He’s part secret agent, part mischief-maker and, let’s be honest, a bit of a tattletale. But there’s no denying it – the Elf on the Shelf is here to stay!
Parents often fuss over his last day, but let’s not forget his grand entrance. The Elf on the Shelf’s arrival day deserves some serious fanfare!
Did the elf’s debut day creep up on you? No worries!
With this handy list of 14 Elf on the Shelf arrival ideas, being blindsided is no longer a problem. Whether you’re up for a little prep work or looking for quick and easy solutions, we’ve got you covered.
Be they elaborate or simple, each idea adds that extra sprinkle of magic to welcome Santa’s top-notch partner, the beloved Elf on the Shelf!
First Day Back Elf On The Shelf Ideas
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Since the whole purpose here is to make a big deal about the Elf’s return, what could be better than a welcome back letter?
These free printable Elf on the Shelf arrival and welcome letters will get the excitement flowing by building anticipation for his arrival.
This post contains another set of free printables geared toward first-time elf hosts. What is great about this Elf on the Shelf rules printable is that it helps reinforce the rules kids have to follow during the visit.
That way, little ones not already on board with the deal can get up to speed quickly and use these as a reminder whenever necessary.
And here is the middle ground between the groups. These ideas run the gamut from the more involved to the quick and easy.
The balloon arrival doesn’t take a ton of prep or cleanup and will leave a big impression. Plus there are thirty-seven other ideas, so there’s something for everyone.
Some people just want a lovely printable that will acknowledge the elf’s arrival without too much fuss. Then, others want a bit more. This Elf on the Shelf ideas list is definitely for the second group.
Nearly all of them require prep time, and most will take a fair amount of cleanup afterward. But they will leave a lasting impression, that is for sure. These ideas are perfect for families embracing the elf concept every year.
Here is another set of free printable arrival letters for the elf. What sets these apart is that these letters are geared towards families hosting their elves for the first time.
They explain a little more about what is going on for kids who aren’t already familiar with the little holiday visitor.
This post is loaded with different clever ideas to herald the Elf on the Shelf. But the most fun one is the sleigh he rides in on. The best part? The reindeer are made from sodas that the kids can have as a treat after the elf has made his big entrance.
This next idea is another one that takes some prep work, but the Elf on the Shelf advent calendar will keep rewarding kids every day until Christmas. They will be amazed when he shows up with these cute packages in tow.
Keeping with the Advent calendar theme, this idea is perfect for people who can’t bring themselves to toss out toilet paper rolls. Put those leftover tubes to good use with this DIY advent calendar. It’s so easy to make and offers customization options depending on how intricate you want it to be.
Kids will love ripping open the chamber each day to discover a new toy or treat. They will be so excited to see that their little elf visitor built them an entire Advent calendar.
This DIY Elf on the Shelf prop is another great idea for a used toilet paper roll. Plus, this only takes one roll, so there is no need to save them up if you haven’t been.
Kids will flip out when they see that the elf has arrived for the season and took the time to build a little swing.
Of course, with all this celebration about the elf's arrival, we don’t usually stop to think how he got here. These printables and instructions provide him with a unique method of making the trip from the North Pole.
So here’s the thing about the Elf on the Shelf. As mentioned earlier, he can
be a bit of a stinker. And he’s not always the most reliable. Some nights, he
forgets to move.
Some years, he doesn’t even show up at the start of December. Luckily, this free printable letter helps him explain why he didn’t quite make it to the house on time.
Winter and hot chocolate just go so well together. And, of course, the Elf on
the Shelf loves hot chocolate.
It’s his favorite, probably. Set up a fun hot chocolate station and print out the free printable with a cute little message from the elf.
We all know that the elf likes to cause a little mischief. But his tricks aren’t ever mean. For example, this free printable gives kids a fun arrival letter with a twist.
The whole thing is in code, so they must decode it to read what he has to say to them.
This last Elf on the Shelf arrival idea helps the elf live up to his name by providing decor ideas for an actual shelf.
The free printable poem is perfect for his home away from home, but there are plenty of other ideas for making a cozy spot for this visitor from the North Pole.
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Sam is the crafter and founder of Simple Everyday Mom. She has been featured in Oprah Mag, Good Housekeeping, The Spruce Crafts, Country Living, The Bump and more. Read more.