Chances are, if you’re reading this post about 8 Funny, EASY Elf on the Shelf Ideas, you’re already on #TeamElf. Nevertheless, this much is true: The Elf on the Shelf debate is a hot one. It can be a really fun & sweet way to bring the magic of Christmas into your home.
Some families are decidedly low-maintenance with their elf. In fact, just this morning, I read a post about a mom who left her elf in a fruit basket for the entire month of December. That’s fine, there is no shame! Just tell the kids that the elf got stuck and they will still laugh hysterically every morning when they wake up.
On the other side of this Elf on the Shelf commitment are the parents that really go all out. They have so much fun crafting detailed scenes that leave others envious of the life their elf leads! Elves returning from vacations, battles with GI Joes, handcrafted outfits and more. If this is you–then more power to you!
Personally, my strategy always lies on the side of low effort, high reward. These 8 Funny, EASY Elf on the Shelf Ideas are some of my favorite go-to’s.
Pin this post because next year, you will wish you did…and follow my Elf on the Shelf Pinterest Board for lots more elf ideas, no matter what your elf strategy is!
NOM, NOM, NOM!
It can be a banana, a marshmallow or a piece of candy. HECK… do all three on different days. I usually forget to move her until morning, so whatever we have around in arm’s reach becomes the perfect snack. And no matter what you use, don’t forget to take a little nibble! The little bite not only tastes good, but it also proves the realness of your Elf.
UM…CAN I GET A LITTLE HELP HERE?
Nothing is funnier to a toddler than an elf stuck in a jar. I have exactly 4 jars and I am quite sure, Beauty (our elf) will find her way into each one before Christmas. Sometimes she will be trapped and sometimes she will be escaping.
HUG IT OUT
If your house is anything like mine, there are stuffies, dolls, or “guys” (think Little People or GI Joes) littered about. Spread the love and let your elf give one of them a squeeze! Here is Beauty sharing a hug with a singing hamster.
OUT ON THE TOWN
Looking around I see lots of things our elf, Beauty, can ride into an adventure. These regal golden flamingos are a stark contrast to Beauty’s jolliness, and the kids can’t stop laughing. As far as simple ideas go, sitting atop home decor is ALMOST as simple as leaving your Elf where she is in the fruit bowl.
ZIPLINE TO THE NORTH POLE
Gotta get some upside down Elf on the Shelf because it’s easy and the kids like it. I just tied the chain lightly around the hands. Think upside down in a tree or hanging off a shelf or light fixture, as shown here. I just tied the chain lightly around the hands–easy!
**Check out more Christmas fun on the blog!**
OPEN THE DRAWER, SURPRISE!
This one cannot be any easier. It’s breakfast, and your kid is going to get a fork, but then bam! There she is just waiting to be found. Tempting to touch her, but I’m not convinced she will lose her magic with just one touch. Beauty is one resilient elf.
GET CRAFTY FOR SANTA
This is the most ambitious of the ideas here, but it still only took me one minute. Probably because I already had sitting out some craft paper and pens. Leave extra sheets nearby for impromptu coloring.
Yes, of course you can write a note or draw a huge scene, but there is no shame in keeping it simple either.
THE ELF DOOR IS OPEN
Lastly, I have to give a shout out to this simple idea I found on PopSugar’s Elf on the Shelf list of ideas. It was just too cute not to share. If you have a fairy door, check out the pin here. Any little miniatures make a fun set up!
STILL NOT EASY ENOUGH? GET AN ELF ON THE SHELF KIT!
If you really just need to phone this in, low-effort style, order this kit! Or add to the fun and get a new Elf–the more the merrier!
Just because I’ve only shared 8 funny, easy Elf on the Shelf ideas, doesn’t mean you still need to come up with a bunch more to get you through the season. Think of all the variations you can do with the suggestions here! And remember to just have fun!
2 comments
All fun! It’s hard to come up with new awesome ideas every night, esp. when you’re tired and have suddenly realized you forgot to move the Elf! Visiting from Inspire Me Monday party.
I agree. My kids get a kick out it even if I just move her a little and make up a cute story. Never set the bar too high. That’s my motto! hehe.