Visiting elf idea
Paper Chain Mantel Helper
The elf holds the end of a short paper chain on the mantel as if it spent the night linking loops.
- Everyday
- Tree & mantel
- Nice
- Low mess
- Household items
- 15 minutes
- Toddler-safe
- December 17

What you need
These are household pieces. Borrow from the junk drawer first.
- construction paper
Search Amazon for construction paper(paid link)
- tape
Search Amazon for tape(paid link)
- sticky note
Search Amazon for sticky note(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
Cut a handful of paper strips and put scissors away.
- 2
Tape five to eight loops into a short chain.
- 3
Drape the chain along the mantel.
- 4
Sit the elf holding the last open loop with a sticky-note helper sign.
If this night works, try next
Christmas Card Mantel Mail Room
The elf sorts a small stack of Christmas cards on the mantel like a tiny overnight post office.
Everyday · Tree & mantel · Nice · Household items · Toddler-safe
Ornament Count, Twice
The elf shows two columns of tally marks and a note that counting the tree used up the night.
Everyday · Tree & mantel · Slightly naughty · Household items · Toddler-safe
Ornament Box Archivist
The elf sorts tissue in an empty ornament box on the mantel and posts a tiny archive card.
Everyday · Tree & mantel · Nice · Household items · Toddler-safe
Unofficial. Not affiliated with The Elf on the Shelf® / CCA and B, LLC / The Lumistella Company.
