Forgot to move the elf? 15 excuses kids believe

Quick excuses to say in the morning

1. "It loved that spot so much it stayed."
2. "It had a long flight to the North Pole and back."
3. "It was watching someone very closely."
4. "Someone touched it, so its magic was low." See what to do if someone touches the elf.
5. "It was too cold to fly last night."
6. "It moved, and then it came back to the same spot."
7. "Santa asked it to stay for a special report."
8. "It was hiding from the cat."
9. "It moved in a very small way. Can you find what changed?"
10. "It stayed up late playing and fell asleep."

Notes the elf can leave the next night

11. "Sorry! I had a long meeting with Santa."
12. "I was too tired to move. Thank you for being patient."
13. "I stayed to see who was being kind. You were!"
14. "My magic needed a rest. A sprinkle of cinnamon helped."
15. "I moved, but I forgot to tell you. Tonight I will pick a big spot!"

Make it up the next night

Pick a bigger idea for the next night. There are quick ones in 30 easy Christmas elf ideas for busy nights.

How to remember

• Set a daily phone alarm for 9 pm with the word "elf."
• Keep the next three ideas ready on a sticky note.
• Take turns with your partner, one night each.

Questions

What do you say if the elf didn't move?

Say it loved the spot, was tired after a long flight, or stayed to watch someone closely. Kids accept a simple answer.

Is it OK to skip moving the elf some nights?

Yes. Many families skip nights. A short note from the elf covers it.

What if the kids are upset the elf didn't move?

Stay calm and give one simple reason. Then make the next night's spot a fun one.

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.