Elf on the Shelf Arrival Scavenger Hunt

It’s that time of year when Elf on the Shelf arrives again! If you need Elf on the Shelf arrival ideas grab my Elf on the Shelf Arrival Scavenger Hunt!

Elf on the Shelf Arrival Scavenger Hunt

Elf on the Shelf returning is a big deal in our house like many others. The arrival of Elf on the Shelf is looked forward to by lots of kids and this Elf on the Shelf Arrival Scavenger Hunt will help you make it special!

If this is your first year with Elf on the Shelf, don’t forget to grab an Elf on the Shelf Adoption Certificate to place with your elf at the end of the Elf on the Shelf scavenger hunt.

Clues for Elf on the Shelf Arrival Scavenger Hunt

Below I have written out the clues for the Elf on the Shelf Arrival Scavenger Hunt. I also included where to hide each clue as well as fun extra ideas to go with them. You can print the full list of clues at the end of the post.

Clue #1
It’s been so long since I last saw you. I’m excited to be back!
I made a game of my return so you can follow my track.
Each clue will lead you closer to me.
The next one is by a brightly lit tree!

Where to Hide Clue 1: This is the first clue so you’ll want to set it somewhere your child will see right away.

Clue #2
Holly Jolly you found it! But I’m no longer here.
I was thirsty from my long journey and had to fill my cup with cheer!

Where to Hide Clue 2: Somewhere on or under the Christmas tree.
Fun Idea: Hang the clue with the new Elf on the Shelf Ornament for 2021 (Amazon Affiliate)

Clue #3
Hot cocoa is yummy in my tummy and makes me want to play.
I could hang out with your dolls and toys all day!

Where to Hide Clue 3: In with your mugs or hot chocolate.
Fun Idea: Leave mini marshmallows around the clue and a dusting of hot cocoa or use this Craving Hot Cocoa Idea

Clue #4
We had a lot of fun but I had to wash up and couldn’t stay long.
Do I get in the washer or dryer first? I hope I don’t pick wrong!

Where to Hide Clue 4: With your child’s toys or dolls.
Fun Idea: Set up your child’s toys like they were playing with Elf on the Shelf

Clue #5
Whew that was close, but I chose the right one!
Then I put myself away like the towels when they are done.

Where to Hide Clue 5: In the Dryer
Fun Idea: Write the next clue on the dryer in Expo Marker

Clue #6
All this running made me tired. This was a great place to rest.
My energy came back so I jumped in here in case you need help on a test.

Where to Hide Clue 6: In the closet or drawer with your towels
Fun Idea: Place a cotton ball and tissue with the clue like Elf on the Shelf was napping or grab one of these Elf on the Shelf Sleeping Bags (Amazon Affiliate) to use again and again!

Clue #7
I’m teasing! I know elves can’t sneak off to school.
We can sneak into this place where it’s nice and icy cool.

Where to Hide Clue 7: In your child’s backpack
Fun Idea: Put these Printable Elf on the Shelf Sized Books inside with the clue.

Clue #8
It’s freezing in here and reminded me of home at the North Pole.
But now I’m ready to see you so I’m waiting with something you use in your cereal bowl.

Where to Hide Clue 8: In the Freezer
Fun Idea: If you have snow in our area, place little snowballs inside the freezer or move things around or take them out of boxes like he elf was being mischievous

Finally, place your Elf on the Shelf either with or inside one of your cereal boxes or in the drawer with your spoons. For extra fun, have a box of Kellogg’s New Elf on the Shelf Cereal waiting with the clue!