Elf ideas with what you have at home
Tick the things in your house and the list shows only ideas you can set up right now, quickest first. With paper, a cup and a towel you already have 118 of the 190 ideas; 20 need nothing at all.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Runs in your browser, nothing is saved
Backpack Check
Seat the elf on the backpack with a checklist: lunch, water bottle, library book, a smile. It's a helpful reminder dressed up as fun.
You'll need: paper and pen
Banana Phone
Prop a banana against the elf's ear like a phone. Leave a sticky note that says 'Hold please, it's the North Pole.'
You'll need: banana, sticky note
Big Hug From a Bear
Tuck the elf into the arms of the biggest stuffed animal in the house. It's a cozy morning cuddle.
You'll need: large stuffed animal
Draw a Card for Grandparents
Leave crayons and folded paper with the elf and a note: 'Let's make a card for Grandma and Grandpa today.' Mail it together.
You'll need: paper, crayons
Fridge Raid
Place the elf inside the fridge door with the butter or a cheese stick in its arms. Kids find it when they reach for the milk.
You'll need: butter or cheese stick
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!'
You'll need: paper, pen
Handwritten Joke
Leave a scrap of paper with one silly joke, like 'What do elves learn in school? The elf-abet.' The elf sits beside it looking proud.
You'll need: paper and pen
Hide and Seek Champion
Hide the elf somewhere a little trickier than usual, like inside a lampshade or behind a picture frame. Give the kids one clue at breakfast if they're stuck.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Homework Helper
Set the elf at the homework spot with a sharpened pencil and a sticky note that says 'You've got this!' A small boost before a busy day.
You'll need: pencil, sticky note
Kindness Challenge Card
Leave a card asking the kids to do one kind thing today, like holding a door or helping clear the table. Tomorrow the elf asks how it went.
You'll need: paper, pen
Paper Airplane Pilot
Fold a quick paper airplane and set the elf riding on top, nose-diving toward the couch. Kids can fly it after breakfast.
You'll need: paper
Peekaboo Blanket
Drape a small blanket over the elf so just its feet stick out. Toddlers lift it for a big 'peekaboo!'
You'll need: small blanket
Peeking Out of a Drawer
Leave a kitchen or dresser drawer open an inch with just the elf's face and hands showing over the edge. It looks like it got caught snooping.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Remote Control Hostage
Tuck the TV remote under the elf's arm and set a ransom note: 'Remote returned after one Christmas song is sung, loudly.'
You'll need: TV remote, paper and pen
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.
You'll need: calendar, marker
Sitting in the Shoe
Tuck the elf into one of the kids' shoes by the front door so it's the first thing they find on the way out.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Sleepy Traveler
Tuck the elf into a folded dish towel or sock 'sleeping bag' on the couch. Jet lag is real, even for elves.
You'll need: dish towel or clean sock
Stuck in the Cereal
Bury the elf up to its waist in a cereal box so only the top half pokes out. A spoon lying nearby suggests a midnight snack went wrong.
You'll need: cereal box, spoon
Stuck to the Fridge
Hold the elf to the fridge door with several magnets so it looks pinned in place. A note underneath says 'Too many magnets. Send help.'
You'll need: fridge magnets, paper
Under a Cup
Turn a clear glass or plastic cup upside down over the elf on the table. It's on display like a museum piece, or it trapped itself.
You'll need: clear cup or glass
Window Watcher
Press the elf against a window facing out, as if it's watching for snow or reindeer. Simple, but kids love spotting it from outside.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Alarm Clock Wake-Up
Set the elf next to the alarm clock or nightstand with a note: 'I heard someone snoring!' Kids discover it right as they wake up.
You'll need: paper and pen
Baby Doll Nap Time
Put the elf and a baby doll or soft toy side by side under a washcloth blanket. Everyone is having a nap.
You'll need: baby doll or soft toy, washcloth
Bath Tub Boat
Put the elf in the dry bathtub sitting inside a plastic bowl or toy boat, with a toothbrush oar. Ahoy, captain.
You'll need: plastic bowl or toy boat, toothbrush
Bedroom Door Guard
Sit the elf right outside a child's bedroom door like a guard on duty, with a tiny paper badge. It's the first thing they see.
You'll need: paper
Bedtime Story Request
Leave a note asking for a specific story tonight, like 'the one with the bear', next to the book on the shelf. Bedtime gets an easy win.
You'll need: paper and pen
Building a Block Wall
Stack a few toy blocks or books into a little wall with the elf peeking over the top. It's playing peekaboo.
You'll need: toy blocks or books
Car Seat Passenger
Buckle the elf into a car seat or set it on the dashboard, ready for the school run. It's along for the ride today.
You'll need: Nothing extra
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.'
You'll need: paper, pen
Coat Hook Swing
Hang the elf by its arms from a coat hook or door knob as if it's swinging. It is getting some exercise before the big day.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Color Hunt
Leave a note asking little ones to find three red things in the house before breakfast. The elf sits on the first red thing to get them started.
You'll need: paper and pen
Countdown Sign
Write the number of nights left until Christmas on a sheet of paper and tape it next to the elf. Update it each morning if you like.
You'll need: paper, marker, tape
Cup Tower Climber
Stack three or four plastic cups and set the elf climbing up the side. It's on its way to the top shelf.
You'll need: plastic cups
Dance Party Playlist
Leave a note with three song names and the elf posed mid-dance on the speaker or a book stack. Breakfast comes with a dance party.
You'll need: paper and pen
Drawing Contest
The elf leaves paper and crayons with a note: 'Draw me the best reindeer you can.' Display the winners on the fridge.
You'll need: paper, crayons
Drinking From the Sink
Perch the elf on the sink edge with a straw dipped into a cup. A note says 'This water is way warmer than the North Pole.'
You'll need: straw, cup
Duck Pond
Line up rubber ducks or bath toys in a row behind the elf in the dry bathtub like a parade. Quack quack, here comes the elf.
You'll need: rubber ducks or bath toys
Elf Detective
Give the elf a magnifying glass (or a bottle cap 'lens') and set it inspecting crumbs on the counter. A note asks 'Who ate the last cookie?'
You'll need: magnifying glass or bottle cap, paper
Elf Exit Ticket
Leave a note with one question to answer after school, like 'What was the funniest thing today?' Kids drop their answer in a cup for the elf.
You'll need: paper and pen, cup
Elf Inspector
Give the elf a tiny paper clipboard and a note 'Room inspection: 10 a.m.' It's a cheerful nudge to tidy up.
You'll need: paper, pen
Good Morning Sign
Write 'Good Morning!' in big letters on a sheet of paper and tape it above the elf's spot. It's quick and cheerful on a gray day.
You'll need: paper, marker, tape
Hanging From the Ceiling Fan
Sit the elf on one blade of a ceiling fan that is switched off, holding on tight. Tape a 'Do Not Turn On!' sign to the switch.
You'll need: paper, tape, marker
Hanging on the Tree
Hook the elf onto a sturdy tree branch, arms out like it is helping decorate. Bonus: move one ornament to a silly spot like the top of a lamp.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Hat Swap
Put a bottle cap, thimble or folded paper hat on the elf and leave one of the kids' hats next to it. Today everybody wears a silly hat.
You'll need: bottle cap or paper
Hide the Elf Back Game
Leave a note inviting the kids to hide the elf's hat (not the elf) for the parents to find. It flips the game and buys a night off.
You'll need: paper and pen
Hiding in Plain Sight
Put the elf somewhere obvious but unusual, like in the middle of the dining table. Sometimes the easiest spot fools everyone.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Hiding in the Fruit Bowl
Nestle the elf among the apples and oranges with just its hat showing. It blends right in, almost.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Holding a Spoon Like a Sword
Set the elf at the edge of the counter holding a spoon out like a sword, guarding the cookie jar. A battle stance says it all.
You'll need: spoon
Hugging a Family Photo
Lean the elf against a family photo frame with its arms wrapped around it. It is missing everyone already, even though it never left.
You'll need: Nothing extra
In the Mail Pile
Tuck the elf in among the day's mail on the counter, holding one envelope like it's sorting letters. Busy season at the post office.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Inside the Microwave
Sit the elf inside the (unplugged or switched-off) microwave so the kids spot it through the door. Remove it before anyone heats up breakfast.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Lamp Shade Lookout
Set the elf on top of a lampshade or tall shelf looking down over the room. It is keeping an eye on everyone today.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Library Book Bookmark
Tuck the elf into a library book like a bookmark, head poking out the top. A good nudge for reading time after school.
You'll need: a book
Lunch Note Secret
Write a tiny note signed by the elf and put it next to the lunchbox so the kids can pack it themselves. Something like 'Go have a great day!'
You'll need: paper and pen
Lunchbox Stowaway
Zip the elf into a lunchbox or backpack pocket with its head peeking out. Take it out before the bag goes to school.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Make Someone's Bed
Leave a note: 'Today, make someone else's bed before they notice.' It's a small surprise that sets up a nice morning.
You'll need: paper and pen
Math Riddle
Leave a simple word problem like 'If an elf eats 3 cookies a night for 4 nights, how many cookies?' The answer goes on the back of the note.
You'll need: paper and pen
Morning Weather Report
Prop the elf by the window with a note giving a silly forecast: 'Ninety percent chance of cocoa.' It turns checking the weather into a game.
You'll need: paper and pen
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.
You'll need: paper, tape, pen
Nap in the Egg Carton
Nestle the elf into an empty egg carton like a bed with a paper towel blanket. A sign says 'Do not disturb, laying low.'
You'll need: empty egg carton, paper towel
Note on the Mirror
Stick a sticky note or scrap of paper on the bathroom mirror reading 'You look great today!' with the elf sitting on the sink.
You'll need: paper, tape or sticky note
Pet Spa Day
Put the elf next to the pet's brush and bowl with a note asking the kids to give the family pet extra love today. A treat or a brush counts.
You'll need: pet brush or treat, paper
Plant Whisperer
Seat the elf next to a houseplant holding a cup of water. A note says 'Plants need love in winter too.' Water it together.
You'll need: cup of water
Pocket Pal
Tuck the elf in the pocket of a coat hanging by the door with only its head showing. It's ready to go wherever the family goes.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Rainy Day Umbrella
Open a small umbrella on the floor and tuck the elf underneath with a note: 'Stay cozy inside today.'
You'll need: umbrella
Reading Bedtime Stories
Open a picture book on the floor and arrange a few stuffed animals around the elf like it is reading to them. Leave the book open to a favorite page.
You'll need: a picture book, stuffed animals
Reading the Recipe Book
Open a cookbook to a dessert page and set the elf leaning over it. A sticky note says 'Can we make this?'
You'll need: cookbook, sticky note
Riding a Wooden Spoon
Balance the elf on a wooden spoon laid across two cups like a seesaw or bridge. It's practicing its balance.
You'll need: wooden spoon, two cups
Riding the Family Pet's Toy
Seat the elf on a stuffed animal or the dog's chew toy like it's riding a horse. Point it toward the door as if it's heading out on patrol.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Riding the Robot Vacuum
If you have a robot vacuum or toy truck, perch the elf on top like a driver. It's going for a spin around the house.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Rubber Band Ball Workout
Lean the elf against a mug and drape a hair tie over it like a resistance band, with a 'Reps: 3,000' note. It is training for Christmas Eve.
You'll need: hair tie or rubber band, mug, paper
Secret Helper Mission
The elf leaves a 'mission' envelope: do a chore for a sibling or parent without being asked and without telling anyone. Bonus points for not getting caught.
You'll need: envelope, paper and pen
Shoes Lined Up for School
Arrange everyone's school shoes in a neat line by the door with the elf at the front like a drill sergeant. Mornings go a little faster.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Sibling Swap Compliments
The elf sets two notes on the table, one for each child, asking them to tell their sibling three things they like about them. Simple, and it often works.
You'll need: paper and pen
Sledding Down the Stairs
Put the elf in a baking pan or tray at the top step with a 'Wheee!' note. Move it before anyone walks down in the dark.
You'll need: baking pan or tray, paper
Sliding Down the Banister
Pose the elf partway down a stair railing on a dish towel 'sled', arms up in the air. Skip it if little ones climb the stairs alone.
You'll need: dish towel
Sock Matching Game
Scatter a few clean pairs of socks on the floor with the elf holding one. Toddlers match them up after breakfast.
You'll need: clean socks
Spelling Word Scramble
Write one of this week's spelling words with its letters mixed up on a note by the elf. Kids unscramble it over breakfast.
You'll need: paper and pen
Stargazing on the Windowsill
Point the elf up at the night sky from the windowsill holding a rolled-paper telescope. A note says 'I can see Santa's route from here!'
You'll need: paper, tape
Stuck in the Blinds
Wedge the elf between the slats of a window blind with one leg dangling. It looks like it took a wrong turn on the way in.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Superhero Elf
Tape a square of paper or fabric to the elf's back as a cape and pose it flying off a bookshelf. A note says 'Today, everyone gets a superpower: kindness.'
You'll need: paper or fabric scrap, tape
Taking a Bath in a Mug
Sit the elf inside an empty mug with a washcloth draped over its head like a towel. Short, sweet and quick to clean up.
You'll need: mug, washcloth
Tangled in Headphones
Wrap a pair of headphones or a charger cable loosely around the elf as if it got tangled while listening to music. Untangle it at breakfast.
You'll need: headphones or a cable
Tooth Fairy Visit
Set the elf beside a tiny note 'signed' by a friend who also works nights, saying 'Busy season for everyone!' Great for a family with a wiggly tooth.
You'll need: paper and pen
Toothbrush Lineup
Line up everyone's toothbrushes in a row with the elf at the end holding its own (a cotton swab). It's ready for the morning routine.
You'll need: cotton swab
Tucked Into the Tissue Box
Pop the elf into a tissue box so its head comes out of the slot. It looks like it's been sneezing all night.
You'll need: tissue box
Wearing a Bottle Cap Crown
Set a bottle cap or ring on the elf's head as a crown and give it a pen scepter. A note declares it 'Ruler of the Kitchen' for the day.
You'll need: bottle cap, pen, paper
Toilet Paper Snow Angel
Lay the elf on the bathroom floor surrounded by a fan of unrolled toilet paper, arms spread like a snow angel. Roll the paper back up afterward.
You'll need: toilet paper roll
Toothpaste Message
Write a short message like 'HI!' on the bathroom mirror with a thin line of toothpaste, with the elf holding the tube. It wipes off with a damp cloth.
You'll need: toothpaste
Counting Crackers
Set out a short row of crackers or cereal pieces (three to five) with the elf at the end. Count them together, then eat them.
You'll need: crackers or cereal
Spaghetti Hair
Lay a few strands of dry spaghetti across the elf's head like a wild hairdo, with the open pasta box beside it. It decided to try a new style.
You'll need: dry spaghetti
Compliment Jar
Put a jar on the table with a note: each person adds one compliment for someone else in the family before bed. Read them aloud at the end of the week.
You'll need: jar, paper slips, 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.
You'll need: small bag, paper and pen
Teddy Bear Picnic
Lay a dish towel on the floor with a few teddy bears and a plastic cup set for each guest. The elf is hosting a tea party.
You'll need: dish towel, stuffed animals, plastic cups
Zip Line Across the Room
Run a length of string between two door handles or chair backs at a slight downhill angle and hang the elf from a binder clip or bent paperclip. It looks frozen mid-ride.
You'll need: string, binder clip or paperclip
Animal Sounds Parade
Line up toy animals behind the elf with a note asking the kids to make each animal's sound. Read it aloud at breakfast.
You'll need: toy animals, paper
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.
You'll need: plastic grocery bag, string or yarn
Backwards Clothes
Turn a few shirts in the kids' drawer inside out and leave the elf on top wearing a sock as a hat. A note says 'I tried to help with laundry.'
You'll need: a sock, paper and pen
Blanket Ghost Story Night
Drape a sheet over two chairs with a flashlight inside and the elf peeking out. The note says 'Tonight: cozy stories under here.'
You'll need: sheet or blanket, two chairs, flashlight
Board Game Cheater
Set up a board game with the elf holding extra money or cards behind its back. A note challenges the family to a rematch tonight.
You'll need: any board game
Bowling Alley
Set up ten empty plastic bottles or cups like bowling pins with the elf holding an orange or ball. Game on after breakfast.
You'll need: plastic bottles or cups, small ball or orange
Bubble Bath in the Sink
Fill a dry sink or bowl with cotton balls or a fluffy towel and set the elf in it with a toothbrush 'back scrubber'. It's a bubble bath with no actual water.
You'll need: cotton balls or towel, toothbrush
Building Block Tower
Build a tower of chunky blocks taller than the elf and set it on top, waving. Little ones get to knock it down in the morning.
You'll need: toy blocks
Camping Trip
Build a tiny tent from a folded napkin or book, add a flashlight 'campfire' and lay the elf beside it. Kids can camp in the living room tonight.
You'll need: napkin or book, flashlight
Christmas Song Concert
Arrange the elf with spoon 'microphones' and pots and pans as drums. A note invites the family to sing three holiday songs before lunch.
You'll need: spoons, pots or pans, paper
Coloring Page Surprise
Draw a simple outline of a snowman or tree on paper and leave it with crayons beside the elf. It's an easy, quiet breakfast activity.
You'll need: paper, crayons
Doodle Faces on Bananas
Draw silly faces on the bananas in the fruit bowl with a pen and set the elf among them like it is introducing its new friends.
You'll need: bananas, pen
Elf Bakery
Lay out a mixing bowl, measuring cups and a recipe card with the elf sitting in the bowl. The note says 'Let's bake today!'
You'll need: mixing bowl, measuring cups, recipe card
Elf Chores Chart
Draw a simple chart with three chores and a box for each day, with the elf holding the pen. Add a star when each job is done.
You'll need: paper, pen
Elf Hair Salon
Set the elf at a mirror with a comb, a hair clip and a towel draped over its shoulders. It seems to be trying out a new holiday look.
You'll need: small mirror, comb, hair clip, hand towel
Elf in the Pantry Line
Line up soup cans or boxes like a parade on the pantry shelf with the elf leading the march. A note says 'We're off to the holiday parade!'
You'll need: soup cans or boxes
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.
You'll need: paper, pen
Elf Traps Itself
Prop a laundry basket over the elf with a pencil, like a homemade trap, and put a cookie underneath. Leave a note: 'I couldn't resist.'
You'll need: laundry basket, pencil, cookie
Food Bank Shopping List
The elf leaves a short list of canned goods to collect from the pantry or pick up at the store for a local food drive. The kids help choose and carry.
You'll need: paper and pen, canned goods
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.
You'll need: stuffed animals, paper and pen
Hot Cocoa Bar
Arrange mugs, cocoa packets and spoons on a tray with the elf as the barista, holding a menu. Serve cocoa after dinner tonight.
You'll need: mugs, cocoa packets, spoons, paper
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.
You'll need: paper, pen, tape
Ice Skating Rink
Lay a sheet of foil or a baking sheet on the table and pose the elf gliding on it, with a stuffed animal as its skating partner.
You'll need: aluminum foil or baking sheet, stuffed animal
Indoor Scavenger List
Leave a list of ten things to find inside the house (something soft, something green, a spoon) with the elf holding a pencil. Great for a stuck-inside day.
You'll need: paper and pen
Kindness Bingo
Draw a three-by-three grid of kind acts (share a toy, hug a sibling, say thank you) and leave it with the elf. Three in a row earns a family high-five.
You'll need: paper, pen
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.
You'll need: shoebox or large envelope, marker
Map of the Trip
Draw a quick dotted-line map from a snowflake labeled 'North Pole' to a house labeled with your family name. Set the elf on the map at the finish line.
You'll need: paper, pen or markers
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.
You'll need: jar, paper slips, pen
Ornament Swap
Move three ornaments to strange spots in the house, like a plant or a doorknob, with a note asking the kids to find and rehang them.
You'll need: paper and pen
Pancake Flip
Put the elf in the kitchen holding a spatula, with a paper pancake drawn on a plate. If you have time, make real pancakes in the morning.
You'll need: spatula, paper, marker, plate
Paper Crown Coronation
Cut a simple crown from paper, color it, and set it beside the elf with a note naming one child 'King or Queen of Kindness' for the day.
You'll need: paper, scissors, markers
Paper Cup Phone
Connect two paper cups with a long string and set the elf holding one end. Kids can test it from room to room.
You'll need: two paper cups, string
Passport Check
Fold a sheet of paper into a tiny passport with the elf's name, a doodled photo and a 'North Pole' stamp. Leave it open next to the elf like it is waiting at customs.
You'll need: paper, pen or markers
Picture Frame Portrait
Remove the photo from a small frame and sit the elf inside it, posing like a portrait. A note says 'Hang me in the hall of fame.'
You'll need: small picture frame
Puzzle Challenge
Start a jigsaw puzzle and put the elf on top holding the last missing piece. The family finishes it together.
You'll need: jigsaw puzzle
Selfie Spree
If you have an old phone or tablet the kids can use, take a few silly photos of the elf around the house and leave them on the camera roll. The kids find a whole photo shoot.
You'll need: old phone or tablet
Shape Hunt Cards
Draw a circle, square and triangle on three cards and hide them in easy spots. The elf holds the first one and waits for little detectives.
You'll need: paper, marker
Snack Heist
Hang the elf upside down from a cabinet handle by a ribbon or shoelace, reaching for the snack shelf. It looks like a spy movie gone wrong.
You'll need: ribbon or shoelace
Sneaky Shoe Swap
Mix up everyone's shoes by the door so each pair is mismatched, with the elf sitting inside one shoe. Mornings get a laugh before the rush.
You'll need: Nothing extra
Snowball Toss
Crumple white paper into 'snowballs' and leave them in a basket with a target drawn on paper. The elf holds the first one.
You'll need: white paper, basket, marker
Stack of Toilet Rolls Tower
Build a pyramid of toilet paper rolls with the elf sitting proudly on top. A note says 'New personal record.'
You'll need: toilet paper rolls
Stuffed Animal Hospital
Lay a few stuffed animals in a row with bandages or tissues wrapped around them and the elf playing doctor. Kids take over the rounds after breakfast.
You'll need: stuffed animals, tissues or bandages
Stuffed Animal Interview
Seat the elf across from a stuffed animal with a pen 'microphone' between them. Leave a note with the 'questions' it asked, like 'Who snores the loudest in this house?'
You'll need: stuffed animal, pen, paper
Thank-You Note for a Helper
Set out paper and crayons with a note suggesting a thank-you card for a teacher, bus driver or mail carrier. The elf has already drawn a star in the corner.
You'll need: paper, crayons or markers
Tiny Thank-You Notes on Doors
Tape a small note to each bedroom door thanking that person for something specific they did this week. The elf sits on the last door handle.
You'll need: paper, pen, tape
Toy Donation Box
Place an empty box beside the elf with a note asking the kids to choose one or two toys they've outgrown to give to another child. Drop it off together this weekend.
You'll need: empty box, paper and pen
Train Conductor
Line up toy cars or a train set with the elf in the front car. Add a paper ticket for each child.
You'll need: toy cars or train, paper
Upside-Down Day
Turn a few pictures, the elf and a couple of chairs upside down. Leave a note that says 'Everything is upside down at the North Pole today!'
You'll need: paper and pen
Welcome Back Breakfast
Set the breakfast table early and seat the elf at an empty plate with a napkin tucked in. Leave a note that says it flew all night and is starving for pancakes.
You'll need: plate, napkin, paper and pen
Wrapped Like a Present
Wrap the elf loosely in a piece of tissue or paper towel with only its face poking out and a bow or ribbon on top. A tag reads 'Do Not Open Until Breakfast'.
You'll need: tissue paper or paper towel, ribbon or string
Writing Letters to the North Pole
Set the elf at a desk with an envelope addressed 'To the North Pole' and a blank sheet. Kids write their wish lists today.
You'll need: envelope, paper, pen
Yoga Class
Pose the elf in a stretch on a folded washcloth 'mat', with a phone or tablet showing a stick figure doodle as the instructor. Add a note: 'Day one of elf yoga. I am very sore.'
You'll need: washcloth, paper and pen
Suitcase Unpacking
Open a small bag or pencil case beside the elf with tiny 'luggage' spilling out: a sock, a toothbrush, a folded note. The elf looks like it just landed and hasn't finished unpacking.
You'll need: small bag or pencil case, a sock, a spare toothbrush, paper
Arrival Hot Cocoa
Leave out a mug with dry cocoa powder and a spoon, with the elf peeking over the rim. A note says cocoa is how elves warm up after a long flight.
You'll need: mug, cocoa powder, spoon, paper and pen
Car Wash
Line up toy cars with a sponge and a dish towel, and the elf holding a 'Car Wash Open' sign. Toddlers can wash them in a bowl of water later.
You'll need: toy cars, sponge, dish towel, paper
Elf Spa Day
Set the elf on a washcloth with two cucumber slices or paper circles over its eyes. It needed a day off before the big night.
You'll need: washcloth, cucumber slices or paper
Gratitude Chain
Leave paper strips and tape with a note: add one link to the chain every night for something you're thankful for. The chain gets longer as the season goes on.
You'll need: paper strips, tape, pen
Leftover Magic Sprinkles
Leave a small bowl of colored sugar or sprinkles labeled 'leftover magic, use wisely'. The note asks the kids to sprinkle a pinch on the porch so the elf can find its way back next year.
You'll need: small bowl, sprinkles or colored sugar, paper and pen
Paper Bag Puppets
Set out paper lunch bags and markers with the elf modeling a finished puppet. A rainy day puppet show is on.
You'll need: paper bags, markers
Reindeer Food Mix
Leave a bowl of oats and a pinch of sprinkles with a note asking the kids to scatter it outside for reindeer on Christmas Eve. Natural oats are kinder to wildlife than glitter.
You'll need: oats, sprinkles, bowl
Snack for the Flight
Set out a few crackers and a cup of water in a lunch bag labeled 'Flight Snacks' with the elf waving beside it. In the morning the bag is empty except for crumbs.
You'll need: crackers, small cup, paper bag, marker
Snow Globe Shake-Up
Sprinkle a little flour or sugar around the elf on a dark tray, as if it brought a dusting of snow inside with it. Add a note: 'It was snowing when I left!'
You'll need: dark tray or baking sheet, flour or sugar, paper and pen
Sidewalk Chalk Hello
Leave chalk with the elf and a note asking the kids to write a cheerful message on the driveway or sidewalk for people walking by.
You'll need: sidewalk chalk
Footprints to the Window
Sprinkle a light path of flour footprints from the elf's spot to a window, made by pressing a fingertip. The elf is gone, leaving only its trail and a note on the sill.
You'll need: flour, paper and pen
Googly Eyes Everywhere
Stick googly eyes on fruit, the milk jug and the light switch, with the elf holding the leftover sheet. Take them off before they end up in the dishwasher.
You'll need: googly eyes
Stickers on the Fridge
Leave a short trail of stickers from the bedroom door to the elf on the fridge. Toddlers follow the path to find it.
You'll need: stickers
Bird Seed Breakfast
Leave a small bag of birdseed or crumbled crackers by the elf with a note asking the kids to feed the birds outside. Nature gets a holiday treat too.
You'll need: birdseed or crackers, paper bag
Bubbles on the Window
Draw circles on a window or mirror with a dry-erase marker so they look like bubbles floating up from the elf. It wipes right off.
You'll need: dry-erase marker
Kindness Rocks
Leave a few smooth stones and markers with a note asking the kids to draw happy pictures to leave on a walk for strangers to find.
You'll need: smooth stones, permanent markers
Marshmallow Snowball Fight
Scatter mini marshmallows around the elf and a stuffed animal like they've been having a snowball fight. The kids can finish the battle at breakfast.
You'll need: mini marshmallows, stuffed animal
Snow Day Forecast
Leave a cotton-ball snowstorm around the elf on a windowsill with a note saying 'Snow is coming somewhere!'
You'll need: cotton balls
Indoor Snowman Building
Stack three rolls of toilet paper into a snowman with a paper scarf and marker face, and set the elf beside it holding a 'carrot' made of orange paper.
You'll need: toilet paper rolls, paper, marker, tape
Treasure Hunt
Hide four or five clue notes around the house that lead to a small treat or the elf itself. Each clue rhymes or points to the next spot.
You'll need: paper and pen, a small treat
Fishing in the Sink
Tie a string to a pencil and dangle it into a bowl of paper fish, with the elf as the fisherman. Write a number on each fish for a morning counting game.
You'll need: pencil, string, bowl, paper, marker
Holiday Joke Jar
Fill a cup with folded jokes and set the elf on the rim. Kids pull one out each morning until it's empty.
You'll need: cup, paper slips, pen
Sock Puppet Show
Turn two socks into puppets and drape them over the edge of a cardboard box stage with the elf as the audience. Add a hand-lettered 'Showtime 7 a.m.' sign.
You'll need: two socks, cardboard box, paper and marker
Thank-You Notes for Everyone
Leave a tiny folded note addressed to each family member with one thing the elf noticed them doing well this season. Specific praise lands better than 'be good'.
You'll need: paper, pen
Countdown Chain Starter
Leave paper strips and a stapler or tape next to the elf with a note asking the kids to make a paper chain with one link for every night until Christmas Eve. The elf has already made the first link.
You'll need: paper strips, stapler or tape, pen
Elf Mail Slot
Cut a slot in a shoebox lid and label it 'Elf Mail'. Kids can drop notes to the elf in the box all week.
You'll need: shoebox, scissors, marker
Elf Olympics
Set up tiny 'events' on the floor: a pencil hurdle, a bottle-cap discus, a ribbon finish line. The elf has a paper medal around its neck.
You'll need: pencils, bottle caps, ribbon, paper
Elf-Sized Movie Night
Set up a phone or tablet on a shelf with a few popcorn kernels in a cupcake liner and the elf in a 'seat' of folded paper. Plan a real family movie night that evening.
You'll need: popcorn, cupcake liner or small bowl, paper
Last Night Photo Booth
Cut a paper frame and lean it against the wall so the elf looks like it is posing for a farewell photo. Invite the kids to take a picture of themselves in the same frame in the morning.
You'll need: paper or cardboard, scissors, marker
Mustache Makeover
Draw small mustaches on paper, cut them out and tape them to family photos around the house. The elf sits by the scissors looking innocent.
You'll need: paper, marker, scissors, tape
Pajama Breakfast Picnic
Lay a blanket on the living room floor with plates, cups and the elf in the middle. Breakfast is a picnic today.
You'll need: blanket, plates, cups
Pasta Necklace Gift
Thread dry pasta onto a string and leave the necklace with the elf as a gift for a family member. Kids can make more after breakfast.
You'll need: dry pasta, string
Pillow Fort Takeover
Build a small fort from couch cushions and a blanket and put the elf at the entrance with a 'Members Only' sign. The kids can claim it after breakfast.
You'll need: couch cushions, blanket, paper and marker
Craft Station
Leave paper, glue and any craft supplies you have in a tray with the elf supervising. Today's job: make ornaments for the tree.
You'll need: paper, glue, craft supplies
Paper Snowflake Workshop
Cut a few paper snowflakes and tape them to a window, with the elf sitting among scraps and safety scissors. Kids can add their own.
You'll need: paper, scissors, tape
Holiday Card Assembly Line
Set out envelopes, stamps and a few holiday cards with the elf supervising. Kids can add stickers or drawings to each card before it goes in the mail.
You'll need: holiday cards, envelopes, stickers or markers
Sticky Note Countdown Tree
Arrange green sticky notes into a triangle tree on a door with the elf at the top as the star. Remove one note each morning.
You'll need: green sticky notes
Sticky Note Wall
Cover a small patch of a door or wall with sticky notes in a smiley face pattern, with the elf holding the pad. It takes ten minutes and looks like an hour's work.
You'll need: sticky notes
Gingerbread Construction Zone
Set the elf with graham crackers, frosting and candy laid out like a building site, with a 'Hard Hat Area' sign. Build the house together after breakfast.
You'll need: graham crackers, frosting, candy
Questions parents ask
What can I do with the elf when I have no props?
20 of the ideas need nothing at all: a funny spot, a pose or a one-line note. Untick everything above and those are what is left.
What household items are most useful for elf ideas?
Paper and a pen, cups and bowls, and a towel or sock cover most quick ideas. Tape, string and a cardboard box unlock most of the rest.
Does the page remember what I ticked?
No. The filter runs in your browser and is cleared when you leave. The Merrimove app keeps your list on your iPhone and uses it for tonight's pick and the two-minute ideas.