This weekend I’m pulling out and prepping all the Christmas books and activities that we will be using for the next few weeks. One of the things my kids are the most excited about is the return of Jack the Elf!
Last year we did a modified version of Elf on the Shelf and called it Elf on the Shelf Reads Books. The boys looked forward to discovering the elf in a new location each morning and finding a new book to read for the day.
This year we are adding another literacy layer to the fun. Our little elf is going to deliver elf mail!
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Elf on the Shelf Mail Ideas
Each morning my boys will wake to find a clue left by the elf. The clue will lead the kids to the location of the elf for the day.
I made two versions of the mail delivery system. I haven’t decided which one we are going to use because they are both so cute.
Clipboard
Cut a small piece of a corrugated cardboard box cut into a rectangular shape. Decorate it with red and green masking tape stripes. You could also use washi tape. Attach a small binder clip to the top and you have a miniature clipboard.
Canister
Eat the contents of a small canister of M&M’s. Remove the label and create your own label on a blank mailing label sticker. Decorate with Christmas stickers and attach to the canister. You may need to add clear packing tape to adhere the label securely. You now have a mailing canister.
Each morning I plan to leave a clue on the clipboard or in the canister at the breakfast table. We will read the clue together and then the kids will hunt for the elf. I think this will be a fun way to add a little more reading into our day!
Which version would you use? Do you have an Elf on the Shelf?
Check out our other great Christmas book and activity ideas.
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Alison - The Way He Plays says
Fabulous idea! Use both! It will add a surprise for the boys to discover which type of mail the elf leaves each day!
Jodie Rodriguez says
I like that idea Alison!
Susen @ Dabbling Momma says
you’re right both are so cute! I love the m&m tube idea cause it’s small, like the Elf, and you could put a cute small little note/hint inside! I’m sure your boys will have a blast either way!!
Jodie Rodriguez says
They are super excited about the return of Jack tomorrow!
Stacey says
Our girls are 8 and 11 and believe it or not, this will be our first year with an Elf on the Shelf. I am so forgetful and I have been so worried that I would forget but my youngest has worn me down. She thinks the elf just doesn’t want to come here! So… I am loving these idea! Thank you!
Jodie Rodriguez says
Thanks Stacey. Hope you have fun with it this year.
Dionne says
To remember ‘managing’ the Elf on the Shelf, Set a reoccurring alarm on your smart phone in the evenings- if you have one. 🙂
Enjoy!