27+ Elf on the Shelf Classroom Ideas to Make the Holidays Extra Magical πβ¨
The holiday season is the perfect time to infuse some extra fun and creativity into your classroom, and what better way to do that than with Elf on the Shelf?
This delightful holiday tradition can be used in so many imaginative ways to keep students engaged and excited about learning.
Whether you’re a teacher looking for fresh ideas or a classroom parent wanting to join in the holiday spirit, here are 27+ Elf on the Shelf classroom ideas that will surely bring joy, laughter, and learning to your students’ days. π π
1. Elf’s Grand Entrance π
Kick off the holiday season with the elf’s grand arrival!
Let the elf bring a special note for the class, announcing its arrival and setting the stage for a month of magical adventures.
You can have the elf arrive with a gift for each student, or even just a cute message introducing its mischievous behavior! ππ
2. Classroom Door Decoration π¨
Transform your classroom door into a festive masterpiece!
Decorate it with colorful holiday designs, and let the elf help make it extra magical by leaving a note or even sitting on the doorframe, ready for the big reveal.
Your students will love the cheerful atmosphere right from the start! π π
3. Classroom Rules Reminder π
Elf on the Shelf isnβt just for funβitβs also a great way to reinforce classroom rules!
Set the elf near a list of expectations and have it βhelpβ the students remember the importance of respect, kindness, and good behavior.
You could even have the elf βgradeβ their efforts! β¨π
4. Kindness Notes π
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the holiday season is kindness, and your elf can help spread it!
Each day, have the elf leave little notes encouraging random acts of kindness among students.
These can be simple messages like, “Help a friend with their work today!” or “Give someone a compliment.” πβ€οΈ
5. Reading to the Class π
Set up the elf with a holiday-themed book and have it “read” to the class, surrounded by a circle of stuffed animals or holiday decorations.
Students can take turns reading with the elf or enjoy the story while sipping on hot chocolate! πβπ
6. Writing Letters to Santa βοΈ
Encourage students to write letters to Santa by having the elf deliver them!
Students can pen their wish lists, and the elf can then take the letters to Santa each night.
A perfect activity to get students into the holiday spirit while practicing their writing skills. β¨π
7. Math Problems π²
Mix learning and holiday fun by placing the elf near the whiteboard with math problems written on it.
Have the students solve the problems to find out what the elf has hidden for them next!
Use math challenges with festive themes to add extra joy to your classroom. πβοΈ
8. Spelling Test Helper π
Place the elf in the middle of a spelling test!
Students will be excited to see their little elf helping them out or even having fun with the words.
You can also use the elf to create spelling challenges, like spelling holiday words. β¨π
9. Art Supplies Delivery ποΈ
Let the elf bring fresh art supplies for a class project!
Whether itβs new markers, glitter, or construction paper, the elf can deliver them with a big bow and a note to start a holiday art activity. π¨ποΈ
10. Science Experiment π¬
The elf isnβt just a troublemakerβitβs also a science enthusiast!
Set up a simple science experiment with the elf as the βscientist,β like making a volcano or an erupting snowman.
Students can gather around and observe the fun holiday experiment! π§ͺπ¨οΈ
11. Scavenger Hunt π§©
Organize a holiday-themed scavenger hunt, with the elf leaving clues each day to guide the students toward a hidden prize.
Students will love the challenge of finding what the elf has hidden! ππ
12. Treasure Hunt π
Have the elf create a treasure map leading to a hidden surprise!
It could be a basket of treats, extra recess time, or holiday-themed prizes.
A great way to combine problem-solving skills with festive fun. πΊοΈπ
13. Bulletin Board Messages π
Turn your bulletin board into an interactive activity with the elf!
Place daily messages or holiday jokes that the elf leaves for the class, helping students start each day with a smile. ππ
14. Photo Booth πΈ
Set up a photo booth with holiday props and let the elf encourage students to take silly pictures with their friends.
A fun way to create lasting memories of the season! π·π
15. Snow Angel in Flour βοΈ
For a simple yet magical moment, have the elf make a snow angel in a pile of flour or powdered sugar.
Students will love the surprise and can even join in by making their own snow angels. π¨οΈπ
16. Zip Line Adventure π’
Create a zip line for your elf to travel across the classroom!
Suspend a piece of string between two points, and let the elf glide across to greet the students every morning. ππ
17. Marshmallow Bath π
Give the elf a marshmallow bath!
Fill a small bowl with mini marshmallows and place the elf inside for a cozy and whimsical scene.
Perfect for a little fun and relaxation. πβοΈ
18. Snowman Craft β
Have the elf start a snowman craft project for the class!
Set up a small area with craft supplies and let students complete the project.
The elf can help guide them along the way. βοΈπ¨
19. Snowball Fight βοΈ
Create a playful snowball fight scene with the elf and the class’s toys.
Use cotton balls or soft paper balls as snowballs for a lighthearted classroom activity. βοΈπ§Έ
20. Snowflake Making βοΈ
Encourage students to make paper snowflakes by placing the elf nearby, working on one of its own.
Itβs a creative and crafty way to celebrate winter! βοΈπ
21. Kindness Calendar π
Create a kindness calendar with the elf highlighting daily acts of kindness.
This activity encourages positive behaviors in your classroom and spreads holiday cheer! πβ€οΈ
22. Good Deed Jar π¬
Set up a jar where students can add notes about good deeds theyβve witnessed or done.
The elf can encourage students to keep the holiday spirit alive by completing acts of kindness! ππ
This holiday season, let the elf bring not only fun but also meaningful lessons that will stick with your students long after the holiday break!
Whether it’s fostering kindness, reinforcing learning, or just having a little holiday mischief, these ideas are sure to make your classroom feel extra festive. π π