Our elf has declared that the floor is lava. Luckily, he has found a book to sit on while he works out his escape route! 🌋
A few more books make tiny islands across the rug. The flames are only paper, but our elf seems to be taking the whole expedition very seriously.
This funny elf idea is a miniature version of the familiar game. The scene belongs to your elf; you can make a separate cushion version for the children in the morning.
What you’ll need:
- One official Elf on the Shelf doll (paid link)
- A few closed books with sturdy covers
- Red and orange craft paper (paid link) or scraps you already have
- A little card or folded paper for the flame bases
- Tape
- Paper for a small sign
Setup:
Place a few closed books on the rug, leaving small gaps between them. Arrange your elf on the first book with his whole body supported, letting one leg drape over the edge if it stays in place. Cut simple flame shapes from red and orange paper and tape them to small folded bases so they stand beside the book islands. Add a “Floor is lava!” sign where the children will spot it. You can show the elf trying to reach the next book without making him hover in mid-air. The books are stepping stones for the doll, rather than a route for people to stand on. If the children want their own game, use cushions on a clear floor afterwards.
Make it cheaply:
Use books and scrap paper already at home. The inside of an old envelope makes a sign, and coloured pencils can turn plain paper into flames. For a very quick version, put your elf on one book beside the sign and scatter a couple of flat paper flames nearby. There is no special prop set needed for this adventure.
Try the indoor kite tangle or the homemade marble run for another elf scene.
