Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions:

What is The Elf on the Shelf®: A Christmas Tradition?

The Elf on the Shelf®: A Christmas Tradition is a magical story that explains how Santa’s Scout Elves help him manage his naughty and nice lists. Each book comes as part of a box set that also includes one of Santa’s Scout Elves, whose job is to fly back to the North Pole to report to Santa every night. Upon returning from their nightly journeys, the Scout Elves hide and wait for children to find them! This box set includes a hardbound children’s book and one of Santa’s special Scout Elves. Learn More

What is Elf Pets®: A Reindeer Tradition?

In this magical tale, more Christmas spirit is needed to make Santa’s sleigh soar, so Santa asks for help from his Elf Pets® Reindeer and children who truly believe in the magic of Christmas! By adopting one of these special pets, families can help build the faith, hope and love Santa needs to deliver presents on Christmas Eve! Each box set includes the Elf Pets®: A Reindeer Tradition storybook and one of Santa’s special reindeer. Learn More

Scout Elf Questions:

When does my scout elf arrive?

The Elf on the Shelf® can arrive anytime during the holidays, but typically he or she will arrive at the beginning of your family’s holiday celebrations and return to the North Pole with Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. 

How does my scout elf receive a name?

Read The Elf on the Shelf®: A Christmas Tradition with your family after you adopt a Scout Elf, then you can choose a name for him or her—that’s how the elf will receive the Christmas magic he or she needs to fly to the North Pole to report to Santa every night! You can name your Scout Elf anything you please!

How can I adopt a scout elf?

Scout Elves and Elf Pets® Reindeer come from special adoption centres that Santa has approved in order to make sure that every Scout Elf and reindeer receives a good home. Much like you would go to the store to adopt a pet, your Elf on the Shelf® and Elf Pets® can be adopted, too. To find an adoption centre near you, click here. Remember to call ahead to make sure the elves and reindeer are ready for adoption!

What should I do if my scout elf is touched by mistake?

Christmas magic is very fragile, and if Scout Elves are touched they may lose their magic.

Here are a few suggestions to help your elf get their magic back.

1. Write a note to your elf or Santa apologising for touching your elf. This is the most effective way to help revive your Scout Elf.
2. Sprinkle a little cinnamon next to your elf! Cinnamon is like vitamins for your elf. It will help them get back to the North Pole where the elf doctors can check them out!
3. Elves love Christmas carols! Try singing one with your family.

What if my scout elf hasn’t moved?

Don’t worry. Sometimes your elf will have a favourite spot they like to return to day after day, just like you might have a favourite chair or a spot on the couch. If the elf hasn’t moved, they are probably just returning to one of their favourite spots!

Why doesn’t my scout elf stay with me all year?

The Scout Elves must return to the North Pole to help Santa and Mrs. Claus get ready for Christmas next year. Santa needs all the help he can get! Scout Elves also use the time to share stories, complete flight training and more!

What does my scout elf tell Santa?

Your Scout Elf tells Santa all sorts of things—mostly about the kind and helpful things you and your family do every day! 

Why does my scout elf go to the North Pole every night?

Scout Elves go to the North Pole each and every night during the holiday season so they won’t forget a single detail from the day to tell Santa. This helps Santa and your Scout Elf keep the most up-to-date record of what you and your family have been up to!