How Elf on the Shelf activities can inspire kindness this holiday season

Every December, families brace themselves for the arrival of the Elf on the Shelf, a special visitor from the North Pole that comes with magical (and sometimes mischievous) surprises. While these elves are known for their silly nature, they can also inspire kindness, gratitude and connection in classrooms or homes.

Here are some ways your Elf on the Shelf can spread kindness this holiday season.

1. Kindness challenges. Every day, your elf can present a special challenge to the members of your home or the students in your classroom. These tasks can be as simple as “give 3 compliments,” “high five 5 new friends,” etc. This can be expanded by earning a strip for every challenge completed and creating a kindness chain.

2. Kindness storytime. The elf can arrive with a new bedtime story that promotes kindness. “The Giving Snowman,” “The Good Egg” — these are all great examples of books to read with your elf!

3. Elf-inspired moments with family. Kindness elves can plan cozy family activities to promote quality time together. Some examples include a hot cocoa night, a family board game, baking cookies for neighbors, crafting ornaments, etc.

4. Kindness bingo. Your elf can arrive with a bingo card filled with random acts of kindness. Your child or student’s task would be to complete the card!

5. Compliment catcher. The elf arrives with a mountain of snowflakes! Children and students are encouraged to write compliments for others on these and pass them out as a festive, kind gesture!

What are some ways your elves have promoted kindness at home or in your classroom? Share them with us on the Arizona PBS Kids Facebook page!

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About the author

Marissa Will is the mother of two, Olivia (8) and Logan (6). Writing was her first passion: she’s a freelance writer and a Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication alumna. Will is currently educating the future leaders of tomorrow: She has spent the past nine years educating third grade with a master’s degree in elementary education from Northern Arizona University-Yuma.