Frequently Asked Elf Questions

The Head Elf reports directly to Santa Claus, and has been in charge of all elf activity for hundreds of years. One of the oldest elves in the North Pole, the Head Elf knows more than anyone about Christmas and all the scout elves. If you need help with your Elf on the Shelf, or would like to understand the tradition better, you can read some frequently asked questions here.

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

Christmas magic is very fragile, and if a scout elf is touched it may lose its magic. If your elf has been touched, please sprinkle a little cinnamon beside him or her before you go to bed; cinnamon is like vitamins for elves, and it helps them get back to the North Pole.  Once they arrive, the North Pole E.R. doctors will check them out.

What if my elf hasn’t moved?

Sometimes your elf will have a favorite spot, if it hasn’t moved – it’s probably in one of its favorite spots!

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

There are so many things that need to be done in the North Pole in the months before the holidays, and Santa needs all of his elves to help!

What does my elf tell Santa?

Your Elf reports to Santa when you’ve been naughty and nice. If you do your chores, he tells Santa how good of a helper you are. When you don’t share your toys with your little sister, he lets Santa know too! He’s always watching over you.

How does the elf fly to and from the North Pole every night?

When you named your elf, magic gave him the ability to fly. Now, each night, your elf uses that magic to get to the North Pole and back before you wake up. Elves are very fast because they don’t want to miss anything while they visit your house!

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

Your elf goes to the North Pole each and every night during the holiday season so he won’t forget a single detail from the day to tell Santa. This helps Santa and your elf keep an up-to-date daily record of when you’re good and bad.