24 Elf on the Shelf ideas for clueless parents

Elf on the Shelf is now a very popular Christmas tradition for a lot of families. Each night the sweet and sometimes naughty little elf is hidden by parents or carers for children to find in the morning.

Every year the hiding places for the elf get more and more imaginative, from freezing the elf, to being put in a toasted sandwich and even the elf having a bubble bath! However, it can be tricky to come up with 24 different ideas in the run-up to Christmas.

READ MORE: Cardiff's Winter Wonderland 2022: Rides, prices, food and drink and everything else you need to know

Here is our handy guide, so you never run out of places to hide your elf friend.

1. The floor is lava elf

The elves are escaping the lava (Daily Record)

Everyone loves this classic game.

2. Elf in a balloon

Can you squeeze your elf into a balloon? (Daily Record)

The children will have fun figuring out how to free the elf.

3. Elf causes mischief

This elf got a bit caught up.

4. Elf gets trapped

Let them in!

5. Freeze the elf

Stop right there elf.

6. Taking over the sofa

(South Wales Evening Post)

The elf really likes to make the sort of mess the children get told off about and they like to be joined by their friends.

7. Making snow angels

(South Wales Evening Post)

It is not just the children who enjoy making angels in the snow.

8. Hanging out on the lampshade

Look up! (@life.littles.and.lunch)

This might take a bit of searching for.

9. Kidnapped!

Elf on the Shelf is a Christmas trend (Daily Mirror)

You never know where you are going to find the Elf when you get up in the morning.

10. Wrapped-up elf

Wrap up your elf and pop them under the tree (@whitney_howe)

The best part about Christmas is the presents, right?

11. Toasted Elf

Your elf will stay toasty and warm here (@karendrewtv)

Make sure you don't eat this sandwich.

12. Jenga-playing Elf

Don't let it fall! (@elfontheshelflatam)

The elves will need good balance.

13. Toasting marshmallows Elf

A sweet treat for the Elf too! (@giftandgraze)

Elves can join in the fun too.

14. Taking an 'elfie Elf

But first, let me take a elfie (@giftandgraze)

Time to snap a pic.

15. House Party Elf

But who will do the tidying up? (South Wales Evening Post)

The elves know how to throw a good party.

16. Leafy Elf

Bringing some nature to Elf on the shelf (@elfontheshelflatam)

Elves need fresh air too.

17. Cheeky bubble bath Elf

Let the Elf enjoy a splash free dip (@lemonademom4)

Make sure you don't need the slow cooker for this day!

18. Elf in the shed

What a handy elf! (@maternelle.de.bambou)

Tackling some DIY.

19. Elf in the fridge

It might be a bit chilly! (@elfontheshelf)

This elf fancied a snack.

20. Shoe Elf

A perfect hiding place! (@faithmichaels)

The elves are Christmas party ready.

21. Gone fishin' elf

Will they catch anything?

22. Elves love sweeties

There is nothing better than a sweet treat (South Wales Evening Post)

They LOVE sweeties and chocolate biscuits.

23. Climbing Elf

This elf is reaching great heights (@prettylittle_pages)

What an adventurous elf.

24. Wreath Elf

A very festive hiding spot (@blooms.at.no10)

The best Christmas spot.

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