Elf on the Shelf has become a fun Christmas tradition for families worldwide, creating a fun and exciting way to build excitement in the run up to Christmas. The idea originates from the children’s book The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition, which explains how Santa’s “scout elves” help him decide who’s on the naughty and nice list. Each night, the elf “returns” to the North Pole to report on the day’s events, magically reappearing in a new spot each morning. For children, discovering the elf’s new hiding place is a source of morning excitement, and for parents, it’s a unique way to create memories and build the Christmas spirit.
With young children, particularly toddlers, the Elf on the Shelf tradition can take on an especially magical quality. As they discover the elf each morning, they build anticipation for Christmas in a fun and exciting way. However, it’s important to keep things simple, manageable, and toddler-friendly, so that Elf on the Shelf remains a source of joy instead of stress for both parents and kids.
How Different Families Make Elf on the Shelf Their Own
One of the best things about Elf on the Shelf is its versatility. Some families create elaborate, playful scenes for the elf involving multiple props each night, while others prefer a simpler approach. There’s no right or wrong way to enjoy this tradition, and every family can adjust it to fit their schedule, interests, and, perhaps most importantly, energy level. For parents with toddlers, setups should ideally be easy, fun, and geared toward a toddler’s sense of wonder.
Some families may introduce special rules around Elf on the Shelf, such as “no touching” the elf to maintain its magic, while others allow their children to interact more closely. Some parents may add little notes or a tiny gift from the elf occasionally, making it feel extra special. Ultimately, the idea is to create a memorable experience without any added pressure, especially during the busy festive period.
Top Tips for Planning Elf on the Shelf Setups for Toddlers
Planning Elf on the Shelf activities for toddlers can be a bit different from setups for older kids. Here are a few key points to keep in mind to ensure it’s a delightful experience for everyone:
- Avoid Scary Setups: Toddlers might not yet understand humour in the same way older children do, so setups that might seem funny to adults (like the elf wrapped in “toilet paper trouble”) could confuse or even scare them. Stick to friendly and inviting scenes that keep things light and fun.
- Limit Messy Scenarios: While it can be tempting to set up funny messes for the elf (such as “spilled” cereal or scattered toys), these setups can sometimes leave parents cleaning up late into the night. Instead, aim for scenes that are easy to arrange and clean up, ensuring that the tradition doesn’t add extra stress to your routine.
- Make a Hands Off or On Plan: Toddlers are naturally curious and might want to touch the elf. Decide in advance whether it’s okay for them to interact with the elf, and if not, consider using a “no-touch” rule as part of the story.
- Get the Whole Family Involved: Let siblings help brainstorm setups, making it a family activity. Older siblings may have fun coming up with new places for the elf, making it an experience everyone can enjoy.
10 Elf on the Shelf Ideas Toddlers Will Love
Here are some easy, fun ideas to make your Elf on the Shelf setups extra special for toddlers. Some incorporate products like puzzles and wooden blocks, so you’ll not only create fun morning elf setups but also promote play and interaction with some of their favourite toys.
- Elf Puzzle Time
Position the elf with one of your toddler’s favourite puzzles, like the Classic World Number Puzzle. Arrange a few puzzle pieces around the elf to make it look like he’s solving the puzzle. This setup encourages toddlers to join in and finish the puzzle themselves. - Block Tower Elf
Set up the elf “climbing” a tower made from Classic World 100 Wooden Blocks or have him “knock” one down. Toddlers can join in the fun by building their own towers, allowing for creative play that engages them with their favourite toys. - Elf’s Art Studio
Create a mini “drawing area” with a few crayons and a colouring book. Position the elf as if he’s been doodling, leaving a few crayons nearby. Toddlers can then add their own art next to the elf’s creation. If you have an easel or chalk board they can also work well for this setup. - Mini Picnic with Toy Food
Set up a picnic scene with pretend food. Use the elf as the “host” and invite a few stuffed animals or toys to join. It’s a cute scene that toddlers will love, especially if they have their own play food to join the fun. If your toddler has their own play kitchen you could turn Elf into chef with them cooking breakfast. - Bath time Elf
Position the elf near the bath toys or with a bowl of bubbles to make it look like he’s enjoying a mini bath time. Toddlers can relate to this and might want to help “clean up” or give their toys a bath too! - Race Car Elf
Use toy cars to set up a “race” scene, with the elf riding along in a toy car. Toddlers will love helping him “race” by lining up more cars and adding their own toys as spectators. - Toy Story Time
Arrange the elf with a few of your child’s favourite toys, like a gathering or story circle. The elf could be reading a small book to them. Toddlers can add more toys to the group and enjoy a bit of their own storytime. - Building Train Tracks
Place the elf on a small wooden train track, as if he’s helping to build or drive the train. This is especially fun if your toddler enjoys trains, and they can join in by adding more tracks. - Snowball Fight Elf
Set up a “snowball fight” using cotton balls or marshmallows, making it look like the elf has been throwing snowballs. It’s a fun, light hearted scene with minimal clean up. - Snack Time Drawings
Your elf write silly faces or words on fruit with peel (i.e. bananas or satsumas). Your toddler will have fun discovering naughty faces and it will, hopefully, encourage extra fruit consumption – win, win!
Managing Elf on the Shelf as a Parent
To help make the Elf on the Shelf tradition a stress-free experience, here’s a simple checklist to help plan ahead:
- Plan Your Setups in Advance: Having a rough idea for each day’s setup can save you from last minute panic. It doesn’t need to be overly detailed, just a quick list to give you inspiration.
- Stick to a Consistent Routine: Try moving the elf at the same time each night so it becomes part of your evening routine, rather than a panicked afterthought in the middle of the night.
- Set Boundaries on Mess: Decide how much of a “mess” you’re comfortable creating. Some setups can be very elaborate but may be challenging to clean up.
- Decide on Rules for Touching: Clarify with your children if the elf is “watching” and shouldn’t be touched, or if they can interact with him. Setting these expectations from the start helps avoid confusion.
- Get Everyone Involved: Make Elf on the Shelf a family activity by asking older siblings to help brainstorm and set up scenes. It keeps things fun for everyone.
- Have Fun with It: Remember that Elf on the Shelf is meant to be a joyful part of the season. The goal isn’t perfection – it’s about creating a bit of magic and fun for your children.
With these toddler-friendly Elf on the Shelf ideas and a bit of planning, you can create a stress-free holiday experience filled with joy, play, and memories that your toddler will treasure.
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