It’s almost elf season, and you know what that means. Your news feeds are going to be cluttered with pictures of Elfie, Jingles, and Snowflake, painstakingly posing in mini bathtubs filled with marshmallows and making powdered sugar snow angels on the counter, all accompanied by descriptions of their vacation shenanigans.
But if you’re like me and can’t commit to creating elf scenarios every night, or if you just want something a little unique this year, Elf on the Shelf’s alternatives are the way to go this vacation season. So, if you’re ready to ditch the elf - or don’t even want to start the tradition - these 12 alternatives offer equally catchy names, equally charming stories and activities that will keep your kids entertained all winter long. Check them out below.
1. The Reindeer Here
Created by a father who wanted his daughter to have a Christmas tradition without the scary eyes of an elf, Reindeer in Here is an alternative to the elf on the shelf for kids that encourages inclusion.
Buy: The Reindeer Here
2. Mensch on a Bench
Let the Mensch hold a Shamash candle each day, and each night use it to light the menorah. It also encourages children to spend one night of Hanukkah giving gifts to others.
Buy: Mensch on a Bench
3. Olaf Hide and Seek from Frozen
With an adorable hide-and-seek themed storybook and an included Olaf plush toy, your little Frozen fan will love this elf alternative. The best part: all you have to do is hide him!
Buy: Olaf Hide and Seek from Frozen
4. North Pole Ninjas: MISSION: Christmas!
This book takes a little effort, but not the kind that requires you to scour Pinterest or rack your brain. Instead, the storybook comes with a plush “sensei” who will guide your kids through the ninjas’ special missions (50 are included).
Buy: North Pole Ninjas: MISSION: Christmas!
5. Shiraz on the Shelf
Sorry kids, this alternative is for adults. Place the wine glass every night hoping someone will fill it - or make it yourself and sip it while laughing at the included storybook.
Buy: Shiraz on the Shelf
6. Santa’s Lazy Gnome
Like the elf, the lazy gnome tells Santa whether your child has been naughty or nice. But where the elf needs to constantly change places, the lazy gnome prefers to stay in one place the entire time he’s there - outstanding!
Buy: Santa’s Lazy Gnome
7. Holiday Mischief With Stitch Set
Every Disney fan knows Stitch can get into a little trouble from time to time. Parents can help Stitch get into mischief (like the Elf) around the house while their kids are sleeping.
Buy: Holiday Mischief With Stitch Set
8. The Little Lamb of Bethlehem
Besides placing it on a shelf, families can use their lamb to encourage children to read Bible verses, take part in acts of kindness, or take part in fun Christmas activities.
Buy: The Little Lamb of Bethlehem
9. The North Pole Gnome: Santa’s New Assistant
If you’re tired of having an elf watching your every move, opt for this gnome. At the end of the night, this alternative will sleep in your child’s Christmas stocking to report to the North Pole.
Buy: The North Pole Gnome: Santa’s New Assistant
10. Snoop on a stoop
If you don’t have kids but still want to take part in the holiday tradition, this Snoop on a Stoop will bring laughter and joy to any home.
Buy: Snoop on a stoop
11. Santa Cam Ornament
Instead of having to move your elf to your shelf every night, opt for an ornament with a Santa spy cam that will convince the kids to behave since Santa is “watching”.
Buy: Santa Cam Ornament
12. Star from afar
This religious vacation game allows your child to play hide-and-seek like they would with the elf on the shelf. Parents hide the star at night, and in the morning, the kids find it and move the three wise men to it.
Buy: Star from afar
