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, Outdoor, Water, Back to School, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

In this cheeky and clever Elf on the Shelf idea, Elf is using a S-ELF tanning kit to sun. This funny elf on the shelf printable uses orange foods – cheese balls & easy cheese. 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!

Did you know the North Pole is rather cold? I know, I know. Obvious question. However, while many understand they North Pole is rather cold, they don’t always recognize that elves love the sun. Visiting their host family during the holiday season is a great time to de-thaw, take an elf beach vacation, or pull out the fake and bake.

If you are looking to give your Elf on the Shelf beach props, consider this funny s-ELF tanning kit. Add a desk lamp and some sun shades (Barbie sunglasses are great for this) and you are all set to complete this quick and easy Elf on the Shelf idea.

Punny Elf on the Shelf Self Tanning Kit

No, we didn’t misspell funny. This cheeky Elf on the Shelf idea is rather punny and plays on the phrase self tanning kit. Instead of tanning spray, we use cheese whiz and cheese balls for the best orange tan ever!

Pun: a joke exploiting the different possible meanings of a word or the fact that there are words which sound alike but have different meanings.

Supplies

Who doesn’t love a few Elf on the Shelf props you can eat later? If you’re a faux cheese eater (wink – wink), this adorable Elf idea is for you. Gather the following supplies for your witty Elf on the Shelf Idea.

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Towel
• Beach Props
• Cheese Balls (we use Utz Cheese Balls)
• Canned Cheese Spray  (we used Kraft Easy Cheese)
• Self Tanning Kit Printable Set (see below)
• Printer paper
• Printer
• Scissors
• Tape or Glue

Directions

It’s time to pull this Hilarious Elf on the Shelf Idea into motion. First you will need to download your funny Self Tanning Kit printable.

Once you complete your purchase and download your PDF file, print it from your home computer or (print at Staples.) For reference, I printed mine from my home computer and they still gave me though bright, eye-catching pops of color.

Next, cut out your labels. Use a glue stick or double-sided tape to attach the labels to your canned cheese spray and container of cheese balls. I actually wrapped the labels around both cheese products and tabled them on the back side of the item.

Stage your Elf in a fun relaxing position on a beach towel.

Extend this Funny Elf Idea

You can always go a step further than we did with this fun Elf idea. Using the tanning kit, incorporate some of these other easy and fun Elf on the shelf ideas.

• Are you going on vacation? Elf can travel with you. Maybe he can bring a fun beach basket filled with things for the trip.
• Use this idea with our fun beach backdrop for Elf. You can add sandbox sand and some shells for a fun scene.
• Put Elf under a heat lamp, like a tanning bed. This can be done with a desk lamp.
• Add some Barbie and Ken Beach Clothes for Elf props. I used a surf vest from my 1980s Barbie accessories.

What are some other orange foods I can use?

Of course if cheese in a can or small snowballs of cheese are not your thing, try some of these other orange foods to pull off your funny Elf idea. You will need to get clever for how your use the s-ELF tanning kit labels on these items, but it’s still do-able.

Orange foods include…

• Pumpkin
• Oranges
• Sweet Potatoes
• Carrots
• Cantaloupes
• Mangos
• Peaches
• Cheese Chips

Elf Tanning Printables

Grab this funny Elf Tanning Kit Printable. This silly idea comes with two labels. The first is a “self tanning kit” label for cheese balls. The second is a “self tanning lotion” for cheese spray.  These are digital downloads. You will download to your computer and print from your printer.

In addition to this funny Self Tanning kit, you can find the 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 Self Tanning Printables + 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!

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 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, Outdoor, Water, Back to School, 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, Outdoor, Water, Back to School, 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, Outdoor, Water, Back to School, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Interested in an Elf on the Shelf Theme for the entire visit of your North Pole Friend? How about a game night? Follow these Elf on the Shelf Ideas with Games including Twister, Memory, Bowling, Connect Four and Even Sledding & Climbing (aka Chutes & Ladders!) New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas with Games

We are back, so is the the red little guy. If you have been with us a long time, you know we have brought you a new Elf on a 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 fun Elf on a 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 on the Shelf Ideas with Games

My idea was to give you a round-up of Scout Elf on the Shelf Themed Ideas. Take a look at a few of our ideas…

• Elf on the Shelf Ideas with Candy Canes
• Elf on the Shelf Ideas with Toilet Paper
• Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Two Elves

Next up, we wanted to share with you Elf on a Shelf Ideas with Games. This elf themed idea gives your Elf a focus and keeps your Elf on the Shelf ideas easy during the holiday season.

Elf on the Shelf Supplies Needed

• The Elf on the Shelf
• Assorted Games & Game Pieces

Elf on the Shelf Games & Shenanigans

For a list of the best elf games, look no further. Find a fun idea for every game lover. Ideas for a girl elf, boy elf, and multiple elves. You can use these funny elf ideas for kiddos of all ages including preschoolers, young kids, and pre-teens.

Elf on the Shelf Twister Game with Spinner

Elf on the Shelf Sledding & Climbing Board with Spinner – Chutes & Ladders Board Game

Elf on the Shelf Tic Tac Toe Game

Elf on the Shelf Scavenger Hunt

Mini Board Games Print and Play for Elf

Elf on the Shelf Hide the Candy Canes Game

Elf on the Shelf Connect 4 Game

Elf on the Shelf Matching Game

Elf on the Shelf Basketball Game with Printable Scoreboard

Elf on the Shelf Bowling Game

Elf on the Shelf Bowling Game with Purchase

Elf on the Shelf Foosball Game

Elf on the Shelf Poker Game

Elf on the Shelf Pie Face Game

Elf on the Shelf Operation Game

Elf on the Shelf Go Fish Game

Elf on the Shelf Golf Game

More easy Elf ideas include puzzles, a card game, Elf Toys and educational games.

Elf on the Shelf Games App

Want more Elf? In addition to Elf on the Shelf games ideas in your home, you can also play the Elf on the Shelf Video Games in an app or on the PC. If you love the Elf Brand, look at some of the games they sell online including the popular Elf on the Shelf Hide & Seek game. Kids will love Elf on the Shelf apps in a virtual setting.

• Elf on the Shelf Games App

• Elf Games PC in Santa’s North Pole

• Elf on the Shelf Hide and Seek Game

• Where’s the Elf on the Shelf Game

• Elf on the Shelf Make a Match Memory Game

Elf on the Shelf Games & Printables

Want some game printables? Our most popular Elf on the Shelf printables can be found in our Elf Store. Shop an Elf Doctor Note, Advent Calendar Twister Board Game, Elf Sledding & Climbing Game, the Elf Art Masterpeice and so much more!

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables including these Elf on the Shelf Inspired Games. Purchase it in our Elf Kit Bundles. These are  a fun way to busy kids in a group setting, youth group or at a Christmas party. Alternatively, paly among your family!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

Our goal at Frugal Coupon Living is to create a Happy Mom. Not ready to buy? 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. One you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

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 a 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.

New Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Need a summary of Elf on the Shelf. We can help. Don’t forget all of our daily Elf on the Shelf Ideas. See all of our resources from the beginning to the end. Pin to Pinterest on your Christmas and Elf Boards.

Never loose a new Elf. See our Elf on the Shelf Master List. This includes every Elfie Idea we have ever done. And there are alot! Pin to Pinterest.

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

It’s a catastrophe! In the case of emergency, use this Elf emergency guide for multiple ideas and solutions for what to do if Elf on the Shelf is touched by a child, pet or adult! Fun antics and easy 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!

Have questions about if and when you can touch the Elf on the Shelf? We have your answers.

The Elf on the Shelf cliff notes include…

1. No. You can not touch the Elf on the Shelf.
2. Parents, you can not touch the Elf either.
3. When touched, Elf looses magic.
4. You can touch the Elf on Christmas Eve.
5. There are plenty of ideas for a touched Elf on the Shelf.

Read on for all of your questions thoroughly answered.

Can you touch Elf on the Shelf?

No. The answer is no. No you cannot touch the Elf on the Shelf. No.

The Elf on the Shelf requires magic to return home to the North Pole each evening. Because human touch causes magic lost, you cannot touch the Elf on the Shelf. It is important to share this Elf Rule with your child immediately upon Elf adoption. If it is Christmas Eve, you can touch the Elf on the Shelf on the last night. Because Santa brings Elf on the Shelf home on Christmas Eve, Elf does not need magic this evening to return to the North Pole. He/She will get a ride on Santa’s sleigh.

Can parents touch the Elf on the Shelf?

Let’s get this straight. Parents, you may not touch the Elf on the Shelf. Got that? The same important rule applies to you. In the event of an emergency, Elf can be touched with Magic Grippers. You can find these in your home (or something similar.) Just tie the magic gripper tag printable to your kitchen tongs aka Magic Grippers and you are all set for emergency situations.

What to do if your Elf on the Shelf is Touched

First, take a deep breath. Don’t worry. It’s good you are here.

What happens if you touch an Elf on the Shelf?

If you touch an Elf on the Shelf, the magic is lost. Elf cannot return to the North Pole in the evenings without magic. This keeps Elf from reporting to Santa if you have been naughty or nice. If you have bene naughty, touching Elf doesn’t keep Santa from finding out. Santa knows that evening that your family elf did not return to the North Pole and sends Elf help. This can be an Elf doctor, a special Elf friend, or a magical signal sent to your Elf.

Take a look at these solutions for when Elf on the Shelf is touched. Make some assessments before solution is determined for your Scout Elf doll.

1. Was Elf touched by accident?
2. Was Elf touched on purpose?

If Elf on the Shelf was touched by accident, quickly grab the Elf grippers and save Elf from being in an uncomfortable or harmful situation.

If Elf was touched on purpose, there are solutions for Elf being touched. Elf can sit for an extra day, Elf can return to your home sick, Elf can get magic back with a sprinkle of pixie dust.

Take a look at these Elf on the Shelf ideas for being touched.

Elf on the Shelf Ideas After Being Touched

These are some quick easy and practical ideas for when Elf on the Shelf is touched.

Write Elf an Apology Note

Writing Elf or Santa an apology note express you are sorry and you have learned your lesson. You can use one of these Elf on the Shelf letter templates.

Sprinkle Magic

Offer Elf some pixie dust. Use a little cinnamon or colored glitter to quickly bring magic back to your Elf. This magic elf dust will get Elf back to the North Pole for the night so Santa and the Elf doctors can assess their needs with a quick check-up.

Sing Loud for All to Hear

The best way to spread Christmas cheer is to sing loud fo rall to hear. Sing a Christmas Carol or too give bring Christmas cheer back to your Elf.

Elftastrophe Book

Need an Elf emergency guide? Read children’s book, In Case of Elftastrophe book. It’s full of your answers for touching the official Elf and North Pole solutions.

Perform an Act of Kindness

Kindness can be the most effective way to bring elf’s magic back. Perform a good deed with a RAK. You can use these Kindness Elves ideas. Doing good for others is sure to keep you off the naughty list.

Put Elf on the Christmas Tree

Did you know the Christmas tree has amazing unseen magic? Use your Elf movers and move Elf to the Christmas tree for a magical repair. He will be like new the next morning.

Printable Elf on the Shelf Ideas after being touched

Want printable resources? These are helpful Elf on the Shelf printables for when Elf is touched.

Magic Grippers

These free printable magic grippers help you move Elf after fall or touch. Grippers can be used to move the Elf off the ground, to the Christmas tree, or to a safe location.

Elf on Strike

Sometimes when Elf is touched, Elf on the Shelf goes on strike. This sign reads “On strike!” and can be used after Elf is touched. In this case, Elf would sit in one spot for a day or two. This is enough time for Elf’s magic to return.

Elf Prescription Note

Sometimes Elf is sick. This can especially be true when magic is lost. This Elf prescription note sits Elf out for a day day for being touched. After a quick check-up by the Elf doctors, Elf returns the next morning with a doctor’s note that reads “Magic Lost: No moving for one day. Don’t touch elf!”

Helpful Elf on the Shelf Resources

Take a look at these helpful resources for Elf on the Shelf.

• What to do if the Dog Eats Elf on the Shelf – Sometimes the Elf is touched by something other than human children… I am looking at you four legged furry creature. If the dog or cat has gotten the Elf on the Shelf, take a look at these Elf pet ideas for solutions for rambunctious pets.
• 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.
• Elf on the Shelf Meaning Explained – Why this red elf? Take a look at reasons for Elf on the Shelf as well as a description of what an Elf on the Shelf is.
• Elf on the Shelf Rules – Print these free printable Elf on the Shelf rules including “do not touch the elf!”
• Reasons Why the Elf Didn’t Move – Don’t let your forgetful head cause a lot of drama in the morning. Forgetful parents can tuck a few of these reasons the Elf on the Shelf didn’t move in your backpocket.

More 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 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.

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 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.
• 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 our Elf on the Shelf Facebook Group (turn on notifications) and 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, Outdoor, Water, Back to School, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.

Looking to purchase the Elf on the Shelf Book Only? Rarely in circulation, grab the The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition Book by Carol V. Aebersold and Chanda A Bell. New creative, funny, and original Elf on the Shelf Ideas daily.

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Elf on the Shelf Book Only

It was a bit surprising for me to see the The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition Book only without the Elf on the Shelf doll and box. In fact, we know the Official Elf on the Shelf doll comes with the book and box, never alone and never in a color other than red!

What is the Elf on the Shelf Book About?

The plot of the Elf on the Shelf book describes how Santa’s “scout elves” visit homes and watch over day to day happenings. The red elves leave to visit the North Pole every night and then go back to their assigned home each morning. By hiding in a new spot each morning, the scout elf plays an ongoing game of hide and seek with the family.

In order to get their magic, The Elf on the Shelf explains that scout elves get their magic by being named and being loved by a child. In the back of each book, families have an opportunity to write their elf’s name and the date that they adopted it. Once the elf is named, the scout elf receives its special Christmas magic, which allows it to fly to and from the North Pole.

But careful. Elf’s magic might disappear if the North Pole elf visitor is touched. So only one Elf on the Shelf rule must be followed – do not touch Elf. The story ends on Christmas Day with the Elf on the Shelf leaving to stay with Santa for the rest of the year until the following Christmas season.

Where can I buy the Elf on the Shelf Book?

The Elf on the Shelf book is not sold individually. The Elf book comes with your Scout Elf doll, however there are alternatives to buying the Elf on the Shelf Book online.

• Buy the Elf on the Shelf Book Used
• Borrow the Elf on the Book from a Friend
• Check out the Elf on the Shelf Book from a Library
• Get the Miniature Elf on the Shelf Book
• Use some of the other Elf brand books

What are other Elf on the Shelf Books?

As the Elf on the Shelf brand has expanded, so has their book collection too. The Lumistella company and Author by Chanda Bell have released new Pets and Elves at Play books so you can read more about Scout Elf and his/her adventures.

If you are looking for more Scout Elf on the Shelf collection of books, try some of these fun Elf books to read with the kids.

• In the Case of Elftastrophe An Elf Emergency Guide for Being Touched.
• Elf on the Shelf’s A Night Before Christmas Book
• Elf Pets: An Artic Fox Tradition Book
• Elf Pets: A Reindeer Tradition Book
• Elf Pets: A St. Bernard Tradition
• An Elf Story Book with Sound (used)
• Elf on the Shelf Coloring and Activity Book Set

How to Catch an Elf is another precious Christmas book if  your child loves books about Elves.

Miniature Elf on the Shelf Book

You can get an Elf on the Shelf mini book printable  for both your child and Elf to have their very one elf!

Update: this Elf on the Shelf Book PDF free from Fabyuleus Elf Duo is no longer available, find a similar printable Elf on the Self box kit.

You can also grab a Free Miniature Elf on the Shelf Printable Story Book only on ElfontheShelf.com. Print your Elf on the Shelf Book PDF free and cut and gift to your miniature Elf doll.

Also purchase a miniature Elf on the Shelf Book. This is a plastic mini Elf on the Shelf book version and comes with a cute inflatable chair and buffalo plaid blanket.

Elf on the Shelf Doll Only

Like I shared above. It is rare for you to find a book to purchase alone. The same is true of finding an Elf on the Shelf doll only.

When you buy Elf on the shelf, there are some important features to look for. The Original Elf on the Shelf dolls come with a red Elf, a box, and a book. There are Imposter Elf on the Shelf Ideas everywhere, but the real Scout Elf will have a book and a box.

One official Elf doll you can get alone is the World’s Smallest Elf on the Shelf doll. We have some cute miniature Elf on the Shelf Ideas in our Master list.

Now you can also buy Elf on the Shelf dolls with different genders and ethnicities. See where to buy a Black Elf on the Shelf doll.

Unboxing Elf on the Shelf

You can see  a quick video of us Unboxing the Elf on the Shelf. Our set came with both the Elf on the Shelf book, doll, box and a gingerbread costume and house!

See some of the best Elf on the Shelf sales on our Elf on the Shelf Black Friday post including where to buy and when.

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 DownloadsWe 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. One you confirm, look for a second email in your inbox with a link and password!

Free Printables Step by Step Directions

1.) Enter your email address here.

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

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, Outdoor, Water, Back to School, and more! Use these fun activities in the office, classroom, or at your next birthday party.