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.

Grab this free printable Elf on the shelf Target Practice. have fun creating a silly and messy Elf idea using ketchup and a few materials from your kitchen. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

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

Don’t let your eyes fool you. No reason to hypnotize yourself with the rotating red and white bullseye… doesn’t Target seem to do that? Today we are talking all things Elf on the Shelf and Target but don’t’ worry. You won’t walk in a Target for one thing and end up with a cart full of things. In fact, in this Elf on the Shelf Target focused blog post, we are gifting you a free Elf on the Shelf Target printable to have create a hilarious Elf on the Shelf idea with a ketchup bullseye!

Let’s begin!

Elf on the Shelf Target

First let’s talk about Elf on a Shelf and Target stores. Target department store is an excellent resource for buying Elf on the Shelf dolls and accessories online. Elf on the Shelf Target items include stands, scooters, prop kits, elf pets, elf costumes elf books and more.

From personal experience, many times, I have been able to purchase presale Elf on the Shelf at Target before accessories and props are even live. This allows me to purchase and “forget it” as the item ships, once the New Elf the Shelf products hit the shelves.

Take a look at a few of these cute Elf on the Shelf props at Target.

• Elf on the Shelf Scooter Stand-n-Scoot
• Elf on the Shelf Fireman Costume
• Elf on the Shelf Touched In Case of Elftastrophe Emergency Guide Book
• Elf on the Shelf Starry Night Tent and Telescope
• Elf on the Shelf Artic Fox Pet
• Elf on the Shelf Pet Costumes
• Elf on the Shelf Baby Costume
• Miniature Elf on the Shelf Figurines
• Elf on the Shelf Scout Elves at Play Props
• Elf on the Shelf Ornament
• Elf on the Shelf The Night Before Christmas Book
• Elf on the Shelf Sno Prizes
• Elf on the Shelf Elves at Play Pop-Ups

See the full Target Elf on the Shelf section online. Many of those items are available for pre-order early in the Elf season.

Elf on the Shelf Ketchup Target Practice

Want to have target practice fun? Looking for a silly Elf on the Shelf idea? We have your covered. This messy elf idea with ketchup can be implemented quickly with a few materials in your kitchen and home office.

Materials

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Ketchup
• Printer
• Printer Paper
• Tape
• Optional: Baking Sheet

Instructions

Start by downloading the Elf on the Shelf Target practice free printable (see below.) We include a printable bullseye with number or without numbers. You choose. Once you have downloaded your digital file, print from your at home computer or local print shop.

For this funny Elf on the Shelf idea, hang up the Target Practice with tape. The backsplash of a kitchen countertop is an excellent location.

Lay a cookie tray on your countertop or stovetop. This is a messy Elf on the Shelf idea.

Spray the ketchup to hit anywhere on the target bullseye. The center is best – wink!

Sit the Scout Elf doll on top of the ketchup

This Elf idea took under 5 minutes quick!

Extend the Elf Idea

You are not limited by how we have staged this Elf on the Shelf Idea. Extend this funny elf idea by adding your own touch.

• In similar fashion, turn this into an Elf on the Shelf Bathroom idea. Just use toothpaste instead of Ketchup.
• Hang Elf from a zip line from the banister or top of the stairs. This can be made of ribbon and have Elf swing in toward the Target practice for landing.
• Use an Elf on the Shelf Parachute for Arrival and have Elf land on a bullseyes eye from the ceiling fan or the fire place.
• Write a note to Santa and ask him to deliver Christmas presents to the bulleyes eye. Place below the fireplace or on the Christmas tree and see if he delivers toys, stocking stuffers or small trinket.
• Reindeer poop is a little bit naughty (unless it’s chocolate and then oh so nice.) In this naughty elf idea, use your reindeer Elf pet and use the target practice printable for small reindeer poop pellets. Oh deer!
• Put the target below an Elf on the Shelf Toilet paper Roll Ball Run. See if the pom-poms land on the Target.
• For good behavior, add a special treat to the center of the bullseye like a cupcake with sprinkles scattered about.
• Use the bullseye at the end of an Elf on the Shelf Scavenger hunt for a small prize.
• For a last minute idea, place a cup of hot chocolate in the middle of the printable target.  Use mini marshmallows and allow your child to toss them into the cup of hot cocoa for a silly elf activity.
• Grab a sling shot toy and cotton balls. This target is perfect for a little bit of mischief.

Did you do anything different? Leave a comment below and share your creative ideas. Tell us how you used this Elf Target Practice.

Elf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf on the Shelf Target Printable

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! This Elf on the Shelf Target Bullseye eye download in our free gift to you.

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf 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!

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 sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with 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, 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!

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf scenarios, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a 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, the Elf is not touch each evening or his Christmas magic will be lost! Each family is able to name their special elf. Santa’s helpers return to their home (Santa’s North Pole Work shop) every Christmas Eve. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the popular posts and Elf on the Shelf links to come up with crate ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Follow on social media! Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions. 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.

The Christmas season can bring the good and the bad. These printable Elf on the Shelf report cards will use your family elf as encourager to your child’s heart. More Elf behavior notes include Elf on Strike signs, Elf Prescription printables, Elf Naughty or Nice Notes, Elf behavior chart and more.  New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

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

The purpose of an Elf on the Shelf is to spread joy, bring cheer, and remind boys girls to be nice. However, children are human and sometimes bad behavior occurs. It’s important to have an Elf resource that can pat your child on the back for the good and remind your child to try harder during the bad.

Let’s take a look at the point of the Elf on the Shelf, how to encourage good behavior and ideas for what to do when your child has bad behavior.

What’s the point of Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas tradition. Elf on Shelf is a children’s book written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell. The Elf on the Shelf book is poetic and in rhyme sharing the purpose of the Elf’s visits. Elves from the North Pole visit families to encourage good behavior and report back to Santa. Santa uses this messages to help create his naughty and nice list before Christmas day.

According to Businesswire, the Elf on the Shelf’s company mission statement reads

Ultimately, CCA and B is faithful to their mission of “tapping into the magic of believing and love of tradition at Christmastime by creating Christmas characters, stories and lore through consumer products, immersive experiences and entertainment-based content.”

In the spirit of the Elf tradition, The goal is to encourage good behavior. This positive Christmas character’s purpose is not to bring shame or anxiety to young children but rather to remind them that this season is about good deeds and acts of kindness toward others. Read more about Elf on the Shelf Meaning Explained.

Does Elf really encourage kids good behavior?

Yes, use Elf help as a fun way to encourage boys and girls to be nice. The holiday season can be overwhelming for many younger children. There are parties, activities and many additional distractions. Elf brings a good visual that visits in a fun and friendly way. Through friendly Elf ideas and behavior notes, Elf can remind your child to work on their best behavior.

It’s important to have good Elf on the Shelf ideas when bad behavior is present. This is not to shame your children or to make them feel badly. Rather your Christmas Elf can be used to encourage your child to continue good work or stop bad work.

What are some Elf on the Shelf Bad Behavior Ideas?

Since your Elf is reporting back to Santa, elf can watch for good behavior during the holiday season. From December 1st until Christmas Day, the Elf will (of course) arrive with fun antics.  Also during that time, the Elf will be ready to report to Santa good and bad behavior in their host family.

Your child is imperfect. You didn’t need to read this sentence to know that. Using the Elf as a threat for punishment (e.g., no presents) may be fear-inducing and contrary to the goal of using the Elf to bring joy. Because of this, it’s important to have a list of encouraging Elf on the Shelf ideas for bad behavior.

• Elf brings a Strike Sign
• Have has a prescription to sit out
• Elf delivers a behavior note from Santa
• Elf write a letter about behavior
• Elf uses a behavior chart to encourage good behavior
• Elf uses a report card to encourage your child

Elf on the Shelf on Strike

One silly Elf idea for bad behavior is picketing with printable Elf on Strike Signs. This still keeps your Elf in the home but rather he/she can sit in one spot on strike until your child does as they say. Hopefully these Elf on Strike ideas are less manipulative and more intrinsically encouraging.

• Elf on Strike: No Talking Back
• Elf on Strike: Clean Your Room
• Elf on Strike: Get Along with Siblings
• Elf on Strike: Listen to Your Parents
• Elf on Strike: Be Good At School

For these Elf strike signs, you decide how long Elf is picketing.

Elf on the Shelf Prescription Notes

The North Pole doctors are always paying close attention to their elves. This includes the results of poor health due to bad behavior. In this bad behavior idea, the elf will be delivered with an Elf on the Shelf prescription for sitting out. These Elf on the Shelf notes from the doctor include prescriptions for a messy room or for touching the Elf.

• Magic Lost: No moving for one day. Do not touch the Elf!
• Broken Leg: No moving for two days. Elf tripped on your stuff. Clean up!

Elf on the Shelf Behavior Note

Keep it simple with an official behavior note form Elf on a Shelf. Check naughty or nice and write your own message of what the Elf saw. These are easy, direct and straight to the point.

In this example, Elf checked naughty and whitnessed the child “not sharing your toys.”

Elf on the Shelf Behavior Letter

The best thing about a printable Elf on the Shelf bad behavior letter is you can personalize the message. Use our Elf letter templates and write you own message. This allows you to address your child’s bad behavior (or good behavior) and encourage them to do their best.

In this bad behavior letter example, you can leave the Scout Elf out of the equation. Have Elf on the Shelf not arrive for the night. The next morning they would leave an envelope with a letter from Santa (or the head Elf) behind.

For an Elf on the Shelf Good behavior letter, write a message that offers encouragement or intrinsic motivation. Write your child’s name and then say something to the effect of “I see you doing _____, keep up the good work!” Sign with your elf’s name. You could even leave behind a small present, prize or piece of candy.

Elf on the Shelf Behavior Chart

If it will take some time to work on poor behavior, incorporate this free printable Elf on the Shelf behavior chart. Use this candy cane cheer-o-meter to track daily behavior all the way from extra nice to naughty.

• Extra Nice: Santa knows you’ve been kind. He will bring you everything on your mind.
• Nice: You’ve been good this year, Santa’s sure to bring Christmas cheer.
• Danger Zone: He’s making a list and checking it twice, he knows if you’ve been naughty or nice.
• Naughty: Start on a good roll or you’ll get coal.

This behavior chart can be hung in a common space like the kitchen or paly room. you can also keep it in each child’s bedroom for personal accountability.

Elf on the Shelf Report Card

Does your child have real anxiety? Use these printable report cards to encourage kids’ behavior in a fun lighthearted way! This set of report cards includes both good, bad and silly behavior traits. That means this can easily be a funny Elf on the Shelf idea too.

Supplies

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Printer paper or card stock
• Printer
• Elf on the Shelf Report Card Digital Download (see below)

These report cards can be printed form your home computer. Use computer paper or white cardstock.

How to Use the Elf on the Shelf Report Card

It’s really easy to create the report card Elf on the Shelf idea. Simply download the reports cards which come in a few behavior report ideas…

• Good Report
• Bad Report
• Silly Report

Once you download the behavior reports, print them from your computer (or visit Staples Copy Center.) Cut out the four reports and choose which is most fitting for your child.

Complete the report card with the child’s name, the date, and checks for the appropriate report. You can even add a small note. You can even make a report card for each child.

Stage the Elf to hold the report card for your child to view in the morning.

Viola! The message is clear.

Can I use the report cards for good behavior?

Yes (yes and yes!) These printable Elf on the Shelf reports also have ideas for good behavior. These Elf on the Shelf behavior letters are perfect for good kids too! In fact, we can recognize the good in everyone! While it’s important as parents (and members of the Elf moving committee) to correct bad behavior, it’s also very important for us to recognize and share reflections of good behavior. Use this printable report card to recognize things like being “amazing in school” or “looking swaggah” (may favorite!)

Printable Elf on the Shelf Report Cards

These four Elf report cards come with a list of different silly, good and bad reports. There is room to write the child’s name and the date. There is also room to fill in and other row with encouragement or a behavior that you are unable to check.

Example report card for good behaviors include…

• helpful around the house
• sharing with others
• amazing at school
• a good eater
• sharing

Example report card for bad behaviors include…

• crying or whining
• naughty
• very messy
• not listening to adults
• too silly

Example report card for silly behaviors include…

• driving too fast
• a little stinker
• looking swaggah
• slightly stinky
• needing more tinsel

In this set of four printable progress reports, there is a blank report card so you can fill in your own report card checklist.

These printable cards cannot be edited. They are non-editable digital downloads but there is room to grab a marker, pen, or pencil and write your own message from the little elves.

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Report Card Printable PDF + Digital Downloads

Free Elf on the Shelf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf 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 access any free elf printable you would like!

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 sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with 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.

Disclosure: By downloading digital downloads you are accepting the copyright terms and permissions that this is for personal, 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!

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf ideas, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a 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, the Elf is not touch 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. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the helpful Elf on the Shelf links to come up with create ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions. 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.

Count down the days until Christmas with this fun DIY Christmas Calendar. This Elf on the Shelf Dollar Tree idea is a great prop for your little red North Pole visitor. Grab the free Elf on the Shelf printable for your Cricut machine and enjoy more Elf on the Shelf Dollar Tree ideas. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily. 

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

Every December 25, Christmas is celebrated. This holiday is annual festival commemorating the birth of Jesus Christ. In addition to the birth of Christ, there are some commercial events around the holiday including the arrival of Santa Claus on Christmas morning. Saint Nicolas comes and drops off gifts and presents for those boys and girls found on the nice list. In order to help Santa create his nice list, an Elf on the Shelf arrives early in the season. The elf goes back to the North Pole every evening telling Santa who has been naughty or nice.

Are you anticipating the arrival of the Elf on the Shelf? If you can’t wait to welcome a little red guy in your home, it is important to know when the Elf on the Shelf arrives and how long the Elf stays.

What are the dates for Elf on the Shelf?

The Elf on the Shelf arrives on Thanksgiving or shortly after. In some cases, a home might not get a little red Elf until December 1st. In other houses, the Elf on the Shelf might only arrive a few weeks before Christmas. Each home is different and if your child is asking “where is my Elf on the Shelf” explain to them that sometimes there is a very long line of elves trying to leave North Pole Customs and Border Protection.

If you have more dying Elf on the Shelf questions, make sure you read them all including when does Elf on the Shelf leave and can the Elf on the Shelf be touched? To guide your children into following Santa’s rules for Elf, download this free printable Elf on the Shelf rules.

Does Dollar Tree Have Elf on the Shelf?

No. The Dollar Tree does not carry Elf on the Shelf. The official Elf on the Shelf Doll is found at many major retailers including Amazon, Target and Walmart locations. It’s important to notes that the Scout Elf Doll comes with an Elf on the Shelf book. This is a set. The doll will have a red body, red hat and white collar. Any different colors you find like purple, green, orange, camo, or leopard are knock-off versions.

A few years ago, Dollar General acquired elves called Elf Mates. This was not the official Scout Elf brand however CC&B LLC (the Elf on the Shelf parent company) did purchase these elves and now sell them too. They are considered friendly Elf workshop helpers and not the little red guy that comes to your home each day.

Hobby Lobby created cheap elf dolls in gray and snowflake patterns in late Fall of 2021 but they were pull from the shelves for being very similar in style to to the trademarked Elf on a Shelf.

DIY Elf on the Shelf Countdown to Christmas

As little kids we squirm until Christmas morning. There is something about the magic and excitement of the holiday season that has everyone anxious for the climax – Christmas Day! If your child is so ready for a visit form St. Nick himself, countdown the days until Santa’s arrival with this easy to make DIY Christmas Calendar.

This fun Countdown to Christmas craft is perfect for your Elf on the Shelf craft. It comes with a free “days until Christmas” SVG file. Simply use a piece of chalk to change the number daily. Not only does it keep the excitement alive until Christmas but for younger children it gives a visual of how far away Christmas really is.

Supplies

Before you begin your Elf on the Shelf countdown calendar, you will need a few simple supplies. Some of these supplies you will have on hand, others you might need to purchase at the Dollar Store or your local craft store. We picked up our mini chalkboard at the Dollar Tree making this Christmas craft very affordable!

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Mini chalkboard (we got ours from the Dollar Tree)
• Red paint
• Paint brush
• Red vinyl
• Transfer tape
• Cricut Vinyl Cutter
• Chalk
• Optional: Countdown to Christmas SVG file (find in Free Elf on the Shelf printables)

Don’t have a Cricut Explorer? No problem, this sign can still be made and used without the red vinyl countdown.

How to make an Elf on the Shelf Countdown Calendar

First pickup an wooden calendar board from the Dollar Tree or your local craft store. (You can find similar chalk boards here, here, here, here and here.)

Paint the frame of the chalkboard red and allow the paint to dry completely.

Upload the SVG into Design Space and resize to fit your chalk board, if needed.

Weld all the letters together and hit the green Make It button.

Place the red vinyl on the cutting mat and load it into the Cricut.

Set the dial on the machine to vinyl and cut the design.

Weed out the excess vinyl and place a piece of transfer tape on top.

Transfer the vinyl design to the bottom of the chalkboard.

Use the Dollar Tree Christmas Chalkboard Sign to countdown the number of days until Christmas with your Elf on a Shelf.

More Dollar Store + Elf on the Shelf

If you are new or Elf on the Shelf or even an expert, you know that the Elf doll requires many accessories. Every new Elf on the Shelf idea can be put together with toys around the home, low-cost Elf printable props, or more expensive Elf on the Shelf accessories. At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal is to have a low-cost Elf on the Shelf season. Take a look at some of these props you can pick up at the Dollar Store for your Elf on the Shelf doll.

What can I buy at the Dollar Tree for Elf on the Shelf Ideas?

Just a few simple props can be picked up from your local Dollar Tree to keep the Elf on the Shelf tradition alive! These low-cost Elf on the Shelf accessories will help you get through the entire Elf season with a few stellar fun ideas.

When looking around the store, make sure you have access to the huge Elf on the Shelf list of ideas on hand. It might help your creative juices to begin flowing.

Just a few examples of Dollar Tree Elf props:

1. Miniature Games – Elves love to play games because they are lots fun. From Tic-Tac-Toe, Connect 4, Twister, Chutes and Ladders and more.
2. Balloons – Trap your Elf in a balloon, make a hot air balloon or make a bubble gum fart.
3. Candy Canes – This Christmas candy can go along way with ideas including a candy cane scavenger hunt.
4. Mason Jar – A jar is not only great for Elf quarantine but also for carrying your elf around with Elf travel.
5. Pom Poms – Pom poms can be turned into snow balls or even a fun marble run.
6. Marshmallows – Marshmallows really provide endless funny Elf on the Shelf ideas like a bubble bath, building a snowman, cup of hot cocoa or snowball fight.
7. Ornaments – Make your Elf on the Shelf wreath or milk glass.
8. Tissue Box – Turn a tissue box into a bed or use it to take a day or two off with an Elf prescription doctor’s note.
9. Cereal – Make a levitating magic cereal or cut a hole and place your elf through the box.
10. Gift Wrap – Bows are perfect for Elf rock climbing while wrapping paper can make pretty cool Elf stilts.
11. Popcorn – Popcorn is perfect for making garland, an elf Microwave idea or even an Elf movie night complete with snacks.
12. Stickers – Stickers quickly decorate your Elf. Make a photo booth prop, create eye emojis, or just cover the elf completely for a silly idea.

While the Dollar Tree does sell many of these items online, often you have to buy in bulk. It’s best to run to your local dollar store and look for many of these items in their Christmas, home, craft supplies, and toy aisle.

Find more Elf on the Shelf ideas on Frugal Coupon Living.

Elf on the Shelf Printables

Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Our Elf shop also contains the Elf on the Shelf Advent Calendar filled with easy to read Bible verses for kids. These verses tell the story of Jesus, his birthday and resurrection. There are enough Advent Bible Verses for Kids for Elf on the Shelf to bring daily. This is a fun Christmas calendar you can do with or without an Elf doll.

Shop Elf Advent Calendar Printables + Digital Downloads

Free Elf Printables

Are you prepared when it comes to the Elf season? We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! Gather everything you need including this Free Elf on the Shelf Calendar printable sign.

If you would prefer a calendar you can edit on the computer, you can grab our editable Elf on the Shelf calendar too in the Etsy Elf Store. Otherwise the Elf on the Shelf calendar printable comes with blank pages you can write on.

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf 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!

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 sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with 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.

Elf on the Shelf Resources

At Frugal Coupon Living, our goal, to create an easy Elf on the Shelf season for you. This is not our first year of having an Elf in the home. With over eight years of Elf ideas, we have created a rather large Elf on the Shelf fan club full of new Elf on the Shelf ideas. These Elf on the Shelf resources are all you need to create the best Elf ideas.

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a 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, the Elf is not touch 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. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

More Helpful Elf on the Shelf Links

Some call Frugal Coupon Living the biggest resource for all things Elf on the Shelf. While we don’t want to brag, we will. We have move our red little North Pole friend for year after year. We have created plenty of free printables, must have resources, inspirational Elf links and more. Use us at a platform to keep your sanity through the entire Christmas season.

Use the helpful Elf on the Shelf links to come up with create ideas, grab free printables, and answer Elf on the Shelf Questions.

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas – a Starter guide to all things elf including some of our top post ideas and Elf on the Shelf digital downloads.
• Largest List of Elf on the Shelf Ideas – Now over 600 Elf on the Shelf ideas. New ideas added daily during November and December.
• Elf on the Shelf Questions and Answers – Are you just beginning with an Elf? Could you use a refresher of all the Elf rules. Take a look at frequently asked elf on the shelf questions to get started. You will immediately be an Elf expert.
• Free Elf on the Shelf Printables – Sign up for our emails and grab these free Elf digital downloads to help you during the Elf season. Includes an Elf calendar, notes, Elf coloring pages, encouraging ideas and more.
• DIY Bendable Elf on the Shelf – Want your Elf to do all sorts of positions. This is an easy no-sew bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.
• Elf Shop with Digital Downloads – This is one of the best Elf shops full of printable resources to perfect the holiday season.
• Elf on the Shelf Emails with New  Ideas Daily – Each day we will write you with a new Elf on the Shelf idea as well as links to Elf on the shelf resources and sometimes hidden coupon codes and freebies!

Take a look at the Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board. Tell us what easy ideas and crafts you are doing with your Elf on the Shelf this season. Is there an Elf idea we haven’t tried? Do you have any Elf on the Shelf questions. 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.

Want some thoughtful kids activities for the holidays? Download and print these kindness elves printables to get your kids excited for Elf on the Shelf and spreading cheer! Choose kindness and get started with these ELFless Random Acts of Kindness ideas today. Creative, funny, and new ideas for Elf on the Shelf daily.

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

With the holidays approaching, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about ways to spread some holiday cheer! One fun way to do this is with a little help from the elves. These Kindness Elves Printables are a great way to encourage your kids to be kind and do good deeds throughout the holiday season.

Pay it Forward Christmas Ideas

The holiday season is a perfect time to shower others with daily acts of kindness. You know the expression “the gift of giving.” Giving of yourself and your time really is a gift to yourself.  Teach your children the importance of serving others with Christmas pay it forward ideas.

These fun kindness elves notes can be used with or without an Elf on the Shelf. In fact, you can use the ideas to fill your home with the act of serving others not even using an Elf.

Take a look at some of these fun ideas for paying it forward this Christmas.

Pass Out Candy Canes

Clean Your Sibling’s Room

Bake a Treat for  Neighbor

Collect Toys to Donate to Someone Else

Collect and Deliver Cans for  Food Pantry

Donate Old Blankets or Towels to the Animal Shelter

Write a Kind Note for your Teacher

Forgive Someone and Pray for Them

Volunteer

Do a Chore for your Brother or Sister

Set the Dinner Table

Pick up Trash at the Park

These are just a few of the fun 25 Christmas daily acts of kindness you can do this holiday season.

If you found showing others thoughtful gestures a bit fun, then see more ways to pay it forward with Random Acts of Kindness (RAKs) all year.

What is the Story of the Kindness Elves?

The Story of the the Kindness Elves is a book written by Anna Ranson and Benjamin Byrne. The Kindness Elves storybook introduces children to the joy that showing daily acts of kindness can bring, in whimsical and magical ways. The elves focus on love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and goodness (which you might recognize as the Fruits of the Spirit.)

While the book is an introduction to the Kindness Elves dolls and Accessories Kit, they do not have to be used with holiday kindness gestures. The two can be separated and used individually.

Whether you believe in elves or not, kindness elves are real because acts of good gestures are real. We can all be a secret Santa or an empathetic elf with small acts of kind gestures this Christmas season.

Ways to Use the Kindness Elf on the Shelf Printable

Some say the best way to spread Christmas cheer is by singing loud for all to hear. We all know that using ones vocal chords do the loudest degree might actually do the opposite. This season, bring empathy, gratitude and (of course) holiday cheer by performing Random Acts of Kindness for Christmas.

As busy parents, sometimes it’s hard to come up with new ideas on our own. This Christmas kindness elves resource is all you need to jump start that idea. Once you print off these 25 Kindness Elves Ideas, there are several ways you can use them.

Random Acts of Kindness

Have your kids pick one random act of kindness to do each day! They can choose from the elf ideas or they can write down their own on the cards provided. This promote kindness, sharing, and gratitude in children.

Good Deed Tracker

If you have an Elf on the Shelf, you could put these papers in his backpack and have him bring one to your child each day. Your kid can then do the good deed and check it off the list with the included good deed checklist. It’s like a little book of big kindness record keeper.

Classroom Kindness Challenge

Challenge your child’s class to see who can complete the most acts of kindness! Each day, have your child write down the act of kindness they completed and then bring it back to school to add to the classroom chart. This is incredibly cute if you are a teacher doing Elf on the Shelf in the classroom. You could even make this pat of your school community and give each classroom a challenge of getting the most RAKs.

Kid’s Choice

Let your kids choose which act of kindness they want to do each day. They can mix it up and do different things or they can focus on one type of act (like always giving compliments or a smile).

Start a Kindness Chain

See how long you can keep the kindness going! After your child completes an act of kindness, have them find someone else to do something nice for. That person can then pay it forward and do something nice for someone else. Keep going to see how long the chain can be! You could incorporate this into a Christmas paper chain craft alternating festive red and green construction paper. See how long your chain can get.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Cut the mischief! Toss the pranks. If you have an Elf on the Shelf doll, he can deliver cards with acts of kindness kids can do each day. This could be delivered with his new location each day. You could even deliver a kindness card in the mailbox as daily mail. You could also have him do one of the acts of kindness himself and then leave a note for your child explaining what he did. Use with an Elf doll or with the original Kindness Elves Dolls. Check out more Elf on the Shelf Ideas here.

Christmas Traditions

Start a new tradition that feels a little bit more true to the celebration of the season. You can easily print off these Kindness Elves ideas and use them in your Christmas Eve traditions. We like to use the kindness ideas alongside our other Christmas traditions like Christmas pajamas, a holiday movie, or even a night before Christmas book!

Give as a Gift

If you LOVE this Kindness Elf on the Shelf printable, then you’re really going to LOVE giving it as a gift. You can package it up and give it to a friend, neighbor, or family member. It makes the perfect Christmas gift!

The holidays are a time to spread cheer and kindness, and what better way to do that than with these adorable printables? These Kindness Elves Ideas are perfect for encouraging your kids (and even adults!) to do good deeds throughout the holiday season. You can use them in several different ways, like tracking good deeds, doing random acts of kindness, or even starting a kindness chain.

Kindness Elf on the Shelf Printables

Let’s be ELFless (selfless) and choose kindness! Are you ready to print our Kindness Elves Resources? Grab this Kindness Elf Printable Bundle in our Elf store and immediately have 25 daily magic of kindness ideas.

What’s included in the set?

• 25 Kindness cards on small notes for the elves to deliver (use or without your own kindness elves)
• A Random Act of Kindness Checklist to keep track of your progress
• Optional: Blank Elf notes for you to personalize fill out on your own

Have an amazing impact while having lots of fun! Let’s make the world kinder – grab these Random Acts of Kindness Elf on the Shelf ideas today!

Want more? Our most popular Elf prop printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop Elf costumes, our Elf Twister board, Jokes for Kids, our Magic Shrinking Machine and so much more!

Shop Elf Kindness Cards Printable + Digital Downloads

Free Elf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! From an Elf on the Shelf calendar, to notes, postcards, letter boards and more you will want to be apart of this free printable library. This kindness theme also fits the give a hand kindness Elf on the Shelf printable.

Get all of our free Elf on the Shelf 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!

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 sign up.

3.) We will send you a Free Printables Welcome Email with 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 on the Shelf Printables.

In our free printable library, you can also shower a delivery driver with this free Random Acts of Kindness printable for USPS, FedEx and UPS.

More Elf on the Shelf Fun

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

For many of these Elf on the Shelf ideas, make sure you have an elf that can bend. You can do that easily with our Bendable Elf on the Shelf tutorial.  You also can shop our collection of Elf Printables for ideas to cover the entire season!

Elf on the Shelf on Social Media

Save these ideas because you will want to stay up to date on these ideas each Christmas season. We do our best to mix up easy and hard Elf on the Shelf Ideas.

Elf on the Shelf Facebook Page

Multiple ideas are added each day to our Elf on the Shelf Ideas Facebook page. This is a great way for you to share your own Elf on the Shelf Ideas and share our ideas to your page. There are some good ones! Be sure to like the page!

Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Boards

We also are in charge of a Elf on the Shelf Ideas Pinterest board. On this board, we have invited other bloggers to share their ideas and free Elf on the Shelf Printables too! Be sure to follow the board!

Our goal, to make Elf easy for you!

What is Elf on the Shelf?

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas Tradition. The tradition has a book and a 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, the Elf is not touch 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. An Elf’s Story can also be found on DVD.

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

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