Our elf has left a Christmas Eve handbook. Apparently we are being trusted to carry on without him. 📋
Stockings, Santa’s snack and bedtime: he has remembered the important bits.
This elf goodbye idea gives the children a simple illustrated handover.
What you’ll need:
- One official Elf on the Shelf doll (paid link)
- Craft paper for the Christmas Eve handbook (paid link)
- Pens or colouring pencils
- Thin card, tape and a back support
Setup:
Fold a broad strip of paper into three panels. Draw a stocking on the first, Santa’s refreshments on the second and a bed on the third. Add short instructions that fit your family’s routine, such as “Hang your stocking”, “Leave Santa a snack” and “Get a good night’s sleep”.
Stand the folded handbook beside your supported elf and rest one mitten on the top edge. Put “Christmas Eve handbook” on a separate title card, with a short thank-you message from the elf.
Read the steps together as his final helpful job. The children can add a tick or a drawing when each one is ready. Finish with your family’s farewell before putting the elf away overnight.
Make it cheaply:
Use an old envelope opened flat or three scraps taped together instead of bought paper. Stick to pencil doodles if there are no colouring supplies. The handbook can be one plain sheet divided into three boxes.
Browse more elf goodbye and leaving ideas for your next scene.
