Someone touched the elf! What to do next
The short answer
Stay calm and make it easy to fix. Most families say a sprinkle of cinnamon brings the elf's magic back, or the child writes a short sorry note to Santa. Leave it by the elf. The next morning the elf has moved, so the kids know the magic came back.
Why kids worry
The story says the elf loses its magic if someone touches it, so it cannot fly back to the North Pole. A child who touched it, even by accident, can get very upset. The fix should be quick.
Ways to bring the magic back
- Cinnamon. Sprinkle a little next to the elf. Many families say elves love it.
- A sorry note. The child writes or draws "Sorry, it was an accident" for Santa.
- A song. Sing a Christmas song to the elf before bed.
- Sleep on it. The elf rests one night and is fine in the morning.
- A letter from the elf. The next morning the elf leaves a note: "Thank you! My magic is back."
What to say
- "It was an accident. Santa knows that."
- "Let's fix it together."
- "The elf will be OK by morning."
If the elf has to move
Sometimes the elf is somewhere it cannot stay, like the floor or a toddler's reach. Use oven mitts, tongs or a spoon, and say the magic stays safe when you do not use your hands.
More ideas: 30 easy Christmas elf ideas for busy nights.
Questions
What happens if you touch the elf?
The story says the elf loses its magic. Families bring it back with cinnamon, a sorry note or one night of rest.
Does cinnamon really bring the elf's magic back?
It is a family tradition, not a rule. Many parents use it because it is quick and kids like it.
Can a pet touching the elf take away its magic?
Most families say no, or that a sprinkle of cinnamon fixes it the same way.
Do these ideas work with The Elf on the Shelf®?
Yes. They work with any elf toy, including The Elf on the Shelf®. The Elf on the Shelf® is a trademark of CCA and B, LLC. We are not connected with it.