If you’re looking for some fun, lighthearted holiday entertainment, an old-fashioned Christmas carol may not be the way to go this year. Instead, Elf yourself with the app and free printable Elf Template in light and dark skin paper elves. Enjoy 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!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year and we all know that this Christmas season is a great time for a new family holiday tradition. From baking cookies for Santa, making a birthday cake for Jesus, or welcoming a family elf there are many ways you can create fun activities in the home.

Of course if you are an Elf on the Shelf fan, you are going to want to catch elf moving! Make your own JibJab Christmas ecard, create a fun paper Christmas craft Elf doll, use a stop motion app to catch your family elf moving within your home, or make your own viral ElfYourself video.

ElfYourself App

Let’s talk about the Elf Yourself Phone all. Spread holiday cheer with a fun ElfYourself App. Get ready for belly laughs when you transform your family into dancing elf dolls.

What is ElfYourself?

ElfYourself is a popular app of the holiday season. Rated E for everyone, it is available on both Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Since 2006, this Office Depot original has created over 2 billion customized elves. It features dancing elves featuring many dance styles. Upload photos of you, your family or even your furry friends. Up to five elves can be added this this adorable dancing elves video.

How much does ElfYourself App cost?

It is free to download the ElfYourself app. And I promise this free holiday app is worth it.

If you want to customize your elf dances, you will pay. There are a number of in-app purchases available which are all different types of dances/themes. You can share your Christmas movie card for free, download for $7.99 or get a season pass for $5.00

How to make an ElfYourself Video

The interface is very user friendly.  Download this app to tablets, android devices or your Apoole IOS platform. Once you download the Elf Yourself App, it’s easy to create your family ElfYourself video.

Visitors upload faces of themselves or their friends and have the option to post the created video to other sites or save it as a personalized mini-film.

To get started…

1.) Upload an image of yourself using Facebook photos, your camera roll, by taking a photo, using chosen faces or connecting Instagram.

2.) Line up the mouth and position the face to center it in the elf face frame. Pinch to zoom, turn to rotate or drag to move.

3.) Choose up to 4 more Elf faces of friends, family members and/or pets.

4.) Add a personalized greeting.

5.) Choose your favorite dance style from dozens of fun holiday videos.

6.) Watch your dancing little elves star in adorable elf movies.

Let’s see your amazing dancing skills. Happy Elfing!

Elf Yourself Template

Of course have fun making your own dancing paper elf craft with a little bit of creativity. With this fun printable Christmas craft, you can Elf yourself for free!

The whole family will enjoy this cutest coloring activity and holiday craft. You could even have your Elf on the Shelf bring the supplies.

Supplies

It’s very easy to gather your Christmas Elf craft supplies. In fact, you likely have everything you need already.

• Free Elf Template Printable PDF Download (see below)
• Brads Fasteners or glue stick
• White cardstock or printer paper
• Printer
• Scissors
• Glue
• Optional: Crayons, colored pencils or markers
• Optional: The Elf on the Shelf Doll

Note: If you want a moveable dancing paper elf, use the brads fasteners available here. These will help you show off your dance moves and elf yourself with your own Christmas elf craft.

How do I make a paper elf?

First, download and print your paper elf templates. You can choose the white elf, black elf, or color an Elf to personalize your activity.

Once your paper elf template is printed (on white paper cardstock or printer paper), cut out the pieces of your Elf. Cut out the illustrations including the elf hat, arms, legs, body, head, Christmas gift box and holly. Lay your cuts aside.

Choose if you will use brads for a moveable paper elf doll or glue for a stationary Elf on the Shelf. If using brads, use scissors to poke a small hole in the shoulders and hips of your paper elves. If using glue, start gluing all the parts together.

Viola! You built your own happy Elf doll. Hang on your Christmas tree as an ornament or put on your kids’ art wall for a fun way to to display holiday flare.

Tip: You can also use the black and white printable page as cute Elf on the Shelf coloring pages. An Elf on a Shelf idea is to have your Santa’s helpers bring a cute Elf on the Shelf coloring page on one of their daily visits.

What are some elf yourself alternatives?

While Elf yourself is an amazing platform and app that will bring a lot of holiday humor to your family, you might be looking for something a little bit within the budget… like maybe something free?!

Take a look at these alterative ideas to ElfYourself…

• Elf on the Shelf Tracker – use the stop motion app and track your Elf in your home
• Printable Elf Template – download and print our printable Elf template in the free elf on the shelf printables library. Instead of using the provided elf’s head, use Shutterfly (or another photo resource) and out out the heads of your family. Have fun creating your own elf yourself template with your family’s faces.
• Elf Crafts – Fun ideas from elf coloring pages to a paper elf puppet template, take a look at these fun Christmas crafts. Get into the Christmas spired with these cute & inspired Elf on the shelf craft ideas.
• JibJab– create holiday ecards by uploading photos of your family and friends.

Ready to download your own printable elf template? See below and have so much fun making your own Elf on the Shelf simple craft.

Printable Elf Template Cut & Play

Build your own elf with a free printable elf yourself template. This printable Christmas Craft comes in three different styles

• Elf printable coloring page you can personalize
• Dark skinned Elf template
• Light skinned Elf template

Young children will get into the holiday spirit with this easy idea you can do today!

>>Download the Free Elf Printable Template Set<<

Free Elf Printables

This freebie is found in our free Elf on the Shelf 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!

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.

More Printable Elf Props

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

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.

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!

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.

Who knew oranges could create such funny Elf on the Shelf ideas. These emoji oranges are a quick and easy Elf idea! 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

Is there an Elf Emoji?

Unfortunately Elf on the Shelf doesn’t have an emoji. You can grab a Santa🎅, Christmas Tree🎄, Present 🎁 and other festive holiday emojis, but if you want an Elf emoji, you are going to get something green with point ears that looks like a cross of Zelda and Robbin Hood in a variety of shades and wearing a green or blue top. 🧝🧝🏻🧝🏽🧝🏾🧝‍♂️🧝🏻‍♂️🧝🏿‍♂️

Elf Orange Emoji

If you came here looking to copy and past the orange emoji, here it is 🍊

But really most of you landing on this page for this adorable Elf on the Shelf idea with Emoji Oranges. Such a simple Elf idea and so cute for your kids.

Elf on the Shelf Supplies Needed

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Oranges
• Sharpie Markers

For this simple Elf on the Shelf emoji ideas with oranges, grab your Sharpie marker and open the emojis in your phone. Use your permanent markers to make adorable emoji faces. Lay your oranges with artwork around your Elf for a cute Elf on the Shelf idea.

It’s so easy your kids can do it (… and I know, because my older kids DID do it!)

Stay in the Emoji Fruit Theme!

Also look at our Elf on the Shelf Emoji Idea and Elf on the Shelf Fruit Ideas!

Elf on the Shelf Emoji Idea

For another cute Elf on the Shelf Emoji idea, grab your child’s emoji resources and also cut some tiny emoji heart eyes. It fits the theme to keep the emoji Elf idea going.

Elf on the Shelf Fruit Ideas

This is one of our original Elf on the Shelf ideas – can you tell from the age of the doll? It is a classic elf doll. Anyhoo, use one of those left over oranges and insert a fun straw. Orange juice anyone? We love this elf drinks an orange Elf on the Shelf orange idea.

For more Christian Elf on the Shelf ideas, print our free Fruits of the Spirit Elf on the Shelf Notes. It’s a cool way to stay in the spirit of the season, remember the birth of Jesus.

Full disclosure. Most of my fruit was rotten so I though it was very applicable to say “in a world full of rotten fruit, be a fruit of the spirit!”

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 including our Elf on the Shelf Fruits of the Spirit!

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.

This Christmas season encourage your child with these 24 Christian Letter Board, advent calendar Bible verses and Jesus inspired printables. Use with your Elf on the Shelf or Christian Elf alternative 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!

If you believe Jesus Christ is the reason for the season, then these Christian ideas for Elf on the Shelf for you. Download and print our encouraging Christian Letter Boards with sweet messages your North Pole visitor can deliver daily. Alternatively, use a few of the Christian alternatives for Elf on the Shelf and spread the sweet message of Christmas and the the story of the birth of Christ.

Is there a Christian version of Elf on the Shelf?

Does your child enjoy the idea of having an Elf on the Shelf daily? Does this cause you anxiety or would you like to make sure with the arrival of Elf (or another character) you are still sharing the story of Jesus? Whatever your concern, we have a few Christian ideas for Elf on the Shelf.

First, let’s talk about the daily visitor. Is Elf on the Shelf necessary? Actually no. Your child can enjoy the idea of a daily visitor without use a red elf or Santa.

Take a look at these Christian alternatives to Elf on the Shelf.

Shepherd on the Search

Likely the most popular alternative to Elf on a Shelf is Shepherd on a Search. In the theme of the first Christmas, this activity set can relocate Shepherd in a new location daily. This little Shepherd boy goes on a daily ADVENTures and counts down the days until Christmas day as he searches for baby Jesus. The set comes with a plush Shepherd , beautiful Christmas book and box that can be used as a nativity. You can purchase the addition of a little lamb or camel pet. Read the story of the shepherd’s timeless journey and discover the joy of finding Christ in CHRISTmas.

Star from Afar

Star from Afar is an advent calendar and playset. This set comes with a book and 13 piece wooden nativity set. Similar to the hide and seek of Elf on the Shelf, the star will be hidden in a new spot each day. Your children will look for the star and then move all three wise men to its location. This will have the 3 wise men following the star of Bethlehem.  On Christmas Eve, place the star on the top of the nativity stable and on Christmas morning, the three wise men reach the nativity scene and find their king, baby Jesus!

Wise Men Journey

The Wise Men Journey is a Biblical Christmas devotional. Go on a journey with the three wise men as they search for Baby Jesus. Similar to a 25-day advent calendar, enjoy reading a Christmas devotional storybook that daily reveals the authentic Christmas story. Follow three wooden Wise Men and hang 25 wooden ornaments daily on your Christmas tree. Your family will go on a Christmas adventure and celebrate the first Christmas in a whole new way!

Other Christian Elf on the Shelf Alternatives

Also take a look at The Giving Manger and What God Wants for Christmas (buy used, no longer in production). Both are great ways to tell the story of the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem to your kiddos.

Easy Elf on the Shelf Christian Message for Letter Boards

If you already have a family Elf take a look at these cute ideas for spreading the message of Christmas. This cute printable set of Christian Elf letterboards drops the mischief. It ignores the messes. Instead your elf is on the assignment to instead brings encouragement and examples of good behavior.

Download these 24 Easy Elf prop printables that share the true meaning of Christmas through faith-based daily Elf on the Shelf ideas.

Supplies

• The Elf on the Shelf Doll
• Printer
• Cardstock or Printer Paper (I like Astrobrights white card stock – it’s lasted me for years)
• Scissors

Instructions

First, download the Christmas Message Letter Boards (see below.) Once your purchase is downloaded to your computer, print from your computer at home (or your local print shop.)

Cut apart your Elf letter board props. You will have a total of twenty-four letter boards. You can start Elf in the first day of December or use these with some of the other printable Christian Elf props below for a total of all the days from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve.

Deliver one printable letter board each day or bring them all at once.

Printable Christmas Letter Board Ideas for Elf

Download and print your printable Christian letter boards for your Elf. Elf can bring each of these daily or all at once. You can create a few letter boards into something fun.

For example, use the “Jesus is my rock and that’s how I roll” message and pair Elf playing canned drums or a guitar.

You can also use the “If the stars are made to worship, so will I” message and turn Elf into an astronaut.

Christian Quotes for Letter Boards Include:

• Wise men still seek Him
• You are a child of God
• Choose Joy
• The true spirt of Christmas lives in your heart
• He is a way maker
• Worry ends when faith begins
• “Trust the Lord with all your heart” Proverbs 3:5
• Love thy neighbor
• Oh come let us adore him Christ the Lord
• “Love is patient. Love is kind.” 1 Corinthians 13:4

… and more!

This Christmas Letter Board printables for Elf include 24 messages to use daily from December 1 until Christmas morning.

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 Christian-Inspired Letter Board Printables

More ways Christians can use Elf on the Shelf

You can go the entire Elf on the Shelf season with only faith-based Elf the Shelf ideas. Skip the naughty behavior and spread the message of the reason for the season. All of these Christian Elf on the Shelf ideas include Elf on the Shelf printables with Biblical messages straight about Jesus, God and the Holy Spirit.

Fruits of the Spirit

In a world full of rotten fruit, be a fruit of the spirit. The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faitfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Download these cute Elf on the Shelf Fruit of the Spirit cards and pair as as cute El idea with fruit.

Nativity Scene

Next place your Scout Elf in front of a nativity scene. Download this Isaiah 9:6 Bible Verse Printable and share this Elf on the Shelf bible verse “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.”

Random Acts of Kindness

The whole elf thing can spread good cheer too via RAKs. Create Kindness Elves with 25 kindness cards, a random act of kindness checklist and blank Elf notes for you to personalize fill out on your own ideas.

Turn your random acts of kindness into a family activity. Also download this free Elf on the Shelf give a hand day. This can look like volunteering, a soup kitchen, or RAK random acts of kindness day ideas.

Advent Calendar Bible Verses

Advent cards are a fun way to tell the story of Jesus’ birth and resurrection. These easy to read Elf on the Shelf Bible Verses for kids can be used with your little elves, Shepherd boy or three wise men. This set includes 24 Christmas scripture cards to use during the advent season. Start on December 1st and countdown the days until Christmas. Pair these daily advent activities with candy, a small treat or toys.

Can these be used for Shepherd on the Search Ideas?

Yes, you do not need an Elf on the Shelf to share the true meaning of Christmas with your child. Use all of these good messages and turn them in to Shepherd on a Search ideas or use any of the above Elf on the Shelf Christian alternatives to share the Christmas story. The greatest gift you can give your child in the month of December is the story of our savior. Do this however you see fit, with whichever character or delivery method you desire.

Free Elf on the Shelf Printables

We also love sharing Elf on the Shelf free printables! This includes Bible verses, Elf notes, and more.

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!

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.

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.

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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.