We all know the golden rule of having a Scout Elf in the house, you mustn’t touch them, or they might lose their Christmas magic. But what happens if your elf takes a tumble, lands in a drawer of bits and bobs, or ends up in a bit of a sticky situation? 

It’s a question that comes up in many British households during December, especially when curious pets or excited little ones get a bit too close. So, can grown-ups touch The Elf on the Shelf®? Let’s look at what Father Christmas has to say. 

Family of four in kitchen stacking cubes with Scout Elf next to them.

The General Rule 

Santa advises that no member of the family, grown-ups included, should touch a Scout Elf, as this helps keep their magical powers intact. After all, your elf needs that magic to fly back to the North Pole each night and report into Santa’s workshop. 

However, there are a few rare situations where an adult may need to step in to help an elf safely. If this happens, it must be done with extra care, and using special tools approved by the North Pole. 

When Can Adults Lend a Helping Hand? 

Here are the rare but magical moments when a grown-up might be allowed to help out using kitchen tongs or oven gloves, to avoid direct contact and keep the magic as strong as ever. 

1. Your Elf Took a Tumble 

Sometimes Scout Elves return from a long snowy flight feeling a bit weary, and they might doze off and fall from their shelf. If your elf has landed on the floor or somewhere unsafe, an adult may gently return them to a cosy perch using tongs or pot holders. 

2. A Pet Spotted the Elf 

Scout Elves are brilliant at picking creative hiding spots, but sometimes, they land in a dog’s favourite napping zone or within paw’s reach of the cat. In this case, it’s fine for an adult to move the elf somewhere safer, so pets (and elves) don’t end up startled or tangled in tinsel. 

3. The Elf Lost Their Balance 

Some perches are a bit too wobbly, even for a nimble Scout Elf. If they’ve toppled off a narrow ledge or slippery windowsill, an adult can use tongs to place them back upright, ready for the next day’s magic. 

4. The Elf Made a Bit of a Mess 

Some elves love to get carried away with their creativity. If your elf’s idea turned into a full-blown flour explosion or toilet-roll mountain, parents can tidy the scene with care, especially if little ones need to help clean up afterwards. 

Scout elf making snow angels in red and green sprinkles

5. The Elf Landed on Something You Need 

Has your Scout Elf made themselves comfy in the school bag, bathroom sink or on top of your child’s winter coat? If so, parents may gently relocate them so the morning routine can go on, and the elf can continue their North Pole duties undisturbed. 

6. The Elf Ended Up Somewhere Damp or Delicate 

Occasionally, elves try to be extra clever and accidentally land in a puddle, a jar of marmalade or cup of tea. If your elf is in water or food, it’s perfectly acceptable for an adult to move them carefully to a dry, clean spot using Santa-approved tools. 

Still Worried About Lost Magic? 

Even with the best planning, Scout Elves sometimes need a bit of help from trusted grown-ups. These special cases remind us that magic is everywhere, it just needs a little belief, some quick thinking, and perhaps a pair of oven mitts!

If your family is constantly on the go there’s good news from the North Pole! Santa has given The Elf on the Shelf Scout Elf special permission to travel with The Elf on the Shelf® Scout Elf Carrier, so you never have to miss another moment together. When you’re ready to head out, check out these take-along extras, and get ready to make your best memories yet.

If your little one is worried their elf might have lost some magic, even if an adult used tongs, don’t fret. Here are three ways your family can renew your Scout Elf’s magic in a dash!