Visiting elf idea
Stock the Elf Bin
A one-time bin of reusable elf props, picked so weeknights can stay a five-minute reach into a closet.
- Everyday
- Anywhere
- Nice
- No mess
- Extra props
- 15 minutes
- Not toddler-safe
- Not pet-safe
- First year
What you need
A couple of extra props help this one. Skip anything you do not already like.
- 24-day elf scene kit
View on Amazon for 24-day elf scene kit(paid link)
- elf doll sleeping bag
View on Amazon for elf doll sleeping bag(paid link)
- felt letter board
View on Amazon for felt letter board(paid link)
- battery fairy lights
View on Amazon for battery fairy lights(paid link)
- elf doll clothes set
View on Amazon for elf doll clothes set(paid link)
- miniature donuts
View on Amazon for miniature donuts(paid link)
- scout elf carrier kit
View on Amazon for scout elf carrier kit(paid link)
- elves at play tool kit
View on Amazon for elves at play tool kit(paid link)
- scout elf soccer props
Search Amazon for scout elf soccer props(paid link)
Paid link — we may earn a commission if you buy.
Affiliate links use tag tinkerdiversi-20. A verified product goes to that Amazon listing. The soccer props stay an Amazon search.
How to set it up
- 1
Put the bin on a high closet shelf. This is a grown-up kit, not a toy box.
- 2
Keep button batteries, resin food, and anything smaller than a fist in a closed pouch inside the bin.
- 3
Pull one or two pieces on a setup night. Leave the rest put away.
- 4
Household stand-ins still win when the bin is across the house: a mug, a napkin, a note.
- 5
Read the choking and pet notes on the lights and the mini food before the first use.
If this night works, try next
Cotton Snow on a Tray
The elf makes a contained snow scene with cotton batting on a tray and a spoon shovel.
Everyday · Anywhere · Naughty · Extra props
Napkin Wrapped Spoon Gift
The elf wraps a wooden spoon in a napkin like a present and leaves it on the hall table.
Everyday · Anywhere · Nice · Household items · Toddler-safe
Mixed-Up Shoes by the Door
The elf sits in a jumble of mismatched shoes by the door as if it spent the night swapping pairs.
Everyday · Anywhere · Naughty · Household items · Toddler-safe
Unofficial. Not affiliated with The Elf on the Shelf® / CCA and B, LLC / The Lumistella Company.