There is a new family tradition sweeping the country, and its name is "Elf on the Shelf." In case you haven't heard about this before, here's the story. Thanks to Rochester Mom, Kari Thevenot for this great idea!
Sometime before the holidays, one of Santa's elves shows up at your house.
The purpose: The elf will observe the childrens' behavior and give a report to Santa each night after everyone has gone to bed. When the family wakes up the next morning, the elf will return but be in a different spot.
For those of you whose children still believe in Santa, this can be a true motivator of good behavior (at least until Christmas, anyway!).
You might be asking yourself, "where can I get one ?"
Locally, the Elf on the Shelf kits have been found in Hallmark and Barnes & Noble stores can be limited in supply. The full kit with book and poseable elf retails for $29.95.
Online, you can find them at:
- www.elfontheshelf.com
- www.barnesandnoble
- www.amazon.com (use caution, some sellers are charging a higher price for these kits)
If you are unable to find one in stores or online, don't worry! You don't have to use the kit to participate. Just find a plush or other easy to pose elf or special doll.
It's a good idea to plot out where your elf will be found in advance so that you don't have to think of something new each day.
Here are some ideas of where you can strategically place your elf.
- Christmas tree branch
- Fireplace mantle
- Next to a bowl of cereal
- Next to a cookie (with tiny "bites" taken out of it and a few crumbs laying around)
- Next to a marshmallow
- With a small sign in his hands, written in "elf" (whimsical, small script)
- Trail of fake snow
- Sitting atop child's favorite stuffed animal
- In the bathroom
- Next to the child on their pillow
The ideas are limited only by your imagination! If you bring an elf into your home, be sure to let us know what things you tried.
