7. Get an Elf on the Shelf to do the heavy lifting
Some families take their Elf on the Shelf commitment to the next level, but even employing this pliable doll to do the bare minimum — popping up around the house each day to keep a watchful eye on your kids — is enough to help keep them in the spirit . . . and on their best behavior.
8. Hide gifts as if your life depended on it
If you think shoving shopping bags under your bed is good enough, be prepared to come clean about Kris Kringle. The older the kids get, the more likely they are to uncover your hiding spot in the attic, in the storage room, in the garage . . . wherever. If you can, leave a stockpile of presents at a friend’s house (one who doesn’t have curious kids, either) to pick up the night before.
