Elf on the Shelf 101 for Elf Newbies

Elf on the Shelf 101, Ideas for introducing and picking a name for your Elf on the Shelf, plus free Elf on the Shelf Printables, and Elf on the Shelf Ideas

Chances are you’ve heard of Elf on the Shelf. Santa’s little helper that visits your family during December, delighting children with his mischievous nighttime antics. Well, if you haven’t, this post will certainly be eye-opening.

For the rest of you who are ready to jump on board with your first child now of age or a whole brood, I’ve compiled an easy How-To of sorts to make the most of your Elf on the Shelf experience!

Choosing a Name for your Elf on the Shelf

Start here by choosing the perfect name for your family Elf. This list of names is a perfect place to find the name that suits your family or a good jumping board to create your own. Check out these cute Elf on the Shelf names at Desert Chica.

How to Introduce your Elf on the Shelf

Now that he’s got a name, you’ll need to introduce him to the family. As varied as names can be, the first meeting can be just as creative. Here are a few fun ways to introduce your Elf on the Shelf.

Free Printables

There are many times your Elf may need to leave a message for the children to find in the morning. Take advantage of the adorable printables below to meet the goals of your family. Here are some cute Elf on the Shelf printables from Moms and Munchkins and some printable Elf on the Shelf activity cards from Second Chance to Dream.

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Elf Activity Ideas

Now this step is VERY important, it is the reason why your Elf will be able to encourage your children to change their behavior and bring a smile their faces everyday. Whatever you choose to have your Elf do after bedtime, is sure to bring happiness to your house – beware, you might have more fun than you think creating diversions. For those out there who are thinking, “Whose got time for that?!” check out my super easy Elf on the Shelf ideas for slackers like me. If you enjoy going to elaborate lengths to wow your kids then definitely check out these cute Elf on the Shelf sized doughnuts from Views from the ‘Ville.

Elf Emergencies

Now, it happens to all of us – We stayed up to late, there was a neighborhood party, or we thought Dad had this one – the morning comes and you realize you’ve forgotten to move your Elf. Keep these handy, quick, emergency Elf on the Shelf ideas from The Jenny Evolution close for those times. You’ll have saved the day before the kids pitter patter reaches your ears.

If you haven’t yet purchased an Elf on the Shelf for your family, you can find them on Amazon.com. (They can occasionally be difficult to find in stores because they tend to sell out.)

Good Luck and Best Wishes with your new Elf on the Shelf family tradition!