It happens to every busy parent—you remember the Elf just as you're climbing into bed! Don't panic. These Last-Minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas are perfect for busy nights and takes 5 minutes or less! Keep the magic alive with these quick and simple setups.
Quick Elf Setups (5 Minutes or Less!)
Elf Ziplining Hang the Elf from a piece of string or yarn tied between two points, like cabinet handles.
Elf Snow Angel Lay the Elf on a counter and use flour, sugar, or sprinkles to make an angel outline around him.
Elf Reading a Book Place the Elf sitting inside a favorite children’s book, positioned as if he is reading a chapter.
Elf Hiding in the Fridge Tuck the Elf inside the butter dish, egg carton, or freezer door for a chilly surprise.
Elf Playing a Game Position the Elf holding a small game piece or peeking out from the side of a game box.
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Elf Coloring a Picture Place the Elf near a coloring book with a crayon in his hand, leaving a half-finished page.
Elf Trapped in a Jar Simply place the Elf inside a large glass jar or clear mixing bowl with the lid on, looking trapped.
Elf Making Cereal Place the Elf inside an open cereal box with a spoon, or spilling a trail of cereal onto the counter.
Elf Leaving a Note Set the Elf next to a small note written in pencil, wishing the kids a fun day.
Elf Making a Selfie Position the Elf holding a small camera, phone, or remote and pointing it at a mirror.
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Elf Activities Mega Bundle
Make the holiday season extra magical with this Elf Activities Mega Bundle! This all-in-one pack includes everything you need for festive fun, from activity calendars to games and writing prompts.
Included:
- Activity Calendar
- What’s Your Elf Name?
- Elf Kindness Challenge
- Elf Movement Cards
- Elf Note Cards
- Elf Thank You Notes
- Elf Joke Cards
- Elf Printable Pack
- Elf Writing Prompts
- Elf Games
DOWNLOAD PDF HERE
Elf Laundry Basket Sled Place the Elf sitting inside a lightweight laundry basket on a blanket, positioned as if he sled down the stairs.
Elf Toothpaste Message Use a tube of toothpaste to write a simple message like "HI!" or "BE GOOD!" on the bathroom mirror.
Elf Marshmallow Bath Sit the Elf in a mug or small bowl filled with mini marshmallows for a cozy, pretend bath.
Elf Weightlifting Use two small marshmallows with a pretzel stick between them to create a tiny barbell for the Elf to lift.
Elf Banana Message Write a quick message, like "Good Morning," directly on a banana peel using a sharpie.
Elf Hiding in Shoes Tuck the Elf headfirst into a tall boot or sneaker, leaving his legs sticking out.
Shop Our Christmas Printables
Need a reward for your Elf's efforts? Our printables are the perfect solution to pair with these Last-Minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas!
Looking for instant download Christmas fun?
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Find simple and fun Christmas games, puzzles, and activities on our main site: Crafted with Bliss Christmas Collection
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Check out our highly-rated printable packs and holiday bundles: Crafted with Bliss Etsy Shop
Rest easy knowing you have plenty of Last-Minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas that takes 5 minutes or less!