Elf on the Shelf Inspired Family Movie and Game Night Ideas + Printables

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Elf on the Shelf Inspired Family Movie and Game Night Ideas + Printables

Every year we welcome back our elf, Oboe, and spend the next month or so watching the kids thoroughly enjoy the daily task of finding him. After almost a decade of participating in the Elf on the Shelf, I can say that our elf’s style varies from not moving for a couple days in a row, to making mischief or perhaps even leaving the kids a little treat. Many years Oboe brings the annual toy advent calendar, which is always a lot of fun.

One thing is certain: Oboe visits our family during the time of year when we are busier than any other season. November and December find me working round the clock to post deal after deal on this site. Then add in the many activities that we enjoy, from holiday parties to seeing Santa come round on the fire truck. Some years Lily is in a holiday show, most years there’s a preschool Christmas show to attend. We have Lily’s orchestra concert, her band concert AND a chorus concert this year, as the list just grows and grows.

Knowing how busy and how fully-loaded our holiday season ALWAYS seems to be, I thought it would be fun to put together a round up of elf ideas that all focus on one thing: quality family time. When things kick into crazy gear around here, I can’t tell you how much I love a good old fashioned family game night or movie night. The premise is simple: everyone is home and we can spend some time relaxing and just “being.” Toss in some fun snacks, maybe a new movie or board game, and you have the makings for a great night.

Check out these fun ideas for letting your elf deliver the necessary supplies (or simply let him or her plant the idea) for a family night at your house!