20+ Simple Elf on the Shelf Ideas For Parents Who Really Just Can't Be Bothered

Whether you're a parent who loves Elf on the Shelf or someone who can't stand the tradition, there's no denying that life can get in the way of creating elaborate settings for your kids to find their elf in every morning. If you're finding it difficult to stay up crafting mini elf scenes until 2 a.m., we've got you covered with some simple, easy Elf on the Shelf ideas that are super quick for you to execute (and clean up!) but will still be fun for the kids.

Read through for some of our favorite elf setup ideas, and hang in there!

01

Help elf make sprinkle angels in a baking sheet.

02

Let elf indulge in a marshmallow bath.

03

Set them up with a favorite story.

04

Hide elf in one of the stockings.

05

Let elf make cotton bud snowflakes on the bathroom counter.

06

Plop elf into the holiday decorations.

08

Throw elf down the stairs in a toilet paper roll.

09

Help elf get the toothbrushes ready for morning.

10

Snuggle elf up before spending a night in the fridge.

11

Tie a toilet paper hammock to the shower curtain rod.

12

Let elf lounge on the couch to write emails.

13

Set elf up with the coloring supplies.

15

Squeeze elf under a glass.

16

Tuck elf between the couch cushions.

17

Hide elf in the Christmas tree.

18

Let elf dive into the sugar bowl.

19

Stand elf up in a shoe.

20

Set elf up with a toy car or motorcycle its size.

22

Have elf set up a shoe conga line.

23

Wrap elf in aluminum foil as a giant Hershey's Kiss.