I’m excited to share some elf essentials for a magical holiday! Beginning the Elf on the Shelf tradition when our kids were young was a decision we made with a touch of reluctance. Little did we know that our elf, “Jingle” would become a fun addition to our holiday celebrations. He certainly adds an extra sprinkle of magic to the Christmas season. We’ve made it a point to tie in the true meaning of Christmas by placing our elf near the nativity scene or playfully hidden around the Christmas tree. Over the years, this tradition has become a cherished part of our family festivities.

Jingle usually arrives just after Thanksgiving. Our elf’s nightly antics are delightfully simple—changing locations and occasionally leaving a surprise for the kids to discover. While we’ve discovered that less is often more when it comes to elf treats, the real secret to keeping the excitement alive lies in the collection of elf accessories.

Here’s a short list of must-haves that have become staples in our Elf on the Shelf repertoire:

1. Elf Clothing: Dressing our elf in miniature outfits is a game-changer. Whether it’s a tiny Santa suit or elf-sized PJs, the clothing adds an extra layer of charm to our elf’s nightly escapades.
2. Elf Props: A miniature sleigh has become a perennial favorite, perfect for when our elf decides to take Santa’s ride for a spin. Tiny, festive ornaments also make regular appearances, transforming our Christmas tree into a magical scene overnight. This is also great for the entire month of December!
3. Sweet Treats: While we don’t indulge every night, having candy canes and Hershey’s Kisses on hand allows our elf to surprise the kids with occasional treats, turning a regular morning into an extra sweet start to the day.
4. Mini Nativity Set: As a special touch, we’ve gifted our kids a small nativity set one Christmas. Our elf occasionally takes a break from mischief to admire the nativity scene, subtly reinforcing the true spirit of the season.
5. Reusable Decorations: From tiny signs to mini gift boxes, reusable decorations are the backbone of our elf’s toolbox. These versatile items allow for endless possibilities without the need for constant repurchasing.

Incorporating these elf essentials for a magical holiday has made it memorable part of our holiday festivities. Each year, the collection of elf-approved accessories keeps the magic alive year after year. After all, it’s the simple things that transform the holiday season into a truly magical experience for the whole family. I’ve linked my favorite elf items below.