If you are new to Elf on the Shelf or considering it for the first time, this list may or may not be for you. I was forced into the tradition of Elf on the Shelf. My mother-in-law gifted us the little creature when my daughter wasn't quite three years old. It was annoying to deal with as it was just another thing for us to deal with during the holidays aka our busiest time of year. Then my son was born and became mobile so I realized I was gifted this wonderful incentive to help him behave because no child wants to send a bad report to Santa himself aka the big guy.
My husband and I tend to forget to move our elf so we tell our kids "Annie (or elf) must really like that spot". But, unfortunately, we can't do this for 25 straight days. So I have created the Elf on the Shelf ideas for Lazy Parents who are like me and don’t like messy are super involved mischiefs for their elves to get up to.