Easy Elf on A Shelf Ideas For The Classroom & Beyond

Find funny, quick & easy Elf on the shelf ideas for teachers & parents. Get the best classroom ideas for Elf on a shelf to make your class laugh. Read now.  


Elf on the Shelf was, and still is, a crazy phenomenon that took the world by storm. From viral TikTok’s to features on the news, Elf on a Shelf became an overnight sensation as the “it” trend for the festive season, and what better way to keep entertained than using this trend in the classroom? 

We have created a list of some great Elf on the Shelf classroom ideas that will keep the kids engaged and entertained. 

Elf on The Shelf Classroom Ideas 

We have compiled some classroom elf ideas that are sure to entertain. 

Teacher elf-on-the-shelf ideas can be a cost-effective way to keep your class entertained, and the best elf-on-the-shelf ideas don’t have to be complicated. In fact, the best elf ideas for kids are usually the simplest.  

Elf Name Generator  

The best Elf on the Shelf ideas don’t have to be complicated. In fact, the best elf ideas for kids are usually the simplest. One simple idea that could be a funny, entertaining, and simple way to get your classroom’s creativity flowing is to let everyone create an Elf name. 

You could get your classroom to create elf-inspired first and last names. You could create a formula, like the first letter of their first name + birth month = an elf name. 

Elf on the Shelf Classroom Hunt 

A “find the hidden elf, win a prize” event, like Easter egg hunts, is a fantastic, straightforward, and effective idea that kids will love (because they love winning).  

Funny Elf on The Shelf Ideas 

One of the funniest Elf on the Shelf ideas for the classroom is to have an Elf Dress-Up Day. It’s a blast for the kids, and it will be packed with laughs, making it perfect for getting everyone into the holiday vibe.  

Mixing silly Elf on the Shelf ideas with this dress-up day, like an Elf-Themed Spelling Bee, Elf Charades, or even a freeze dance (with holiday music) will create those laugh-out-loud moments that everyone will remember.  

Naughty Elf on The Shelf Ideas 

One of the defining factors of the Elf on the Shelf trend was its naughtiness. Harmless pranks and jokes to adults, but seemingly naughty to kids, was the goal of the trend, which made it even more endearing. 

So, if you are looking for naughty elf suggestions, or even if you’re looking to spruce up your existing ideas for naughty Elf on the Shelf, here are our suggestions. 

Sure thing! Here’s a condensed and upbeat version: 

Toilet Paper Mayhem  

Catch the Elf in the act, rolling out a whole roll of toilet paper across the classroom or covering a desk/chair in TP. Spot them perched atop their handiwork, sporting a cheeky grin. 

Christmas Light Tangle 

The Elf tried lending a hand with the decorations and got all wrapped up in colorful lights. Place them by a mini tree or chalkboard for a festive mishap scene. 

Snow Angel Fun 

A sprinkle of flour on the surface sets the stage for Elf’s snow angel adventure. It’s a cute, controlled mess that brings winter indoors!! 

Quick & Easy Elf on a Shelf Ideas

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If you are looking for simple and inexpensive Elf on the shelf ideas that won’t consume much of your time, take a look at the options below—they’re very classroom-friendly. 

Writing 

An easy, simple, and fast Elf on the Shelf task that will engage the class is a writing prompt. Ask your students to write a story from the perspective of an elf working in Santa’s workshop and what a day in the life of an Elf is like in the North Pole. This also works as a great last-minute elf-on-the-shelf idea, as it requires little to no preparation.  

Drawing 

Another quick and easy Elf on the Shelf idea involves drawing and crafting. You could have students create their own elf hats with construction paper, scissors, glue, etc. For a younger class, you could have them draw and decorate their drawings with cotton balls and glitter. 

Elf’s Riddle of the Day 

One final idea that is sure to be a hit with kids is “Riddle of the Day.” Not only can this last the full month of December, giving the entire class a chance to win, but it will also make them excited to take part in class.  

  • Setup: The Elf can leave a riddle or quiz question on the board or a piece of paper. For example: “What has hands but can’t clap?” (Answer: A clock). 
  • Activity: Students can work in pairs or groups to solve the riddle. You could also make it a daily Elf activity with different riddles each morning! 

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