Merrimove Elf ideas

Printable elf arrival letter

Type your child's name and your elf's name below, then press Print. The letter introduces the elf, explains three simple rules and counts the nights until Christmas Eve. It prints on one US Letter page.

I'm Here!

Dear Your Child,

Guess who just landed? It's me, Your Elf! The trip from the far north was long and chilly, but the moment I saw your house I knew it was the right place to spend the season.

Every night while you sleep, I'll fly home to report on all the good things I've seen. Then I'll come back and land somewhere new, so keep your eyes open each morning.

Here are my three rules: please don't touch me (my sparkle wears off), talk to me any time (I'm a great listener), and be kind to everyone, especially when it's hard.

We have 24 nights together. I can't wait to see what this season brings.

Your friend,

Your Elf

Arrival ideas to go with the letter

  1. Front Door Knock

    Place the elf right inside the front door with one arm raised like it is knocking. Leave a scrap of paper 'doormat' that reads 'Wipe your feet!'

    1 minHousehold itemsNo messAll ages

    You'll need: paper, pen

  2. Sleepy Traveler

    Tuck the elf into a folded dish towel or sock 'sleeping bag' on the couch. Jet lag is real, even for elves.

    1 minHousehold itemsNo messAges 2–4

    You'll need: dish towel or clean sock

  3. Name Tag Hello

    Stick a 'Hello, my name is' label made from tape and paper on the elf. Kids get to remember (or vote on) the name over breakfast.

    1 minHousehold itemsNo messAges 2–4

    You'll need: paper, tape, pen

  4. Arrival by Parachute

    Tie four strings from a plastic grocery bag to the elf's arms and hang it from a light fixture or curtain rod. It looks like it floated down the chimney and got stuck halfway.

    5 minHousehold itemsNo messAll ages

    You'll need: plastic grocery bag, string or yarn

  5. House Rules Poster

    Write a short list of 'Elf House Rules' (no touching, kindness counts, bedtime by eight) and tape it to the fridge with the elf perched on top. It's a gentle way to set expectations for the season.

    5 minHousehold itemsNo messAll ages

    You'll need: paper, pen, tape

  6. Mailbox Delivery

    Put the elf inside a shoebox 'mailbox' or an envelope with the kids' names on the front, marked 'Special Delivery'. Kids open it to find their visitor.

    5 minHousehold itemsNo messAges 2–4

    You'll need: shoebox or large envelope, marker