What Do You Do On The Last Night Of Elf On The Shelf?

What Do You Do On the Last Night of Elf on the Shelf?

As the holiday season draws to a close, many families engage in the beloved tradition of Elf on the Shelf. This whimsical pastime involves hiding an elf doll in different locations around the house, providing a mischievous and magical touch to the countdown to Christmas. However, when the final days approach, the question arises: what should you do on the last night of Elf on the Shelf? This article delves into this topic, exploring creative and meaningful ways to bid farewell to this festive harbinger.

Symbolic Departures

One traditional approach is to have the Elf on the Shelf return to the North Pole. This can be staged by creating a small airplane or sleigh using craft supplies and placing the elf inside. The next morning, your children can wake up to find a letter from the elf, explaining that he or she has embarked on a journey back home. This provides a sense of closure and leaves room for the anticipation of their return next year.

Festive Farewell

For a more celebratory departure, consider hosting a small farewell party for the Elf on the Shelf. This can include singing songs, reading stories, and sharing festive treats. Encourage your children to share their favorite memories of the elf’s antics and express their appreciation for their magical presence.

Reflective Closure

Use the last night of Elf on the Shelf as an opportunity for reflection. Encourage your children to think about what the elf has taught them about the spirit of Christmas and the values of kindness, generosity, and joy. They can write letters to the elf, expressing their gratitude and sharing their hopes for the year ahead.

Personalized Traditions

In addition to these classic options, you can create your own personalized traditions for the last night of Elf on the Shelf. Some families have the elf leave a special gift or treat for each child. Others have the elf host a “goodbye tea party” with the other toys in the house. The possibilities are endless and should be tailored to your family’s preferences and traditions.

Emotional Impact

The last night of Elf on the Shelf can evoke a range of emotions in children. For some, it may bring a sense of sadness or loss as they bid farewell to their playful companion. Others may feel a sense of excitement and anticipation for the upcoming Christmas Day. It is important to be sensitive to your children’s emotions and provide a supportive and understanding environment.

Encourage Storytelling

Encourage your children to use the last night of Elf on the Shelf as an opportunity to tell stories about their adventures with the elf. This can help them to process their emotions and create lasting memories of this magical experience.

Preserve the Magic

Once the elf has departed, you can preserve the magic by creating a scrapbook or photo album to document the elf’s adventures. This will allow your children to revisit their memories and relive the joy of Elf on the Shelf for years to come.

Questions and Answers

Q1: What is the traditional way to say goodbye to the Elf on the Shelf?
A1: Having the elf return to the North Pole by airplane or sleigh.

Q2: What is an alternative to the traditional farewell?
A2: Hosting a festive farewell party for the elf.

Q3: How can I use the last night of Elf on the Shelf to encourage reflection?
A3: Encourage your children to write letters to the elf, expressing their gratitude and sharing their hopes for the future.

Q4: How can I preserve the magic of Elf on the Shelf after the elf has departed?
A4: Create a scrapbook or photo album to document the elf’s adventures.

Q5: What are some personalized traditions that families have for the last night of Elf on the Shelf?
A5: Leaving a special gift or treat from the elf, hosting a “goodbye tea party,” or writing a poem or song about the elf.