Visiting elf idea
Key Bowl Night Watch
The elf sits beside the key bowl with a note that the keys were counted and not collected.
- Everyday
- Entry
- Nice
- No mess
- Household items
- 5 minutes
- Toddler-safe
- Pet-safe
What you need
These are household pieces. Borrow from the junk drawer first.
- sticky note
Search Amazon for sticky note(paid link)
- pen
Search Amazon for pen(paid link)
Paid link — we may earn a commission if you buy.
Affiliate links use tag tinkerdiversi-20 and go to Amazon search results, not a specific product.
How to set it up
- 1
Leave real keys in the bowl. Do not hide them.
- 2
Sit the elf next to the bowl on the entry table.
- 3
Write: Counted. Did not collect. You can still leave the house.
- 4
Keep the bowl where it always is so morning is not a scavenger hunt.
If this night works, try next

Mitten Pair Sleeping Bags
The elf uses a pair of mittens as sleeping bags on the entry bench with a scarf pillow.
Everyday · Entry · Nice · Household items · Toddler-safe
Scarf Tangle Pause
The elf is loosely looped in one scarf on a chair back, paused overnight to get free.
Everyday · Entry · Slightly naughty · Household items · Toddler-safe
Letter Still Sealed
The elf's note to Santa is still sealed, so the morning scene never got underway.
Everyday · Entry · Nice · Household items · Toddler-safe
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