40 Elf on the Shelf Arrival Ideas to Start the Beloved Tradition Off on the Cutest Foot

Updated on Nov 28, 2018 at 11:50 AM

Elf on the Shelf has become a fun holiday tradition the whole family can enjoy. But while you may love seeing how happy your kids get when they find their elves every morning, coming up with clever and fun ideas for an entire month can feel overwhelming, not to mention the very first one to mark the elf's return. You want it to be special and memorable so that it inspires your kids to be on their best behavior for Santa. But where do you start? If you want to start your kids' favorite tradition on the cutest and most creative foot, check out these 40 Elf on the Shelf arrival ideas that are as easy for parents to re-create as they are fun for the kiddos to find. From quick and simple elf antics to elaborate North Pole scenes, we've got you covered.

Have Them Ski in From the North Pole

Have Them Climb Their Way Back Into Your House

Drop Them Through the Mail Slot

Bring the North Pole to Your Home

Have Them Bring Your Kids Individual Cards From Santa

Have Them Travel in by Plane

Have Them Head Straight For the Tree

Have Them Arrive in a Hot Air Balloon

Give Your Elf a High-Tech Arrival

Bring the Cold Weather With Them

Let Them Arrive in Extra Fun Style

Have Them Make Their Own Christmas Tree Out of Post-It Notes

Throw a Disco-Themed Arrival Party

Have Them Build a Gingerbread House

Have Them Ride in on a Reindeer

Let Them Chill Out in an Igloo

Make Them Feel Right at Home

Have Them Wake the Kids Up With Cookies

Build Them a Blimp to Travel On

Let Them Catch the Train

Everyone Loves Opening Packages

Throw a Breakfast Party For Their Arrival

Give Your Elf Luggage From the North Pole on the First Day

Start the Countdown

Have Them Arrive on a Zip Line

Turn Them Into a Present

Make Their Arrival Snowy

Let the Kids Invite Your Elf In

Announce Their Arrival

Start an Advent Calendar the Same Day

Have Them Swing on Down From the North Pole

Keep Things Simple

Let Them Arrive in a Fun, Mischievous Way

Have Them Ride in Style in a Barbie Mobile

Give Them Their Own Door

Let the Kiddos Know Their Name

Build the Elves Their Own Magical Space

Have Them Bring Goodies

Give Them a Reindeer-Powered Sleigh

Let the Kids Know the Elves Missed Them