It is time for the arrival of the Elf on the Shelf and all the fun an antics they get up to over Christmas. Although there are lots of props available, there will still be occasions when you need a super quick and easy elf on the shelf ideas. You might have forgotten and left it to the last minute or just used up all your props and current ideas. So let me help you with our guide to the simplest DIY Elf on the Shelf ideas, that you can do at home without using ANY props! I do also have a 24 day planner including FREE ELF PRINTABLES to download to make the Christmas elves as easy as possible. I have compiled a list of the easiest Elf on the Shelf ideas for 2023, that are super easy and simple to set up that don’t require lots props to purchase.
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Your ultimate guide to super quick and Easy Elf on the Shelf Ideas for 2023, they are completely DIY elf on the shelf ideas without the need for props:
Spell out a funny work or childs name in toilet paper
Use squares of toilet paper to spell out a funny word or your child’s name.
Elf story time
Elves love to read, set up your elves reading a story to their toy friends.
Spell out your child’s name in cereal
Spell out your child’s name or your elf’s name in cereal and maybe add a fun festive picture, what about a christmas tree or a snowman.
Write funny messages on toilet roll
Silly messages or Christmas song titles written onto your toilet rolls with a coloured pen are a sure way to bring a smile to your children’s faces. Here are some ideas:
- All I want for Xmas is POO!
- Have yourself a POOPY little Xmas!
- Rocking around the Xmas PEE!
- Jingle bells, your POO smells!
- Have yourself a merry PIDDLE Xmas!
- Let it go! Let it go!
Elf Snow angels
Make snow angel shapes with your elves by sprinkling round the edge with flour or fake snow.
Elf playing with your child’s toys
Set up your child’s favourite toys to play with the elves, whether its a train track, dolls, action figures or playing a board game.
Hide the elves in children’s shoes or school bag
You could hide the elves in your children’s shoes or school bag, ready to stowaway to school.
Wrap the tree in toilet paper
Wrap the Christmas tree in toilet roll for a fun and easy DIY elf on the shelf idea.
Elves make paper snow flakes
Cut our snowflakes from paper and hang or stick them around the house. Here’s handy instructions for paper snowflakes.
Wrap the elves in Christmas wrapping paper
Wrap up the elves in christmas wrapping paper.
Elves eat Christmas chocolate
Eat some Christmas sweets or chocolates and save the wrappers for the elves. You could always rub some melted chocolate on the elves faces to make them look even naughtier.
Post it note Christmas tree
Stick up post it notes into a fun christmas tree shape. You could always write little messages on them too.
Elves hiding in a snack tube
This one does require cutting a hole in a snack tube, but it is totally worth the effort! Cut a hole to show the elves faces.
Stuff pyjamas with cuddly toys
Grab a pair of pyjamas and stuff them full of cuddly toys to make a funny scene.
Make a mess
Squirt some ketchup in the kitchen, scatter some cereal or flour on the floor.
Elf Movie Time
Set the elves up ready to watch a christmas movie with your child, even add some popcorn.
