The Elf on the Shelf.

My daughter was five last Christmas. While she has some vague recollections of Christmas past, I’d say five was the golden age for memories made (personally, I feel the same for myself). Enter in our family Elf – Flower (affectionately named by her now six year-old owner). She is a carryover from last Christmas – my daughter was panicked over her return (a first: hence, the memory made).

Funny thought on this: a blessing, or a curse?

I know so many parents for whom this is just another thing to have to do. In the weeks leading up to major holidays, it’s burdensome to have to move the elf doll around the house (and wrap gifts, and shop, and cook, and have a fucking minute to breath, etc.). To top that off, kids talk (read my post Mean Girls - it starts really young). So, how can parents make this fun(ny) (versus another holiday chore to do). See some ideas, below….with links to their respective founders.

Three of my favorites, that genuinely don’t seem time consuming! I’m a huge fan of the ‘Elf Quarantine’, as it is a way to explain COVID (and, responsibility) to younger kids. The other two – a way to self-entertain if you’re a little stoned/high/buzzy when the kiddos are in bed (I’d totally place the elf in a highball bar glass).

PS: the elves are a great bargaining chip if your kids are convinced enough (win/win for bedtime, no fighting with siblings, cleaning up their bedrooms, etc.). Seriously, folks, you can use this to your benefit if you’re creative about it.

Full article link: https://www.womansday.com/life/g29515335/elf-on-the-shelf-ideas/

~SM