The festive season in the UK is full of beloved traditions, from advent calendars filled with chocolates to enjoying a delicious Christmas pudding by the tree. But one magical tradition is increasingly capturing the hearts and imaginations of families all over the UK: The Elf on the Shelf®.
If you’ve spotted these cheerful elves on Instagram and TikTok or in your local toy shop and want to know what the buzz is all about, this guide is for you. So, if you’re looking to add a sprinkle of extra magic to your December, here’s your complete UK guide to adopting your very own Scout Elf.
*The Elf on the Shelf® Polar Props™ Polar Pizza Truck sold separately*
What is The Elf on the Shelf®?
Santa’s Scout Elves are magical elves sent from the North Pole. At the heart of this tradition is a Scout Elf, sent by Santa himself to help manage his Nice List by observing children’s behaviour and reporting back to him each night.
When Scout Elves visit homes, they find a place to sit and watch all day long. Each night, they fly to the North Pole to report to Santa all the nice things a family has done, that’s how Santa knows how to craft his nice list!
Each Scout Elf arrives in a beautifully presented keepsake box set, which includes:
- A festive, high-quality storybook that explains your elf’s special mission and North Pole magic.
- An official adoption certificate, ready for your family to personalise.
- And, of course, your very own Scout Elf, ready to begin a month of Christmas cheer and adventures!
The best part? Children love being on their best behaviour while their elf is around, just to make sure they stay on Santa’s Nice List!
Why Is It Called a “Scout Elf”?
That’s what Father Christmas calls them, because Scout Elves are specially chosen to scout out all the lovely (and sometimes cheeky!) behaviour going on in homes during the Christmas season.
They fly back to the North Pole each night to keep Santa in the loop, so he knows exactly who belongs on the Nice List.
How Do I Get Started?
It’s as easy as 1, 2, 3 and it starts with a sprinkle of Christmas magic:
- Adopt an official Scout Elf from our trusted UK site or at an authorised UK retailer.
- Read the illustrated Elf on the Shelf® storybook together as a family, it’s included inside the keepsake adoption box.
- Pick a magical name for your elf. This is the moment that activates their North Pole magic!
And Bob’s your uncle! You’ll soon have a brand-new festive tradition that the kids will look forward to each and every Christmas!
Elf Do’s & Don’ts
There are a few special instructions from Santa, but they’re very important for keeping your elf’s Christmas magic strong:
- No touching the elf! If your Scout Elf is handled, they might lose their magic and won’t be able to fly back to Santa.
- Scout Elves can’t talk, but they’re brilliant listeners. Your little ones can share Christmas wishes, secrets, or kind thoughts with their elf every day.
- On Christmas Eve, your elf must return to the North Pole to help Santa load the sleigh and prepare for the big night ahead.
Don’t worry, your elf will be back next year, ready for more festive fun.
What Happens Next?
Now the real fun begins! Each morning in December, your Scout Elf will appear in a brand-new spot around your home. This daily surprise becomes a treasured part of the family morning routine.
These playful setups are called “Elf ideas”, and they range from simple and sweet 3-minute setups to silly and spectacular ones! These daily elf antics are what make the tradition so special, and perfect for creating magical childhood memories.
Still wondering “What is The Elf on the Shelf®?“, brush up on your North Pole Knowledge, or follow us on social media to see all of the Scout Elves’ adventures this season!
Anything Else I Should Know?
Probably! Luckily, the elves have already thought ahead. Here are answers to the most common questions parents ask during their elf’s visit.
