80 Simple Elf Ideas For Toddlers

As the holiday season approaches, the excitement of welcoming our little elf back from the North Pole is palpable in homes with little kids.

The Christmas Elf tradition has become a cherished part of the Christmas celebration, bringing much joy and a good laugh to both parents and children.

If you’re a parent looking to create simple yet fun Elf ideas for your toddlers, you’re in the right place.

Last year, you might have found yourself scrambling for last-minute elf ideas or trying to create an elaborate scene with wrapping paper and lights.

This year, let’s focus on simple, fun ideas that are easy to set up and perfect for little ones. The best part of these ideas is their simplicity, ensuring that you can add extra fun to your holiday season without any stress.

From mischievous antics involving toilet paper rolls to cute setups with mini marshmallows, we’ve got you covered!

Remember, the key to a great Elf experience for toddlers is not in creating an elaborate scene but in the little bit of magic and mischief that makes every morning in December a joy to wake up to. So, let’s dive into these easy and creative elf ideas!

Simple Elf Ideas that are Perfect for Toddlers

In crafting this list of Elf ideas, our primary focus has been on simplicity and suitability for toddlers. Each idea is designed to be easy to set up, avoiding any scenarios where the mischievous elf might inspire little ones to mimic naughty behaviors.

We understand that toddlers are at a stage where they’re keenly observing and often replicating what they see. Therefore, our suggestions on this particular list steer clear of ideas involving toilet rolls unraveling or elves getting into sticky tape mishaps, fun for older kids, but potentially a blueprint for toddler mischief!

For those looking for more cheeky and playful elf scenarios suitable for older kids, be sure to check out our other post dedicated to ‘Naughty Elf Ideas’. It’s filled with creative, funny elf antics that are perfect for a laugh but are best kept for an audience that understands the difference between playful storytelling and real-life behavior.\

Naughty Elf on the Shelf Ideas That Will Make the Whole Family Laugh

Back to our toddler-friendly list – these ideas are all about celebrating the joy and magic of the elf’s arrival, keeping the spirit of Christmas time alive in a delightful, toddler-appropriate way.

Remember, the best elf is the one that fits your family’s style and needs. Whether it’s your first year starting this Christmas tradition or you’re looking to add new elf names to your list, these easy elf ideas are here to make your December 1st to Christmas Eve journey stress-free and filled with joy.

If it’s your first year with the elf – then make sure to pick an elf on the shelf name before you start, using our list of Elf on the Shelf names, or our free Elf name generator.

And don’t forget to share your own elf adventures on social media – your favorite elf scenarios might just be the perfect inspiration for another family looking for simple and creative ideas.

Toddler Christmas Elf Ideas

First up, here are the new ideas updated for 2025

Simple Elf Ideas that are Perfect for Toddlers
Toddler Christmas Elf Ideas
Toilet Roll Reindeer Ride
Elf Hot Air Balloon Adventure
More Fun and Creative Elf Ideas
More Elf Fun

Elf Set Up – Do You Wanna Build a Snowman

Make a simple snowman from toilet paper roll, and add a sign with this iconic phrase from Frozen.

Another version for an invitation to play – your elf gathers a few marshmallows, cotton balls, or tiny pom-poms and sets up a little snowman on the table. Toddlers love spotting the elf “building” something, and it’s such a gentle, magical morning surprise.

Elf Apple Caterpillar

This one is so simple but always gets a giggle. Line up apples and add googly eyes or tiny marshmallow antennae to turn them into a fruity caterpillar. Your toddler will think the elf made a whole new friend overnight.

Googly Eyes on Fruit

Toddlers adore silly faces, so sticking googly eyes onto apples, bananas, or oranges is guaranteed to be a hit. It looks like the elf brought all the fruit to life just to make breakfast more fun.

You can add a little sign for something extra

Elf Jenga

Set up a tiny Jenga tower with the elf sitting proudly next to it. Little ones love seeing toys “playing games,” and it’s a great easy idea you can reuse on more than one night.

Elf Playing Mini Table Football

Create a simple football or foosball setup with the elf “playing” against a toy or another elf. Toddlers get so excited when their elf looks like it’s joined in with their favourite games.

Elf Climbing Wall

Stick a few colourful gift wrap bows or stickers on the wall and position the elf climbing up like a miniature adventurer. It’s a brilliant visual moment for toddlers, which is safe, simple, and full of imagination.

You can also add a sign about elf and safety!

Spaghetti Mess

Your elf sits in a bowl or plate of uncooked spaghetti like it’s having the time of its life. This is a fun sensory-themed idea and super cute for toddlers who love messy play.

Elf with Melted Snowflake

Use cotton buds (or paper shapes) arranged in a snowflake pattern with your elf sitting proudly beside it. Toddlers enjoy spotting patterns and shapes, and this one feels very magical.

You can pair this with some snowflake crafts for toddlers.

Hungry Hippos Treat Game

Set up mini hippo biscuits or little animal treats and pretend your elf had a snack-time game. It’s easy, colourful, and always draws toddler attention.

Elf Hiding in Shoes

Pop the elf into a shoe or boot so only its head or legs are peeking out. Toddlers love “find the elf” moments, and this one couldn’t be easier.

Elf with Silly Egg Faces

Draw cute smiley faces on eggs and sit your elf beside them like it’s been busy playing artist. Little ones think it’s adorable, and it’s a lovely non-messy idea for tiny hands.

Elf Breakfast Surprise

The elves made you breakfast… sort of. They climbed into felt sandwiches and left a note saying ‘Enjoy!’

Melted Snowman Bowl

The elf brought home a snowman… but it melted in the bowl. At least they saved the buttons and stick arms!

The Shoe-Shoe Train

All aboard the Shoe-Shoe Train! The elf gathered every shoe and soft toy in the house for an express ride around the living room.

Pin the Nose on Rudolph

A sweet, interactive toddler activity where the elf sets out a simple Rudolph picture with sticker noses ready to be added. It’s a gentle chance for them to join in with the fun.

You can also pair this with our free printable pin the nose on Rudolph game, so your kiddo can have a chance to play too.

Dog Treats for Santa

If you have pets, your toddler will love this joke. Set out some special dog treats with a note from the elf saying don’t give these to Santa! Afterwards, you could mention that they’re helping Santa remember the animals too to make sure it stays kind, cute, and lovely for little ones.

Elf Painting Session

The elves spent the night having a full-on art class and left their masterpieces across the table. This is a fun activity which your toddler can be invited to join in with when they find it in the morning.

Car Snowman

The elves raided every toy car in the house and arranged them into a gigantic snowman on the floor. It’s surprisingly impressive and took way more commitment than any of us expected at 2 a.m.

Elf Butterfly Drawing

One elf lay down while the other traced around them to create butterfly wings. They even added little decorations to make it cheerful. You can encourage your child to try the same activity and make their own life-size butterfly picture too.

Elf Hammock Time

Hang the elf in a cosy little hammock (face mask hammocks are perfect!) so it looks like it’s relaxing. Toddlers adore seeing the elf being silly and comfy.

Toilet Roll Reindeer Ride

The elves decided to build their very own reindeer… out of toilet rolls. Honestly, it turned out better than it should have, complete with antlers and a little face. They climbed on for a cozy ride around the table like it was the North Pole Express.

Elf Hot Air Balloon Adventure

The elves took to the skies in their festive hot air balloon, although one of them clearly didn’t get the memo about staying inside the basket. They’re hanging on for dear life while still looking oddly cheerful about it.

Sticker Explosion

The elves found the stickers and went completely overboard. They stuck them on themselves, on each other, and all over the floor. Their note says the stickers were “so much fun,” and honestly, the evidence supports that.

Elf Yoga

The elves started their morning with a bit of yoga. One’s nailing the stretches… the other has already given up and fallen over.

Elf Hide and Seek With the Baby Grinch

The elves teamed up with the Baby Grinch for a game of hide and seek. Three Christmas shapes are hidden around the house. Can you find them?

Elf Knitting

This elf took up knitting overnight and is already halfway through a tiny elf scarf. A very productive evening!

Elf With Paw Patrol Rescue Line-Up

The elves teamed up with the Paw Patrol for an emergency Christmas mission. No job too big, no elf too small!

Elf ‘Mechanic’ Under the Toy Truck

This elf decided the Paw Patrol truck needed urgent repairs and went full mechanic mode… tools, chaos and all.

Elf Reading a Story to the Soft Toys

Storytime! The elf gathered every cuddly toy in the house for a cosy bedtime Christmas tale.

Elf ‘Magic Capsule’ Science Experiment

The elves left a mysterious bag and a note: pour in warm water and wait for a special surprise. Christmas magic incoming!

Elf Outfits & Dress-Up

Put your elf in a fun Christmas outfit or dress it up as a reindeer, snowman, or even a baby. Toddlers love anything visual and cuddly, so this is always a winner. These elf outfits are available in many stores at this time of year, just shield your toddlers eyes when they are on display in the shops!

Elf Retirement or Arrival Letter

Don’t forget, if your elf is just arriving (or taking a break), a sweet little letter works perfectly for toddlers. Simple wording, happy feelings, and a calm way to start or end the elf visit.

We have free printable elf introduction letters, and elf goodbye letters that you can use.

Credit and thanks to my friends Luciana, Susan, Stacey and Terrin Terrin for all of these fantastic naughty elf ideas!

More Fun and Creative Elf Ideas

simple elf on the shelf ideas suitable for toddlers

We put together a few more concepts for inspiration and whimsical cuteness…

1. Cozy Blanket Fort

Build a small fort or den for your elf using a handkerchief or a piece of cloth, supported by books or blocks. You can add a tiny flashlight or a small book inside the fort, creating a cozy reading nook or a secret hideaway for your elf.

This setup not only adds a touch of adventure and coziness to your elf’s daily antics but also might inspire your little ones to create their own forts in the living room. It’s a fun, engaging way to spark creativity and imaginative play during the holiday season.

2. Elf Tea Party

Hosting a tea party with stuffed animals – Set up a tea party with your child’s favorite stuffed animals and the elf as the guest of honor. A few cups, some tea bags (or hot chocolate packets), and you’ve got a great elf scene.

3. Snowball Fight

A playful snowball fight with mini marshmallows – Create a fun scene where your elf has a snowball fight using mini marshmallows. This is an easy setup that can bring lots of giggles the next morning.

You could also try making this elf toilet paper snowman, which is a whole lot of fun and very cute.

Helping in baking Christmas cookies – Place your elf in the kitchen with cookie ingredients, as if it’s helping to bake Christmas cookies. It’s a cute idea that can lead to a fun baking activity with your little ones.

5. Reading Time

Reading a favorite Christmas story or dinosaur book – Set your elf up with a book, maybe a Christmas story or a dinosaur book, to encourage a love of reading.

6. Toy Car Racer

Racing toy cars – Let your elf have a bit of fun with toy cars, creating a race scene. It’s a simple yet great way to incorporate your child’s toys into the elf tradition.

7. Christmas Tree Helper

Decorating the Christmas tree – Your elf can be found adding decorations to the Christmas tree, or maybe getting tangled in the Christmas lights!

elf on the shelf decorating mini christmas tree

8. Letter to Santa

Set up a scene where your elf is writing a letter to Santa. Provide a small piece of paper, a mini pen or pencil, and maybe even a tiny desk or table. The elf can be crafting a wish list or reporting on the good behavior of your little ones.

This setup not only adds to the magic of the season but also encourages your children to think about their own letters to Santa. It’s a great idea to spark conversations about gratitude and good deeds during the Christmas time.

elf on the shelf writing a letter to Santa

9. Fishing Adventure

Going fishing with a toy fishing rod – Have your elf ‘fish’ in a blue bowl or sink using a toy fishing rod. It’s a simple and playful scene.

10. Bedtime Buddy

Snuggled in bed with a favorite toy – Tuck the elf in bed with your child’s favorite toy or in a cradle with a baby doll. It’s a sweet scene that resonates with little kids.

11. Playful Picnic

Organizing a mini picnic with toy animals – Set up a small picnic scene with the elf, complete with a tiny blanket and some play food. It’s a delightful scene for toddlers, especially if they love outdoor adventures.

12. Superhero Adventures

Dressed as a superhero – Dress your elf in a mini superhero costume and create a scene where it’s saving the day. This can be a great way to incorporate your child’s favorite superhero stories into the tradition.

If you want to suspend the elf above a block city like this, use clear string to set up the scene.

13. Crafting Time

Busy with simple crafts – Place your elf amidst a setup of easy crafts, like cutting shapes from colored paper or assembling a simple gingerbread house. This can inspire your toddler to engage in holiday crafting.

You could even make this fun elf on the shelf craft together.

14. Hide and Seek

Hidden in an unexpected spot – Hide your elf in a new spot each day, like inside a coffee cup, under a pillow, or peeking out from a shelf. It turns each morning into a fun game of hide and seek.

15. Stargazing Elf

Looking through a makeshift telescope – Set your elf up with a toilet paper roll turned into a telescope, looking at the stars or out the window. It’s a charming and easy setup.

16. Laundry Day Fun

Helping with the laundry – Place the elf in a laundry basket, surrounded by small clothes or shelf accessories. It’s a cute way to include everyday chores in the elf’s adventures.

17. Train Conductor

Driving a toy train – Set your elf as the conductor of a toy train set. It’s a simple idea that can be a great way to play with your child’s train set in a new and fun way.

18. Tangled in Christmas lights

For a humorous setup, entangle your elf in a string of mini Christmas lights (or use a small piece of yarn decorated with beads to resemble lights). Position the elf as if it was in the midst of decorating and got a little wrapped up in the process.

This playful scenario adds a bit of comic relief to the Elf tradition and is a great reminder of the fun and sometimes messy side of holiday preparations. It’s an easy and funny idea that’s sure to bring smiles and laughter to your family each time they see it.

elf on the shelf tangled in christmas lights

19. Yoga Instructor

Practicing elf yoga – Pose your elf in a simple yoga position, maybe with a piece of paper as a yoga mat. It’s a fun way to promote physical activity in a playful manner.

20. Artist at Work

Painting a masterpiece – Set your elf up with a tiny easel and some paint. This scene can encourage your toddler to explore their artistic side.

elf on the shelf artist painting with canvas

21. Sleepover Fun

Having a sleepover with other toys – Arrange a sleepover scene with the elf and other toys, complete with a tiny blanket and pillow. It’s a cozy and adorable setup.

22. Cotton Ball Snowman

Set up a scene where your elf is in the process of building a snowman using cotton balls. Arrange the cotton balls to form a small snowman, and you can add tiny accessories like a scrap of fabric for a scarf, a small piece of orange paper for the nose, and beads or buttons for the eyes and mouth.

This activity not only brings the winter wonderland indoors but also offers a tactile experience for your toddler. It’s a great way to involve them in a fun, hands-on activity, where they can help the elf build the perfect little snowman. This idea adds a touch of winter magic to your home and is a delightful way to celebrate the festive spirit of the season.

elf on the shelf making snowman from cotton balls

23. Beach Day

Relaxing on a mini beach – Create a small beach scene with sand (or sugar), a piece of cloth for the sea, and the elf lounging on a tiny towel. It’s a fun way to bring a bit of summer into the winter season.

24. Musician Elf

Playing a tiny instrument – Set your elf up with a small instrument, like a guitar or a flute, as if it’s giving a concert. This can be a great way to introduce musical elements to your child.

elf on the shelf conducting an orchestra of toys

25. Fitness Trainer

Leading a mini workout – Pose your elf with some small weights (like buttons or beads) for a workout scene. It’s a playful way to promote healthy habits.

elf on the shelf lifting mini marshmallow weights

26. Puzzle Master

Completing a jigsaw puzzle – Set up your elf with a small puzzle, either in the process of completing it or triumphantly placing the last piece. It’s a fun way to encourage problem-solving skills.

27. Miniature Camping

Camping in the living room – Create a camping scene with the elf, using a small tent (made from a handkerchief or paper), and a pretend campfire. It’s a cute way to bring the outdoor adventure inside.

28. Elf Magician

Performing a magic trick – Dress your elf as a magician and set up a small magic trick scene, like pulling a rabbit (or a small toy) out of a hat. It’s a playful way to spark your child’s imagination.

29. Little Librarian

Organizing a bookshelf – Have your elf arrange miniature books or your child’s favorite reads on a shelf, acting as a little librarian. This can be a subtle encouragement to read more books.

30. Game Night

Arrange a playful scene where your elf is engaged in a board game or chess match with other toys or stuffed animals. You can use a mini chess set or create a simple board game setup with a piece of paper.

This idea is not only adorable and easy to set up but also a wonderful way to introduce your child to the fun of board games. It’s a perfect scene to depict on a cozy December evening, bringing a sense of togetherness and friendly competition to your Elf tradition.

elf on the shelf playing chess with teddy

31. Gardener Elf

Watering house plants – Set up your elf with a tiny watering can, tending to the house plants. It’s a sweet way to introduce the concept of caring for plants.

32. Elf Astronaut

Exploring outer space – Create a space scene with your elf dressed as an astronaut, maybe using foil for a space suit, exploring around a ‘moon’ made from a grey ball or a crumpled piece of paper.

elf on the shelf astronaut with homemade foil suit

33. Builder Elf

Constructing with blocks or Legos – Have your elf build something with toy blocks or Legos. It’s a great way to show your child that the elf enjoys playing just like they do.

34. Elf Ballerina

Dancing ballet – Pose your elf in a ballet position, maybe with a tiny makeshift tutu. It’s a charming scene, especially for kids who love dancing.

35. Little Detective

Solving a mystery – Set up a detective scene with your elf holding a magnifying glass, looking for clues. It’s a cute way to engage your child’s curiosity.

elf on the shelf detective with magnifying glass

36. Elf Mechanic

Fixing a toy car or toy boat – Have your elf ‘work’ on a toy car or boat with mini tools. It’s a creative way to include your child’s toys in the elf’s adventures.

37. Hot Chocolate Time

Create a cozy scene where your elf is enjoying a tiny mug of hot chocolate. You can use a small thimble or a doll-sized cup as the mug.

Add extra charm by placing mini marshmallows (real or crafted from bits of paper) on top.

This setup not only looks adorable but also resonates with the comforting, warm feelings associated with the holiday season. It’s a wonderful way to incorporate a favorite winter treat into your elf’s adventures and might even inspire a family hot chocolate night!

38. Candy Cane Hunt

A scavenger hunt for candy canes – Hide candy canes around the house and let your little elf lead a candy cane hunt. It’s a simple idea that brings big smiles and fits perfectly into the holiday season.

39. Dress-Up Fun

Create a delightful scene where your elf is trying on different doll clothes. You can set up a mini wardrobe or simply lay out an assortment of tiny outfits. This idea is not only adorable but also encourages imaginative play.

It’s a fantastic way for your toddler to see their favorite elf participating in the same activities they enjoy, like dressing up dolls or stuffed animals. Plus, it’s a great opportunity for parents to snap a cute photo for their social media, sharing their elf’s latest fashionable choices!

40. Sleepy Elf

Napping after a busy day – Show your elf taking a nap, maybe with a small pillow and blanket, to depict the end of a fun-filled day. It’s a simple and adorable idea.

easy elf on the shelf ideas for toddlers, non messy, non naughty wholesome elf on the shelf ideas

Don’t forget to send an elf goodbye letter when it’s time for the cheeky elf to leave, ready for Christmas Day.

The Elf tradition is a fantastic way to add a little mischief and a lot of joy to the Christmas season. These simple elf ideas are great for toddlers and can be easily set up with everyday items.

Remember, the spirit of this tradition lies in creating special memories and not in the complexity of the setup. So this December, let your creativity shine with these fun and easy ideas. Happy Holidays and enjoy the magical moments with your family elf!

More Elf Fun

Looking for more elf inspired fun to share with your little ones? You’ll love these easy elf activities this Christmas

Some of our elf scenes are created by the In The Playroom team x Dall-e 3 for inspiration purposes. If you would like to feature any of these scenes on your website or social media, please credit with a back link to this article.

non-naughty elf on the shelf ideas that are wholesome and clean

In The Playroom

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Anna Marikar, mum of four and seasoned blogger, has spent over a decade sharing her parenting journey and passion for kid-friendly crafts and free printables.
Her easy-to-follow craft ideas and practical parenting advice have transformed In The Playroom into a cherished resource for parents.