Have Fun with Elf on the Shelf!

December 25, 2012

Some of you have probably heard about the new Christmas tradition, The Elf on the Shelf. But for those of you that haven’t, check it out! You can buy the elves at your local Barnes & Noble or Target. The kit comes with a boy or girl elf and the hardback story book The Elf on the Shelf. Give the elf a name, read the book, and then sign the certificate in the back of the book dating when the tradition officially began in your home. If you’re unfamiliar with this, go to the website. It has fun games and information regarding welcoming the elf into your family. You can also register your elf on the website and print out the adoption certificate and a letter from Santa for the kids. The idea is that the elf comes to watch your kids' behavior, reports to Santa each day about how they are behaving, and helps count down the days to Christmas.

Our family has adopted an elf, and we named her Julie. Julie watches the kiddos from our Christmas tree during the day, and at night does something naughty or nice. She then goes to the North Pole to give the daily behavior report. I have seen ideas on Pinterest and I've been having fun watching friends and family post their elf’s happenings on Facebook.

Here are just a few things our elf has done each night:

• On Day 1, Julie was in our Christmas tree with a note saying she was here to watch their behavior and that she hopes they slept well.
• When Day 2 came, Julie painted a picture with the kids' toothpaste and toothbrush; it said, "I love painting!"
• Day 3 arrived and they found her playing Candy Land with the other stuffed animals in our house.
• Then on Day 4, she was sick (after my kids came home sick) and had a cold compress on her head, thermometer in her mouth, and was in bed.
• When Day 5 arrived, Julie went to school with one of my kids to watch and make sure he recovered from being ill. Lately, Julie was caught crocheting near the fireplace as she patiently waits for Christmas to get here.

If you don’t have an elf on the shelf, get one and start the tradition with your family today! It’s about making fond memories during this busy season and a way to play with your kids. Check out the picture of our elf, Julie, and then share your ideas or happenings with your Elf on the Shelf!

Bethany M.
Boardwalk Branch