Let’s be honest, some parents have more fun with Elf on the Shelf than the kids do! It gives us a bit of a creative outlet to come up with new hiding spots and hilarious situations for your child’s elf to get into.
‘Tis the season to dust off your Elf on the Shelf and get working on some fun ideas to make your little one laugh, cry, or even jump for joy. Since most elves come just after Thanksgiving and need a new hiding spot until they leave on Christmas Eve, you’ll need a months worth of Elf on the Shelf ideas and activities!
Have fun with this and get creative because the joy, excitement, and magic of Christmas won’t last in your little one’s heart for much longer!
If you haven’t welcomed your elf yet, grab this FREE printable elf welcome letter. If you want to personalize it, grab one at my Etsy shop, Just Simply Mom Designs for a few bucks!
Make sure you plan your elves’ arrival well! You can have a whole North Pole Breakfast to welcome your elf which will completely amaze your children. Get some ideas for your North Pole Breakfast here.
94 Funny and Last Minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas
Since we all know that life as a parent can be chaotic as it is, adding another part to your daily routine can be a bit daunting. During the Christmas season, keeping up with the Elf on the Shelf tradition seems bothersome, however, it will bring so much joy to your child’s eyes.
Don’t forget to grab glue dots for the best way to make your Elf’s arms and legs stick where you want it. Also, stick floral wire or an unwound paper clip into his arms and legs to make them easier to manipulate and stay in position.
With the funny Elf on the shelf ideas below, you’ll never have to think too hard for a good idea that your kids will love.
Underpants on the Tree
Give your kids a chuckle when they see their underwear on the tree! Add a little poem to go with it – I see London, I see France, I decorated the tree with your underpants!
Dutch oven in a jar
You can create a rotten fart smell by combining 2 simple spices – cumin and nutmeg. Mix about 1 teaspoon of each in a small bowl, dump into the car and close the lid for 10 minutes. Open the jar, dump out the spices and put your elf inside.
When your child takes off the lid (without touching the elf), he will smell the fart right away!
Elf Poops Chocolate
Unwrap Hershey kisses to show elf squatting on the potty. I used my kid’s small potty seat so he could fit better, but you can use your own toilet seat as well.
Shoe Shining
If you have aluminum foil in the house, you can do this quickly and easily!
You’re on thin ice
This is an awesome elf stunt, but not so last-minute. Use plastic wrap over a sink and sprinkle some fake snow around, and this gives the impression that elf fell through thin ice.
Save him from the sharks
If you have toy sharks in your home, this is an easy and last minute elf idea. Have elf hanging from a sink faucet with sharks below. You can also fill the sink with water and add other fish to create a whole underwater scene.
Singing Christmas Carols
Draw singing faces on your fruit (the ones with peels, unless they are edible markers), and have Elf conducting the symphony.
Get a bathroom Elf!
Place small chocolate chips or chocolate sprinkles in a glass and have elf sitting over it doing his business. Bonus points if you give him his own reading material.
Sprinkle faucet
Ok this one really takes some time and effort but can be done! Try rolling up some plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or anything that can make a long skinny tube. Then you’ll want to glue on a ton of sprinkles. Obviously this doesn’t have to be done one-by-one, but all the tube in glue and then roll the sticky tube in sprinkles.
A Boobie Trap
Your older kids may be so grossed out by this, but it is a good one!
Stuck in a Bottle
Your kids will be AMAZED at trying to figure out how elf got stuck in there. How does he fit, you ask? Remove the water bottle label, cut the bottle in half where the label was, place elf inside, put bottle back together, and place the label back over the cut in the bottle. Voila!
Tub of candy spaghetti
Well this is an absurd amount of wasted pasta, but you can do this on a MUCH smaller scale. Make some spaghetti and add in chocolate and marshmallows for a elf feast of candy spaghetti.
Apple juice or pee?
My kids got a kick out of this one. Only 1 out of 3 of my kids would taste it!
Poop Museum
Lots of varieties of candy to show different Christmas poop.
Tangled in the lights
Elf shouldn’t have been trying to hang those lights on the roof!
The Floor is Lava
Even elf can’t touch the floor when the floor is lava!
In the hot tub
Fill a crock pot or even a regular pot with cotton balls or marshmallows and show elf and friends soaking.
Melted snowman
Silly elf, didn’t you know he would melt? Use a baby carrot, google eyes, and water to create this simple, last minute elf idea.
Elf Isolation House
Although we shouldn’t have to worry about quarantine much in 2023, this Elf Isolation House is the perfect way to have your elf self-isolate for 14 days to ensure they are healthy when they arrive from the North Pole. This is the perfect EASY elf on the shelf idea for home – 2 weeks done and done!
Buried in the “Snow”
Grab some mini (or regular sized) marshmallows and stuff them into any jar, lantern, bowl, or container. This makes it seem like your elf is buried in the snow.
Going for a Ride in the Washer
Strap ’em in and they’re off! Elf is having fun on his roller coaster.
Swapping out the icing for toothpaste
Elf is up to no good by swapping out the Oreo’s icing for toothpaste. Gross!
Elf is on a Roll
Whoops. I guess your elf had a little spill down the stairs while he got stuck in a toilet paper roll!
Riding on Santa’s Train
If you have some Christmas trains riding around your tree or set up as your Christmas decor, place elf on the train. Choo Choo!
What can you find in the couch cushions?
Elf is looking for treasure under the couch, but all he’s finding is some old wrappers, legos, and coins.
Making himself cozy with a mask hammock
Simply attach a facial mask to two bottles, and you have yourself a little elf hammock.
An Elf Kiss
There’s no chocolate in the center of this Hershey Kiss, just a silly elf! Use aluminum foil to wrap him up like a chocolate.
Bubble Fart
If you have a mini gum ball machine and a balloon, this is hilarious!
Pee or lemonade?
This may gross out your little ones, but it’s really just lemonade- or is it?
A Little Tied Up
Whoops. Maybe your elf was up to no good and got himself into some trouble. Tie him up with some tape, looking like an attempted kidnapping. Laying in front of a train really adds to the drama.
Getting into the Toothpaste
Make it appear like your elf has gotten into their toothpaste by squeezing a message out in toothpaste. Put it on the counter, on the mirror, or even the wall. Just don’t make too much of a mess because remember, you’ll be the one cleaning it up!
Gone Fishing
Elf has gone on a fishing trip, but he’s catching your kiddos bath toys this time! Attach some string to a small straw or stick to make a fishing rod. Use squeaky bath toys as his prey.
Don’t have fish toys? Use Saran Wrap over your toilet seat and cut out pictures of goldfish to tape on. A straw and string makes the perfect fishing rod.
This Ain’t a Bowling Alley!
Looks like your elf on the shelf got a little bowling game set up. Use a Christmas ball ornament and some pine cones and any other Christmas trinkets that you can find. Don’t want to find anything to set up? Grab this cute bowling set from Amazon!
Tied Up In Ribbon
Make it known that your elf has been getting into the Christmas ribbons, bows, and wrapping paper with this funny Elf on the Shelf idea. Use tinsel, garland, bows, ribbon, or string to get your elf wrapped up in some festive holiday decorations.
Falling into the Gumball Jar
Elf is always up to no good! This time he got stuck in the gumball jar, trying to get some out. You can also use the cookie jar for the same elf idea. You can grab all the gumballs you need here!
Taking a Snooze in the Doll’s Bed
That sneaky little elf must have had a long night flying back from the North Pole. The doll bed is just the perfect size for him!
Candy Cane Sleigh
This is an easy one if you have candy canes in the house. Paste them together and wrap elf around it with a pipe cleaner. Create a ramp with white towels or fake snow and let him ride!
Writing on Fruit
I guess Elf got into the markers and started marking up some fruit. This is probably better than when your toddlers get into the markers because at least it’s not ending up on your walls!
Caught in Spiderman’s Web
If you have a boy at home, you’ll definitely want to try this one! You can use plastic wrap – or even leftover spider web from Halloween- to wrap your elf up.
Scaling the Tree
Who needs a rock climbing wall when you can scale a Christmas tree instead? Attach some string, ribbon, garland, or tinsel to the top of the tree and wrap it around your elf to show this little trick.
Robbing the Piggy Bank
Can’t trust that Elf with anything! Especially your money! Hopefully, your kiddos catch him red-handed.
Stealing the Cookies from Santa
Who said the cookies had to all be for Santa? Elfie better save some for Santa or he will get on the naughty list.
Taking a Selfie
Put your cell phone in the elf’s hand and show them taking a selfie. When your child goes through the photos, he’ll see that the elf has taken numerous selfies of himself.
Where’s Elf?
Like a game of Where’s Waldo, maybe Elf is trying to hide out with all his friends. See if your little one can find their elf in the sea of stuffed animals.
Stuck in a Jar
With all these hiding places, he’s bound to get stuck somewhere. Squeeze him into a jar which appears like he won’t be able to get out.
Relaxing in a Bubble Bath
Elves need some relaxation time too! This funny elf on the shelf idea for home is sure to give your kids a chuckle!
Pooping on the rival
Use a Hershey Kiss to show how your elf really feels about your house rivals.
Related Post: Naughty Elf on the Shelf Ideas
Bow climbing
Elf is pretty well coordinated and strong to scale the wall using bows to help.
A Dental Visit
Elf is having a visit from the dentist. Must be due to his sweet tooth and all the Christmas candy he’s been eating.
Turning Eggs into Kinder Eggs
This is a cute elf on the shelf idea for your little ones. Have elf sprinkle some glitter on raw eggs and make them ‘magically’ turn into Kinder eggs or chocolate eggs by the time they return from school! You can do this with other items you can find that magically become edible as well.
Roasting S’Mores
Your elf has gotta eat too! He sure has a sweet tooth!
Playing Hide-And-Seek
Play a little game of hide-and-seek with elf and your kiddos. Leave a note (or even a voice recording if they can’t read yet) in the morning sending your child on a little mission to find him. Lead them throughout the house in places that they may not normally look to find the Elf in the first place.
Under the Weather
Your elf isn’t feeling well today. Make him a makeshift bed with all the medicine and first aid kit close by.
Toilet Paper Switcheroo
Uh Oh! Looks like your elf replaced the toilet paper with some duct tape. That may hurt!
Playing a Game
Elf found some friends to play a game with. Use any card deck or board game you can find to set up a mock game between friends.
Cruising Around with Barbie
If you have a small toy car for your little one’s figurines, this is a great place to let elf cruise around like he’s one of their dolls.
Up, Up, and Away
Turn elf into a super hero, flying high through your home.
Hanging from the Light Fixture
Wrap Elf up with some beads, tinsel, or garland as he hangs from the light fixtures or fan. Just make sure no one turns it on!
Freezing in the Fridge
Elf would be awfully cold in the refrigerator. Make sure you wrap him up in a dish towel as a blanket!
Hanging from the Mistletoe
Check out Elf just spreading the love! What a great place for him to hang out then to sneak a peak at all the smooching going on!
Playing Twister
Your elf is having some fun with his other friends and playing this twister game. Fun For Little Ones offers this FREE PRINTABLE Twister board for your elf. Simply download, print it out, and stick your elf on it.
Gliding Down a Snowy Hill on a Saucer
This reminds me of my childhood! Gliding down a big snowy hill on a saucer! Use a long piece of paper towel to make this work, but just make sure it is strong enough to hold your elf.
Candy Cane Sleigh
What looks more fun than a candy cane sleigh?? This is an awesome elf on the shelf idea.. I kind of want to sit on it myself!
Rollin’ down the stairs
Get Elf laying in an paper towel roll and watch how far he’ll roll!
He Peed!
Whoops. Elf had an accident, but it’s just peas, not pee!
Do You Want to Build a Snowman?
Even if you don’t have a toilet paper roll holder like this, simply stack a few rolls on top of each other for the same effect! If your kids are into Frozen, they will love this Elf on the Shelf idea!
Playing with Play Dough
Having a little fun with the play dough. See what else he can build!
The Gamer
Maybe your elf likes taking your son or daughter’s video games. They’ll just want to make sure Elf isn’t talking to their friends while gaming.
Trapped
Someone’s up to no good again. Guess he got caught by the army men.
Get Baking
Let elf bring over some cookie mix so you can have a fun baking night with the kids.
Falling On His Head
Is elf trying to do hand stands or did he simply fall off the mantle? This is a good reminder not to climb on high things because you could get hurt! I’d also put a bandaid on his head to show that he has a boo-boo!
Related Post: Free printable Elf on the Shelf Notes
Bringing an Activity
Have the elf bring a fun activity that your child can look forward to later that day or after school. You can have them make ornaments, bake Christmas cookies, wrap presents for friends and family, etc.
Marshmallow Catapult
This is actually a fun STEM activity for your little ones. Print out the FREE printable from Natural Beach Living and post it next to your elf. This gives the directions that your child can easily follow. You just may have marshmallows all over your house soon and find them into the new year..
Into the Snacks
Uh oh. Elf got into the snack pantry again!
Gone Fishing
Use some Goldfish and a small stick to make a fishing rod. Elf looks like he’s having a great time!
Movie Night
Elves aren’t always up to no good. Sometimes they come bearing gifts and fun family activities to do! Make it a movie night with this fun elf on the shelf idea.
Making Coffee
I guess elf needs his caffeine kick too.
Promote Kindness
This isn’t a funny Elf on the Shelf idea, but I had to add it because I love this idea. Have your child’s elf leave them some notes for acts of kindness that they can perform. This will really help to bring the meaning of the holiday to light.
Even More Last Minute Elf on the Shelf Ideas for Home
Free Reindeer Poop
This funny last minute elf on the shelf idea is sure to get your kids excited (and laughing!) Simply put your elf with some chocolate chips labeled FREE Reindeer poop! If your elf has a reindeer pet – this idea is perfect!
That isn’t Garland!
This elf idea is perfect for last minute! Grab some toilet paper and decorate that tree!
Elf Tries out his Decorating Skills
This funny last minute elf on the shelf idea takes TP’ng the tree to the next level! If you are brave enough for this task (and clean up) it will make a perfect last minute idea. Just grab some TP and go wild!
Snowflakes in the Bathroom
This elf on the shelf idea is easy peasy! With some TP and scissors, you will have your kids laughing in no time at all! Your snowflakes do not have to be perfect! A few snips of toilet paper will do!
Hide and Seek in the Kitchen
Lying in bed about to fall asleep and suddenly remember you need to move the elf? This last minute idea for your elf is absolutely perfect! Elf hiding in the silverware drawer is simple & easy!
Climbing up Candy Canes
Since it’s Christmas – you are bound to have some candy canes lying around – link them up and have your elf use them to climb whatever mountain they choose!
Elf Caught in the Ice Machine
Looks like Elf was trying to get cool and got himself stuck in quite a predicament! This elf on the shelf idea will be perfect for those last minute nights!
Elf Slumber Party
These Elves are getting all snuggly! If you need a super easy last minute elf idea just snuggle the elves up under a warm blankie! A tiny doll TV will make the perfect addition to their slumber party!
Those are not Elf Treats!
If you are looking for last minute ideas for your elf at home. This idea does the trick! Funny, easy, and super quick! Just have your elf diving into the dog treats to get lots of laughs and giggles!
Building with Legos
Have a lego lover in your house? This last minute elf on the shelf idea is perfect! You can have your elf build a Christmas tree or any other creation you can think of!
A Sweet Candy Message
What’s sweeter (or easier) than a quick and simple message from your elf? Your kids will love finding this sweet surprise when they awake!
A Little Sus
Any Among Us lovers in your family? Your kiddos will love seeing their elf dressed up in this way!
Brown E’s
If you’re looking for a way to add some laughter and light-heartedness to your holiday festivities, take a page from these elves’ playbook and consider introducing a little “brown ‘E'” humor into your Elf on the Shelf tradition. After all, who could resist a smile when they stumble upon such a clever and unexpected surprise?
Taste Testing
This elf got a little hungry on his mischievous night. This last-minute elf on the shelf idea is so simple and easy to put together in just a couple minutes.
Just Hanging Out
This elf is just hanging out waiting on the littles to wake up! If you are looking for a last minute elf on the shelf idea – this one takes the cake! You just need a hanger and your elf! Easy peasy!
Doodling on the Eggs
This last minute elf idea is as hilarious as it is easy! Just draw some faces on your eggs and watch your kids roll in laughter!
Sneaking a Treat
This little elf just couldn’t help himself! He was caught sneaking a treat from the advent calendar! For a last minute idea – this one couldn’t be easier!
Elf Igloo
This little elf was missing the cold North Pole and decided to try and recreate his own chilly residence! The best thing is this little igloo only takes a few minutes to create!
Gingerbread House
This hilarious elf on the shelf idea can’t be beat! A couple slices of bread, some ginger, and one hilarious idea!
A cup of T
A nice toasty cup of Tea is a fun and easy last minute elf on the shelf idea! All you need is a mug and the letter T!
Gamer Elves
These little elves are ready to get their game on! Set the elves in front of the gamer controls and watch the kids excitement when they find them the next morning.
Toasty Elves
The Elves are feeling nice and “toasty”! This last minute elf on the shelf idea only takes a couple toasted slices of bread, with the elves arms shoved through!
I hope you enjoy making these new traditions with your family this year. Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas tradition that will never go out of style, giving your child more magic in the spirit of Christmas.
Use these hilarious Elf on the Shelf ideas to amaze your little ones and make their early Christmas years a memory that will last forever.
