Type your child's name and your elf's name, then press Print. The goodbye letter thanks your child for a great season, names the kind things the elf noticed and promises to come back next year. It prints on one US Letter page.
Until Next Year
Dear Your Child,
Tonight is my last night with you, and my heart is very full. I'm flying home before morning to help with the biggest night of the year.
I saw so many good things this season: helping when nobody asked, sharing even when it was tricky, and lots of laughing. Those are the moments I'll tell everyone about.
While I'm away, keep being kind, keep being curious, and keep a little holiday cheer for the rest of the year. I'll be back before you know it.
Merry Christmas, and thank you for the best season.
With love,
Your Elf
Goodbye ideas for Christmas Eve
See You Next Year Calendar
Circle next year's arrival day on a calendar and set the elf beside it pointing at the date. Add a doodle of a smiling face in the box.
1 minHousehold itemsNo messAll ages
You'll need: calendar, marker
Christmas Eve Sleep Mask
Leave the elf on Christmas Eve with a folded-paper sleep mask and a note: 'Go to sleep fast tonight. Big things are coming.'
1 minHousehold itemsNo messAll ages
You'll need: paper, pen
Packed and Ready
Set the elf on top of a tiny packed bag with a note: 'Tonight I fly home. Thank you for the best season.' Add a list of three favorite memories from the month.
5 minHousehold itemsNo messAll ages
You'll need: small bag, paper and pen
Elf Report Card
Write a playful report card from the elf grading the family on things like 'Kindness: A+' and 'Teeth brushing: needs a little work'. Sign it with a scribbled star.
5 minHousehold itemsNo messAges 4+
You'll need: paper, pen
Goodbye Hug Line
Line up the family's stuffed animals in a row facing the elf like they are waiting to say goodbye. Leave a note asking the kids to give each one a hug for the elf.
5 minHousehold itemsNo messAges 2–4
You'll need: stuffed animals, paper and pen
Memory Jar
Place a clean jar next to the elf with slips of paper and a note asking each person to write a favorite moment of the season. Read them together at dinner.
