articles

Everything Elf on the Shelf

Tips + Ideas + Fun ways to manage that darn Elf this Holiday Season!

By Mary Englin, Publisher November 28, 2020

In all honesty - we are not an Elf on the Shelf family and I'm just a little ashamed to say how happy it makes me that my kids are bit old for this tradition.  

However it takes a village and if you've got a frisky Elf in your house, we parents and caregivers need to stick together.  

Yup, West Seattle Mac Kid has your back bringing all things Elf!

For those of you thinking of starting the tradition, here's what Wikipedia has to say about that feisty Elf on the shelf and it's origins: 

"The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition is a 2005 children's picture book, written by Carol Aebersold and her daughter Chanda Bell, and illustrated by Coë Steinwart. The book tells a Christmas-themed story, written in rhyme, that explains how Santa Claus knows who is naughty and nice. It describes elves visiting children from Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve, after which they return to the North Pole until the next holiday season. The Elf on the Shelf comes in a keepsake box that features a hardbound picture book and a small scout elf. The authors say the story is from a family tradition started by Carol Aebersold for her twin daughters, Chanda Bell and Christa Pitts in Georgia, USA."

Ok, you've been warned.  Now lets get to that help!


Free Christmas Elf Printables

  • Behavior Meter - make elf surveillance super easy this year with a printable behavior meter to add to your seasonal shenanigans.
  • Scavenger Hunt and Goodbye Letter - if your elf is staying in one place this year, the kids can still be on the go. 

  • Elf on the Shelf Planning Calendar - for those who are creativity depleted (We get it, it's 2020 and we're here for you!)



Introduce Your Kids to the Kindness Elf This Holiday Season

Random acts of kindness can help your kids remember the reason for the season.











A New Mission for Your Elf on the Shelf

Santa Smiles will give your child the mission of spreading cheer throughout the season.



Find your family fun® with Macaroni Kid! 

SUBSCRIBE for your FREE Calendar of LOCAL kid & family friendly events ONLINE Fun!