Afterthinking about the things that mean Christmas is coming for me (read post here). I wanted to start some traditions that would symbolise Christmas is on its way for Miss M too. And, not just be about the amount of presents under the tree.
I want her to get excited in the weeks running up to Christmas – because really isn’t that the best bit So,here’s part one of our the new traditions we’re starting this year for her:
Elf on the Shelf
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| Box set includes Elf and Book |
If you’re not on Instagram or Pinterest this American tradition may have passed
you by. That’s where I first saw it back last November – but actually didn’t get around to buying one until January this year.
Basically, the Elf on the Shelf is a scout elf sent by Santa just after the American holiday Thanksgiving (late November) to check on your children and help him manage his naughty and nice lists.
Their mission? To head back to the North Pole each night and report back to the man in the red suit. Then the next morning the Elf is found in a different place and position in the house. However the Elf cannot be touched, otherwise it will lose its magic The Elf returns to the North Pole on Christmas Eve, and will return again the following year.
After buying the Elf you’re encouraged to adopt and name it online. This then means you can print off an adoption certificate (a bit like adopting Cabbage Patch Dolls in the 1980’s except you had to send away for one) and you also receive a letter from Santa.
OK, I admit it may seem mad to spend in excess of £35 for a doll that comes out one month of the year – but, its about creating a little Christmas magic – right?
Although, I’m sure a lot of parents use it for ‘the Elf is watching you, he will tell Santa’ abilities to encourage good behaviour. But, I have a toddler so that’s not really going to cut-it! She barely listens when I call her name…
But, really if I’m honest I can’t wait to set up little Christmas scenes for Miss Marnie to find the next day. Because that’s the BIG thing about Elf on The Shelf. The festive scenarios that you set up and share – maybe they’re really for the parents, ummm?
Over on Pinterest there is literally thousands of ideas – some funny, some sweet, some very naughty and some genius (really where do people find the time?). I mean it’s not like we don’t have enough to do in December – we add this to our list! But, hey-ho all in the name of Christmas spirit!
Here are a few of my favourites from Pinterest for toddlers:
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| picts: pinterest |
And, if Elf on the Shelf is not your thing (and I know people either LOVE or HATE it!) but you still think it’s quite cute you might like these seasonal pieces from Pottery Barn Kids. The whole collection sold out really fast last year…
1) PJ’s £24.20 (2-10 yrs) – Can also be personalised.
2) Tumbler set £7.82
3) Pate set £9.31
4) Flannel sheet set £12.29 – £88.63
Or, maybe this Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition Gone Bad Book £9.99 – A parody book for mums and dads is more your thing?
And, of course it’s all about the pict sharing. I will be Instagraming our Elf with the hashtag #elfontheshelfbuddies
Take a look and why not join in?
