Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas tradition that involves toy elves being placed around the home during December to keep an eye on whether kids are being naughty or nice. Looking for some easy Elf on the Shelf ideas that you can replicate in your own home for Christmas 2023? We've been compiling some funny, fuss-free (and sometimes naughty but always family-friendly) Elf on the Shelf ideas in the lead up to Christmas Day.
What is Elf on the Shelf?
Beginning as a US children's book in 2005 by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell, the Elf on the Shelf phenomenon has gained popularity in the UK and across the world. In the run up to Christmas, the magical Scout Elves help Santa manage his naughty and nice lists by taking note of a family's Christmas adventures and reports back to Santa at the North Pole each night. Each morning, the Scout Elf returns to its family and perches in a new spot, waiting for someone to spot them.
This activity sees parents, grandparents, family members and guardians wake up extra early every morning (or at night after the kids have gone to bed) to place the Elf in a different area or room of the house, usually up to some sort of mischief. It's a firm favourite in many households as the nearly month-long event sees kids race around the house looking for their Scout Elf each morning.
It is, however, quite the commitment and can sometimes take a lot of preparation and creativity. As one parent wrote on Instagram: 'And just like that the dreaded Elf on the shelf is back... 25 days of torture and sudden runs out of bed in the cold mornings because "s**t I forgot to move the e**ing Elf.. Quick before the kids get up!!! #joysofparenting #christmas #elfontheshelf.'
Want to join in on the Elf on the Shelf tradition?
The Elf on the Shelf®: A Christmas Tradition is available at all good retailers across the UK, both in store and online (RRP: £24.95), including Amazon, John Lewis and The Range. It includes an adoptable Scout Elf with an official adoption certificate, a keepsake box and a beautiful, illustrated storybook.
You can buy Santa's official Scout Elf now in time for the festive season, then all that will be left is to name your Scout Elf. Plus, there's a range of elf clothing, accessories and props (some of which you'll see below) that can help to create fun new scenes and moments around the home. You can also buy a cuddly, plush toy version of Elf on the Shelf for extra elf magic.
There are a few rules for little ones to remember, too:
- Don't touch your Scout Elf or they will lose their magic!
- Scout Elves can't talk but are great listeners: children can share secrets and wishes with their Elf as often as they'd like.
- The busy Scout Elves must return to the North Pole on Christmas Eve to help Santa prepare for next Christmas.
Elf on the Shelf ideas
Another big part of the Elf on the Shelf tradition, and especially in the age of social media, is to share photos of the hilarious antics Scout Elves have been getting up to in the home. Plus, it gives families more genius Elf ideas because you have to get really creative.
While the first week of December will be a breeze, it can be a challenge keeping it up for the entire month. So take a look at these easy Elf on the Shelf ideas that you and your kids will love this Christmas.
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Elf on the Shelf on a scooter
Elf on the Shelf Stand-n-Scoot
What a great way to make an entrance into the home on arrival day for the countdown to Christmas. This kit includes a plastic scooter with moving wheels, Elf-sized safety helmet, and a festive striped scarf.
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Elf on the Shelf shop pop-up
Elf on the Shelf Insta-Moment Pop-Ups Series 2
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Elf on the Shelf shop pop-up
Elf on the Shelf Insta-Moment Pop-Ups Series 2
Create Insta-worthy moments with these pop-up scenes. Create three backdrops for the Scout Elves (accessories included) with a Drum Set, Spa Day and Doughnut Shop.
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Elf on the Shelf props
Scout Elves at Play Kit & Set
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Elf on the Shelf props
Scout Elves at Play Kit & Set
A worthwhile purchase, this kit contains 15 Elf props including a candy cane cable, glacier grips, Christmas climbing boots, holiday harness and more. It also comes with a 60-page book of ideas, which will set you up for the countdown to Christmas, and then some!
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Elf on the Shelf fireside pop-up
Scout Elves at Play Insta-Moment Pop-Ups
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Elf on the Shelf fireside pop-up
Scout Elves at Play Insta-Moment Pop-Ups
Another pop-up pack from the Elf on the Shelf creators. You get five scenes and themed accessories: Scout Elf Gamer, Christmas Car Ride, Scout Elf Salon, Scout Elf Beach Time & Christmas Campout. Simply pop it open and set it up!
Nurse your Elf on the Shelf back to good health. This care kit includes a snowflake printed blue patient gown, plastic crutches, an Elf-sized cast and six decorated elf bandages. Use a cardboard box as a makeshift bed and voilà!
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Standing Elf on the Shelf clothes
Elf on the Shelf Clothes - Claus Couture
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Standing Elf on the Shelf clothes
Elf on the Shelf Clothes - Claus Couture
Your little one's Scout Elf is getting a makeover this year. Made with standing technology, this special Magifreez design gives Scout Elves super-standing power to create elf scenes that rise above the rest!
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Elf on the Shelf reindeer
Elf on the Shelf Elf Pets Reindeer
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Elf on the Shelf reindeer
Elf on the Shelf Elf Pets Reindeer
If you're stuck for Elf on the Shelf ideas, why not pop your Scout Elf on the back of this adorable reindeer? Your little ones can adopt the reindeer for themselves with the included official adoption certificate.
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Elf on the Shelf activity pack
Elf On The Shelf Christmas Activity Pack
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Elf on the Shelf activity pack
Elf On The Shelf Christmas Activity Pack
Give the kids something to do in the lead up to Christmas with the Elf on the Shelf activity pack. Complete with crosswords, tracing, colouring, stickers and more, they'll be entertained (and quiet!) for hours.
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Tiny Elf on the Shelf
World's Smallest Elf on the Shelf Miniature Accessories
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Tiny Elf on the Shelf
World's Smallest Elf on the Shelf Miniature Accessories
Now 40% Off
If your children are too good at finding the pesky Scout Elf around the house, try hiding the world's smallest Elf on the Shelf. A tiny piece of magic that fits right in your hands, this Scout Elf would make a great stocking filler.
Note that this mini Elf is not suitable for children under three.
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Elf on the Shelf robe and slippers outfit
Elf on the Shelf Claus Couture Cosy Robe & Slippers
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Elf on the Shelf robe and slippers outfit
Elf on the Shelf Claus Couture Cosy Robe & Slippers
Scout Elf didn't have time to get changed this morning! Your little ones are sure to laugh when they see Elf on the Shelf with his robe and slippers on.
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Elf on the Shelf in the washing machine
A great hiding spot, collate dolls/toy figures for a pretend rollercoaster ride. Just ensure they're safely strapped in.
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Elf on the Shelf stealing chocolate
It could be a disaster if it all topples down, but there's no denying that this is a fun Elf on the Shelf idea.
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Elf on the Shelf having a bath
For an early morning bathroom surprise, fill the sink with cotton wool balls.
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Elf on the Shelf eating Nutella
This is a rather messy Elf on the Shelf idea, but kids will love it.
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Elf on the Shelf getting lost in the sofa
A sofa classic, scatter some loose coins for the kids to collect as a bonus.
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Elf on the Shelf shopping
Pretend that Elf is doing a spot of last-minute online Christmas shopping!
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Elf on the Shelf causing pure mischief
So, who's going to clean up this mess?
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Elf on the Shelf baking homemade potato chips
Make your Elf a dab hand in the kitchen – nothing beats handmade crisps.
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Elf on the Shelf doing art
Some mini easels and sugar cookies are all you need to pull off this sweet Elf on the Shelf idea.
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Elf on the Shelf building a house
Elf on the Shelf is quite the builder...
Olivia Heath
Executive Digital Editor, House Beautiful UK
Olivia Heath is the Executive Digital Editor at House Beautiful UK, covering tomorrow's biggest interior design trends and revealing the best tips, tricks and hacks to help you decorate your home like a pro. Week by week Olivia shares the most stylish high street buys to help you get the look for less and showcases the best makeovers (who doesn't love a before & after?), as well as the hottest and most unique properties on the market.
Laura Hill
Homes Ecommerce Editor, House Beautiful
Laura Hill is the Homes Ecommerce Editor for House Beautiful UK, covering the latest interior trends and home product ranges. With several years’ experience in home decor and DIY-focused editorial, Laura is an expert in finding the best tips and tricks to help you create a home you love on a budget.
