The festive season has officially begun and for many this means the return of the Elf on the Shelf.
The cheeky elves descend each year as a way to keep the little ones entertained - and behaving well - in the run up to Christmas.
Since this year has been different than any other, there’s no doubt some parents will have let the pesky elf slip their minds.
But not to worry, we’ve found some quick and easy Elf on the Shelf ideas you’ll be able to pull together in just a few minutes.
Here are 17 simple Elf on the Shelf ideas to use:
1. The toilet roll snowman
It's quick, its easy and a little bit genius if you're running behind.
All you'll need is a couple of toilet rolls, and a pen if you're in a rush.
If you've got a spare five minutes, you could cut out some shapes and stick them to the toilet roll as above.
2. The cereal box hack
It's 7am, the kids are about to come down the stairs and you've forgotten to set the Elf on the Shelf up.
For a quick and easy hack, all you'll need to do is cut a small hole in the side of one of your cereal boxes - maybe use an almost empty one! - pop your elf's head through for the kids to find.
3. Snowball fight
This one is as simple as scrunching up some plain paper, literally.
Whether you've got one elf or two - or more - this could work, you could simply make the second player yourself or your child.
Scrunch up some paper to make snowballs, leave a note and that's another day done.
4. A hidden treat
All this one requires is a note and some plastic cups - and a small hidden treat, of course.
It's up to you what you hide beneath one of the cups, but it will be worth it when your little one is excitedly looking for it.
5. Elf capture
Does your child have a favourite toy or figure? Why not let them join the fun?
Wrap your elf in some clingfilm and let the toys hold them hostage to keep them from being naughty.
6. Twister
There's no doubt this one will be a hit with the kids.
If you've got a spare five minutes, why not create a makeshift Twister board for your elf? All you'll need is paper and some colouring pencils!
7. Play time
What could be easier than letting the elves have some play time?
Set up some toys in the living room, pop your elf on top and let the kids enjoy.
8. Fruit bowl fun
If you've forgotten to plan your Elf on the Shelf ahead of time, this might be one for you.
Pop your elf in your fruit bowl, grab a pen and write a funny message to the kids before they spot you.
9. Potty time
When you've got to go, you've got to go.
If you're out of time, pop your elf on the potty - or the toilet - and there's no doubt the kids will laugh.
10. Bungee jump
If you've got a spare toilet roll, this simple trick could be the perfect Elf on the Shelf hack.
Drape some toilet roll down your stairs, wrap your elf in some too, and place them on of the staircase.
11. Morning messages
This might be the easier one of all.
If you've got some lipstick hanging around, take a minute to write a note on your bathroom mirror and let your elf take the credit.
12. Let's go fishing
If you caved and got the kids that pet fish they wanted, here's one for you.
Pop your elf on top of the fish tank, add in a chop stick or something similar, add a piece of ribbon and set them off on their first fishing trip.
13. Chocolate time
This one is perfect for anyone who's already broken into their Christmas chocolate.
Whip the top off your Christmas chocs - take some time to eat a few, of course - and leave the wrappers scattered around. Best of all? You can blame the elf.
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14. Hide and seek
The kids will love this one.
Pop your elf inside your washing machine, tell the kids he's playing hide and seek and see how long it takes them to spot them.
15. Climbing elf
All you need for this one is your elf and a cupboard.
Let your elf try to climb inside your cupboards for the day and see what he can cling on to.
16. Christmas tree elf
Sweet and simple.
Pop your lovable elf on a branch of your Christmas tree and let the kids wonder how on Earth he managed to get up there.
17. Getting glammed up
You can do this one as you're getting ready for your day.
Sit your elf down in front of a mirror, add in some makeup brushes and palettes and that's another day done.
