quick and easy ideas for elf on the shelf
The holiday season is here and that means it’s time to bring out the Elf on the Shelf! If you’re not familiar with this popular tradition, the Elf on the Shelf is a small elf doll that is believed to have magical powers and reports back to Santa every night on the behavior of children. Each morning, the elf is found in a different spot in the house, creating a fun and mischievous game for kids to find him. While this tradition is beloved by many families, coming up with new and creative ideas for the elf can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve put together a list of quick and easy ideas for Elf on the Shelf that will keep the magic alive for your family all season long.
1. Elf on the Shelf Arrival
The first thing you need to do is decide when your elf will make his grand entrance. Some families like to have their elf arrive on December 1st, while others prefer to wait until closer to Christmas. Either way, make sure to create a special arrival for your elf. This could be anything from having your elf fly in on a homemade paper airplane to leaving a trail of candy canes for the elf to follow.
2. Elf on the Shelf Hide and Seek
One of the easiest and most fun things to do with your elf is to play hide and seek. Simply place the elf in a new spot every night and let your kids try to find him in the morning. You can also leave clues for an added challenge. This is a great way to keep the magic alive and get the whole family involved.
3. Elf on the Shelf Snowball Fight
If you live in an area that gets snow, why not have your elf join in on the fun? Create a mini snowball fight scene with cotton balls or marshmallows and have your elf be the referee. Your kids will love seeing their elf getting into the holiday spirit.
4. Elf on the Shelf Baking
Another great idea for your elf is to have him help out with some holiday baking. You can leave out some sugar cookie dough and have your elf leave behind some fun cookie cutters for your kids to find in the morning. Or, have your elf leave a note asking for help decorating the cookies. This is a fun way to get your kids involved in the holiday baking and make memories with their elf.
5. Elf on the Shelf Movie Night
Who says elves can’t enjoy a cozy movie night? Set up a mini movie theater for your elf with some popcorn and a holiday movie. Your kids will love seeing their elf relaxing and taking a break from his duties at the North Pole.
6. Elf on the Shelf Art Gallery
If you have a creative elf, why not have him leave behind some art supplies and create a mini art gallery for your kids to find in the morning? Your elf can even leave behind a note asking your kids to create some holiday artwork to add to the gallery.
7. Elf on the Shelf Toy Takeover
If your kids have lots of toys, have your elf do a toy takeover one night. Your elf can set up a tea party with stuffed animals or create a race track for toy cars. This is a great way to get your kids to play with some forgotten toys and have fun with their elf at the same time.
8. Elf on the Shelf North Pole Breakfast
One way to make your elf’s arrival even more special is to have a North Pole breakfast the morning after he arrives. This could include special holiday-themed pancakes, hot chocolate, and even a note from the elf inviting your kids to join him at the North Pole for breakfast.
9. Elf on the Shelf Science Experiment
If your elf is feeling extra mischievous, have him set up a science experiment for your kids to find in the morning. This could be anything from making a volcano out of baking soda and vinegar to creating a snowstorm in a jar with shaving cream and food coloring. Your kids will love seeing their elf getting into some science fun.
10. Elf on the Shelf Photo Shoot
Get your elf ready for his close-up by setting up a mini photo shoot with him and some holiday props. Your kids can help out by taking the photos and posing with their elf. This is a great way to capture some memories and have some fun with your elf.
11. Elf on the Shelf Treasure Hunt
Another fun idea for your elf is to set up a treasure hunt. Your elf can leave behind clues for your kids to find and lead them to a special surprise, such as a small gift or a holiday treat. This is a great way to get your kids excited and keep them entertained.
12. Elf on the Shelf Game Night
Set up a mini game night for your elf and your family. Leave out some board games or card games and have your elf join in on the fun. Your kids will love seeing their elf getting competitive and having a good time.
13. Elf on the Shelf Spa Day
After a long night of reporting to Santa, your elf deserves a day of relaxation. Set up a spa day for your elf with a mini bath, some cucumbers for his eyes, and a tiny bathrobe. Your kids will love seeing their elf enjoying a day of pampering.
14. Elf on the Shelf Elf Olympics
If your elf is feeling energetic, set up an Elf Olympics for him to participate in. This could include activities such as a marshmallow toss, candy cane javelin throw, and a cookie stacking competition. Your kids will love cheering on their elf and seeing who will win the gold medal.
15. Elf on the Shelf Zip Line
Create a mini zip line for your elf to use to travel from one spot to another. You can use a string or ribbon and some paper clips to create a zip line, and your elf can use a candy cane or straw as a seat. Your kids will love seeing their elf zipping around the house.
16. Elf on the Shelf Photo Booth
Set up a mini photo booth for your elf and your family to take some fun holiday pictures. Your elf can leave behind some props and your kids can use their creativity to come up with some funny poses. This is a great way to capture some memories with your elf.
17. Elf on the Shelf Mini Elf Workshop
Set up a mini elf workshop for your elf to use to make some special gifts for your family. Your elf can leave behind some supplies and your kids can help him create some handmade gifts. This is a great way to get your kids involved in the gift-giving spirit.
18. Elf on the Shelf Elf School
Have your elf leave behind some fun educational activities for your kids to do. This could include a mini spelling or math test, a holiday-themed word search, or even a lesson on how to be a good elf. Your kids will love learning from their elf.
19. Elf on the Shelf Elf Pets
If your family has an Elf Pets toy, have your elf leave behind a note asking your kids to take care of the pet while he’s away. This could include feeding the pet, giving it a bath, or taking it for a walk. Your kids will love having a new responsibility and taking care of their elf’s pet.
20. Elf on the Shelf Elf Bowling
Create a mini bowling alley for your elf to use with some empty water bottles and a small ball. Your kids can join in on the fun and see who can get the most strikes. This is a great way to get everyone involved in the elf’s adventures.
With these quick and easy ideas for Elf on the Shelf, you’ll be able to keep the magic and excitement alive for your family all season long. Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and make memories with your elf. Happy elfing!
printable phone contract for teenager
As a parent, one of the most daunting tasks is to decide when to give your teenager their first phone and how to handle the responsibility that comes with it. With the ever-evolving technology and the importance of staying connected, it is almost impossible to keep teenagers away from cell phones. However, the thought of handing over such a powerful device to a teenager can be quite scary. That is why having a printable phone contract for teenagers can help both parents and teenagers set boundaries and expectations while using a cell phone.
A phone contract is an agreement between a parent and a teenager that outlines the rules, expectations, and consequences related to phone usage. It is a useful tool that can help parents navigate the tricky waters of giving their teenager a cell phone while also teaching them about responsibility and healthy digital habits. In this article, we will discuss the importance of having a printable phone contract for teenagers and the key elements that should be included in it.
Why Have a Phone Contract for Teenagers?
As mentioned earlier, the idea of giving a teenager a cell phone can be overwhelming for parents. Many concerns may arise, such as the fear of their child being exposed to inappropriate content, the possibility of cyberbullying, or the excessive use of the phone. A phone contract can help address these concerns by setting clear guidelines for both parents and teenagers.
Firstly, a phone contract can help establish boundaries for phone usage. With social media, texting, and online gaming, teenagers can easily get lost in their phones and forget about other important aspects of their lives, such as schoolwork and face-to-face interactions. A phone contract can set limits on screen time and establish designated times when phones should be put away, such as during meals or before bedtime.
Secondly, a phone contract can help teach teenagers about responsible phone usage. By outlining the expectations and consequences, teenagers can understand that having a phone is a privilege and not a right. They will learn to take care of their phones, not lose them, and use them responsibly without causing harm to themselves or others.
Lastly, a phone contract can be a great communication tool between parents and teenagers. It allows for an open and honest conversation about the dos and don’ts of phone usage. This contract can be revisited and revised as needed, providing an opportunity for parents to address any concerns or issues that may arise.
Key Elements to Include in a Phone Contract for Teenagers
Now that we understand the importance of having a phone contract for teenagers let’s discuss the key elements that should be included in it.
1. Set Guidelines for Phone Usage
The first step in creating a phone contract is to establish guidelines for phone usage. This includes setting limits on screen time, specifying times when phones should be put away, and outlining appropriate and inappropriate use of the device. For example, texting during class or using the phone while driving should be strictly prohibited.
2. Outline Consequences for Breaking the Rules
It is crucial to include consequences for breaking the rules in the phone contract. This can range from a simple warning to revoking phone privileges for a certain period. Having clear consequences in place will help teenagers understand the seriousness of following the rules and the consequences of not doing so.
3. Emphasize the Importance of Cyber Safety
With the rise of social media and online communication, it is essential to educate teenagers about cyber safety. The phone contract should include guidelines for protecting personal information, avoiding cyberbullying, and being mindful of what they post and share online.
4. Address the Issue of Phone Etiquette
In today’s digital age, phone etiquette is often overlooked. It is important to include guidelines for proper phone etiquette in the contract, such as not using the phone during face-to-face conversations or putting the phone on silent during important events.
5. Set Boundaries for Online Purchases and Downloads
Teenagers can easily get carried away with online purchases and downloads, which can lead to unexpected credit card charges. The phone contract should clearly outline the boundaries for making purchases and downloading apps, games, or music.
6. Discuss the Importance of Taking Care of the Phone
A phone contract should also address the responsibility of taking care of the phone. This includes keeping the phone safe, not sharing the password, and reporting any issues or damages to the parents.
7. Include a Plan for Monitoring the Phone Usage
While a phone contract is a great tool for setting expectations, it is essential to have a plan for monitoring the phone usage. Parents can use parental control apps or regularly check their teenager’s phone to ensure that they are following the guidelines set in the contract.
8. Address the Issue of Sexting
Sexting, the act of sending or receiving sexually explicit messages or images, is a growing concern among teenagers. The phone contract should explicitly state that sexting is not allowed and the severe consequences that come with it.
9. Encourage Open Communication
The phone contract should emphasize the importance of open communication between parents and teenagers. This includes discussing any concerns or issues that may arise while using the phone.
10. Sign and Date the Contract
To make the phone contract official, both parents and teenagers should sign and date it. This will show that both parties have agreed to the terms and conditions outlined in the contract.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a printable phone contract for teenagers is a valuable tool for both parents and teenagers. It can help set boundaries, teach responsible phone usage, and open lines of communication between parents and teenagers. By including key elements such as guidelines for phone usage, consequences for breaking the rules, and emphasizing the importance of cyber safety and phone etiquette, parents can ensure that their teenager is using their phone responsibly. The phone contract should be revisited and revised as needed to adapt to the changing digital landscape and address any concerns that may arise. With a phone contract in place, parents can feel more at ease while giving their teenager a cell phone and teenagers can learn to use their phones responsibly.