The holidays are all about tradition. And while most of them have been handed down from generation to generation, there’s one that is fairly new and has become a much-loved part of the holidays — The Elf on the Shelf. The adorable little Elf works for Santa Claus by watching over your children to see if they’ve been naughty or nice, and then reports back to the big man himself each night at the North Pole. But if you’re looking to up your Elf game, these 10 Elf on the Shelf toys can help make the holidays even more magical.
At the core, the Elf on the Shelf is an adorable idea that helps parents create cute and fun bonding moments with their kiddos. After all, you’ll need to think of ways in which your kids will wake up each morning and find their Elf. But since your kid can’t technically touch her Elf for fear of ruining her magical powers, you might want to add on to your Elf repertoire — and these 10 toys can do the trick.
So whether you’re looking to dress up your Elf, give him a mascot (or two), or arm him with some fun ways to show up to your home every day, you’ll find something sweetly simple on this list that your family will treasure for years to come.
The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition
If you’re new to EOTS, this is a great place to start. The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Tradition ($30) set comes with your own Elf and a book to read to your children to explain the Elf on the Shelf and how he reports back to Santa to let him know how nice (or naughty) your child has been.
Scout Elf Joe
If you thought that your Elf was the head Elf in Charge, think again. Scout Elf Joe ($15) works in the North Pole’s Legends and Lore Laboratory, and keeps all of the classified info under wraps. He can keep your Elf company while he tries to take notes on how well your kids are behaving this holiday season.
Elf Pets: A Saint Bernard Tradition
Every hero needs a mascot, and the Saint Bernard is it for the Elf on the Shelf. The Elf Pets: A Saint Bernard Tradition ($25) tells the story of how the St. Bernard puppies help spread holiday cheer to children everywhere. The set comes with a storybook and a St. Bernard puppy (not a real one, natch), that can keep your Elf company.
Claus Couture Donut Be Naughty PJs
Wearing that same red outfit and hat day in and day out can get so boring, honey. So switch up your Elf’s outfit with the Claus Couture Donut Be Naughty PJs ($10). It’ll keep him comfy and cozy—and remind your kiddos to cut down on the sweets during the holiday season.
SEAP Peppermint Plane Ride
Take your Elf on the Shelf to new heights (literally) with the SEAP Peppermint Plane Ride ($15). It inflates quickly and easily and can be used as an impromptu prop when someone (ahem) forgets to move the Elf. It can also explain to little kids just exactly how their Elf flies to and from the North Pole every night and makes it back just in time for morning.
Scout Elves at Play
You want to come up with cool and creative ideas for your Elf on the Shelf, but it can be hard to do it every single day. Enter the Scout Elves at Play ($25), a kit designed to keep your Elf doing magical and mischievous things that will entertain your kids — and doesn’t require a ton of effort or time.
Magic Portal Door and Slide
Your Elf on the Shelf can slide right into the holidays with the Magic Portal Door and Slide ($15). It can help explain how your Elf reappears in your home each morning, making it easier for parents who are looking for a simple Elf idea. Have him slide into a bowl full of marshmallow or cookies, and your kids will love it.
Claus Couture Pastel Polar Princess
Give your Elf girl some glam with the Claus Couture Pastel Polar Princess outfit ($10). It comes with a sparkly bodice and blue ombre tutu for a fabulous look that your Elf (and your child) will love.
Elf Pets: An Arctic Fox Tradition
Sure, Rudolph’s red nose helps to guide Santa’s sleigh, but it’s the Arctic Fox that helps light up the night sky. The Elf Pets: An Arctic Fox Tradition ($32) helps Santa make it around the world delivering presents in one night by making the polar lights glow and stopping time, too.
Elf on the Shelf Pets Reindeer
Every Elf needs a sidekick, and for your Elf on the Shelf, it’s the Reindeer. The Elf on the Shelf Pets Reindeer($42) is the scout elf’s best friend who helps make Santa’s reindeer fly on Christmas Eve. And unlike the Elf on the Shelf, he also happens to be completely huggable.